New sway bar install, next coilovers
Posted: Wed Feb 15, 2012 6:56 pm
I am a new MX-5 owner. I have a 2006 GT with 6AT. I have discovered in the three months of ownership the wonderful world of after market accessories and upgrades for the Miata. I would also like to thank Brian for his advice on purchasing RB sway bars. I bought a pair last week and finally had the chance to install them today. I had a bit of a struggle with the front one since I was working alone, but finally got it in place, the rear was very easy. Put the wheels back on and went for a ride. Oh, my the car feels like it is on rails, this is a great improvement for $300 and four hours of my time. I had installed the front strut brace (Cobalt) back in December when they were on sale, I thought there was a small improvement, but for the money the RB sways over the factory sways is night and day.
My next step is to replace the factory shocks, so open the wallet and go for the Ohlins. I do have a couple of questions. I am strictly a street car person. I realize the front will be lower and new end links are necessary. Also in 8000 to 10000 miles I will be needing new tires and I would like to go to 215/45/17 or 225/45/17. I will probably stay with the factory rims, though maybe new wheels will be in my future by then. I believe I would stay with either 7" or 7.5" wide rims.
My main question is will the above tires and wheels work with the Ohlins coilovers.
So for Ohlins coilovers, what endlinks for the front of the car. I would also like to replace the rear endlinks at the same time, same question.
I understand that the rear coilovers will need the tophat from the rear factory shocks. Is it easier to rent a spring compressor to remove the old hats for reuse or just buy new hats. Also is it just the hats that are needed or some additional parts.
Finally as far as adjustments go can you preset them before installing or in order to install the Ohlins does everything need to be at its shortest dimension.
I know settings and rides are individual, however is there a setting for all four Ohlins that would be ball park for a street ride Miata.
Thanks
David in Nashvegas
My next step is to replace the factory shocks, so open the wallet and go for the Ohlins. I do have a couple of questions. I am strictly a street car person. I realize the front will be lower and new end links are necessary. Also in 8000 to 10000 miles I will be needing new tires and I would like to go to 215/45/17 or 225/45/17. I will probably stay with the factory rims, though maybe new wheels will be in my future by then. I believe I would stay with either 7" or 7.5" wide rims.
My main question is will the above tires and wheels work with the Ohlins coilovers.
So for Ohlins coilovers, what endlinks for the front of the car. I would also like to replace the rear endlinks at the same time, same question.
I understand that the rear coilovers will need the tophat from the rear factory shocks. Is it easier to rent a spring compressor to remove the old hats for reuse or just buy new hats. Also is it just the hats that are needed or some additional parts.
Finally as far as adjustments go can you preset them before installing or in order to install the Ohlins does everything need to be at its shortest dimension.
I know settings and rides are individual, however is there a setting for all four Ohlins that would be ball park for a street ride Miata.
Thanks
David in Nashvegas