Evo Suspension Tuning: Setting Damping and Ride Height for Street and Track Use

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The tuning of suspension systems is critical for achieving optimal performance in both street and track conditions. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, known for its rally heritage, offers various adjustments to enhance driving experience. This article focuses on suspension damping and ride height settings tailored for both environments.

Understanding Suspension Components

Before diving into tuning, it’s essential to understand the key components of the suspension system:

  • Shocks/Struts: Control the damping of the suspension, affecting ride quality and handling.
  • Springs: Support the vehicle’s weight and determine ride height.
  • Anti-roll bars: Reduce body roll during cornering.

Setting Damping for Street Use

For street driving, comfort is paramount. The damping settings should prioritize ride quality while still providing adequate handling. Here’s how to set it:

  • Compression Damping: Set to a softer setting to absorb bumps and potholes.
  • Rebound Damping: Adjust to a moderate level to prevent excessive bouncing after compression.
  • Testing: Take the vehicle for a test drive to evaluate comfort and adjust accordingly.

While settings can vary based on personal preference and specific suspension setups, a good starting point is:

  • Compression: 10 clicks from full soft
  • Rebound: 8 clicks from full soft

Setting Damping for Track Use

On the track, the focus shifts to performance and handling. Here’s how to adjust damping for optimal track performance:

  • Compression Damping: Increase stiffness to reduce body roll and improve cornering stability.
  • Rebound Damping: Increase to control the spring’s return and maintain tire contact with the track.
  • Testing: Conduct multiple laps to assess handling and make incremental adjustments.

A suitable starting point for track settings could be:

  • Compression: 5 clicks from full stiff
  • Rebound: 10 clicks from full stiff

Setting Ride Height

Adjusting ride height is crucial for both aesthetics and performance. The right height can improve handling and reduce drag. Here’s how to set it:

  • Street Use: Aim for a moderate ride height to balance comfort and handling.
  • Track Use: Lower the ride height to improve aerodynamics and center of gravity.

General recommendations for ride height adjustments are:

  • Street: 15-20mm lower than factory settings
  • Track: 25-30mm lower than factory settings

Final Considerations

When tuning suspension for the Evo, consider the following:

  • Personal Preference: Adjust settings based on your driving style and comfort level.
  • Environment: Track conditions can vary; be prepared to tweak settings accordingly.
  • Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain suspension components for optimal performance.

By carefully adjusting damping and ride height, you can significantly enhance the performance of your Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, whether on the street or the track. Happy tuning!