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Upgrading your Toyota GR86 with aftermarket coilovers is one of the best modifications you can make to enhance both handling and ride quality. For around $1,500, you can transform your driving experience, making it more enjoyable and responsive on the road or track.
What Are Coilovers?
Coilovers combine the shock absorber and spring into a single unit, allowing for adjustable ride height and damping settings. This flexibility enables drivers to customize their vehicle’s suspension to their specific needs and preferences.
Benefits of Installing Coilovers
- Improved Handling: Coilovers provide better cornering stability and reduced body roll.
- Adjustable Ride Height: You can lower or raise your vehicle for aesthetic or performance reasons.
- Enhanced Comfort: Many coilovers are designed to improve ride quality while maintaining performance.
- Customization: Adjust damping settings to suit your driving style and conditions.
Choosing the Right Coilovers for Your GR86
When selecting coilovers for your Toyota GR86, consider the following factors:
- Brand Reputation: Research reputable brands known for quality and performance.
- Adjustability: Look for coilovers that offer both height and damping adjustments.
- Spring Rates: Choose spring rates that match your driving style, whether it’s daily driving or track use.
- Budget: Set a budget and compare options within that range.
Installation Process
Installing coilovers on your GR86 can be a rewarding DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Tools and Materials Needed
- Coilover kit
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Spring compressor (if needed)
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Installation
Follow these steps to install your coilovers:
- 1. Prepare Your Vehicle: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen the lug nuts on the wheels.
- 2. Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands.
- 3. Remove the Wheels: Take off the wheels to access the suspension components.
- 4. Disconnect the Old Struts: Remove any bolts connecting the struts to the knuckles and top mount.
- 5. Remove the Old Springs: If applicable, use a spring compressor to safely remove the springs from the struts.
- 6. Install the Coilovers: Position the new coilovers in place, ensuring they align correctly with the mounting points.
- 7. Adjust Ride Height: Set your desired ride height before tightening all bolts.
- 8. Reinstall Wheels: Put the wheels back on and lower the vehicle to the ground.
- 9. Final Checks: Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
Tuning Your Coilovers
After installation, tuning your coilovers is essential to achieve the best performance. Adjust the damping settings based on your driving style and road conditions. Start with the manufacturer’s recommended settings and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
Installing aftermarket coilovers on your Toyota GR86 is a fantastic way to enhance handling and ride quality for around $1,500. With the right tools, knowledge, and a bit of elbow grease, you can transform your driving experience and enjoy the benefits of a customized suspension system.