Table of Contents
Coilovers are a popular upgrade for car enthusiasts looking to enhance their vehicle’s handling and ride quality. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing and adjusting coilovers to achieve precise handling on any road.
What You Will Need
- Coilover kit
- Jack and jack stands
- Wrench set
- Sockets
- Torque wrench
- Spring compressor
- Measuring tape
- Safety glasses
Preparation
Before starting the installation, ensure you have all the necessary tools and parts. Make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and that you have sufficient lighting to work.
Put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes during the installation process.
Step 1: Lift the Vehicle
Using the jack, lift the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.
Step 2: Remove the Wheels
Using the wrench or socket, remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels. This will give you access to the suspension components.
Step 3: Remove the Old Struts
Locate the strut assembly. Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle and the top mount. Carefully take out the old strut assembly.
Step 4: Install the Coilover
Take the coilover assembly and insert it into the strut mount. Secure it with the bolts you previously removed. Make sure it is tight and properly aligned.
Step 5: Adjust the Height
Before tightening everything down, adjust the height of the coilover. Use the measuring tape to ensure both sides are even. Adjust the lower perch to achieve your desired ride height.
Step 6: Secure the Coilover
Once the height is set, use the torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures that everything is secure and safe for driving.
Step 7: Reinstall the Wheels
Place the wheels back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Once all wheels are back on, lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Step 8: Final Torque Check
With the vehicle back on the ground, perform a final torque check on all lug nuts to ensure they are secure. This is crucial for safety while driving.
Step 9: Test Drive and Adjust
Take your vehicle for a test drive to evaluate the handling. Pay attention to how the car feels on different road surfaces. If necessary, make further adjustments to the coilovers to achieve your desired handling characteristics.
Conclusion
Installing coilovers can significantly improve your vehicle’s handling and ride quality. Following these steps will help you achieve precise handling on any road. Remember to always prioritize safety and adjust your coilovers as needed for optimal performance.