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Installing H&R lowering springs on your Audi RS5 can enhance your vehicle’s handling and aesthetics. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the installation process, ensuring you achieve the best results while maintaining safety and performance.
Tools and Materials Needed
- H&R Lowering Springs
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Spring compressor
- Jack and jack stands
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Preparation Steps
Before starting the installation, ensure you have a clean workspace and all necessary tools at hand. Follow these preparation steps:
- Park your Audi RS5 on a flat surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
Step 1: Lifting the Vehicle
To access the suspension components, lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Follow these steps:
- Locate the jacking points on your Audi RS5.
- Use the jack to lift the vehicle until it is high enough to work underneath.
- Place jack stands under the vehicle for safety.
Step 2: Removing the Front Struts
To install the lowering springs, you must first remove the front struts. Follow these sub-steps:
- Remove the wheel by loosening the lug nuts and taking off the wheel.
- Disconnect the brake line bracket from the strut.
- Unbolt the strut from the steering knuckle.
- Remove the top strut mount bolts from the engine bay.
- Carefully pull the strut out of the wheel well.
Using a Spring Compressor
Once the strut is removed, use a spring compressor to safely remove the factory spring:
- Place the strut in a spring compressor.
- Compress the spring evenly on both sides.
- Remove the top strut mount and then the spring.
Step 3: Installing H&R Lowering Springs
With the factory spring removed, it’s time to install the H&R lowering springs:
- Place the H&R lowering spring onto the strut.
- Reinstall the top strut mount.
- Ensure everything is aligned correctly.
Step 4: Reinstalling the Front Struts
After installing the lowering springs, you can reinstall the struts into the vehicle:
- Carefully position the strut back into the wheel well.
- Secure the top strut mount bolts in the engine bay.
- Reattach the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Reconnect the brake line bracket.
- Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
Step 5: Removing the Rear Springs
Now, proceed to the rear springs. Follow these steps:
- Remove the rear wheels.
- Unbolt the rear struts from the lower control arm.
- Remove the top bolts from the strut in the trunk.
- Carefully pull the strut out.
Using a Spring Compressor for Rear Springs
Just like the front, use a spring compressor for the rear springs:
- Place the rear strut in the spring compressor.
- Compress the spring evenly.
- Remove the top mount and then the spring.
Step 6: Installing H&R Lowering Springs on the Rear
Install the H&R lowering springs on the rear struts:
- Place the H&R spring onto the rear strut.
- Reattach the top mount.
- Ensure everything is aligned properly.
Step 7: Reinstalling the Rear Struts
Now, reinstall the rear struts back into the vehicle:
- Position the strut back into the wheel well.
- Secure the top bolts in the trunk.
- Attach the strut to the lower control arm.
- Replace the rear wheels and tighten the lug nuts.
Step 8: Final Checks and Lowering the Vehicle
With the springs installed, it’s time to lower the vehicle and perform final checks:
- Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle with the jack.
- Check the alignment of the wheels.
- Torque all bolts to the manufacturer specifications.
- Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Installing H&R lowering springs on your Audi RS5 is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance your vehicle’s performance and appearance. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a successful installation.