Installing Bilstein B16 Pss10 Coilovers on Your Miata: a Complete Tutorial

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Installing Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers on your Miata can significantly enhance your vehicle’s handling and ride quality. This tutorial will guide you through the entire installation process step-by-step, ensuring that you can achieve the best performance from your suspension system.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Socket set
  • Wrenches
  • Torque wrench
  • Spring compressor
  • Brake cleaner
  • Lubricant

Preparation Steps

Before you begin the installation, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and vehicle. Follow these steps:

  • Park your Miata on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Gather all the tools and materials needed for the installation.
  • Remove any wheel covers or hubcaps if applicable.
  • Loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels while the car is still on the ground.

Removing the Stock Suspension

To install the Bilstein coilovers, you first need to remove the stock suspension components. Here’s how to do it:

  • Use the jack to lift the front of the Miata and secure it with jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Disconnect the sway bar links from the lower control arms.
  • Remove the brake calipers and hang them securely to avoid stress on the brake lines.
  • Take off the rotor and set it aside.
  • Unbolt the strut assembly from the top and bottom mounting points.
  • Carefully remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.

Repeat the above steps for the rear suspension, lifting the rear of the Miata and removing the rear wheels. Make sure to disconnect any components that may obstruct the removal of the rear strut assembly.

Preparing the Bilstein Coilovers

Before installing the new Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers, you need to prepare them for installation:

  • Unbox the coilovers and ensure all parts are included.
  • Set the desired ride height and damping settings on the coilovers.
  • Apply lubricant to the threads to ensure smooth adjustments.

Installing the Bilstein Coilovers

Now that your coilovers are ready, you can proceed with the installation:

  • Position the front coilover assembly in place and bolt it to the top mounting points.
  • Align the lower mounting point with the lower control arm and secure it with bolts.
  • Reconnect the sway bar links to the lower control arms.
  • Repeat the process for the rear coilovers.

Reassembling the Suspension

After installing the coilovers, it’s time to reassemble the suspension components:

  • Reinstall the brake rotors and calipers, ensuring everything is tightened properly.
  • Put the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  • Lower the car off the jack stands and onto the ground.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Final Adjustments and Testing

Once everything is reassembled, it’s crucial to make final adjustments and test the vehicle:

  • Check the ride height and make adjustments if necessary.
  • Test the damping settings to find the optimal comfort and performance balance.
  • Take the Miata for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
  • Listen for any unusual noises and check for leaks after the test drive.

Conclusion

Installing Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers on your Miata can greatly improve your driving experience. By following this tutorial, you’ll have a clear understanding of the installation process, and you’ll be able to enjoy enhanced performance and handling on the road.