Are coil overs better handling

BLU135i · 02-21-2014, 06:06 AM

So better handling than seperate springs and shocks/struts? Or only that you can lower.

Fidiman · 02-21-2014, 06:27 AM

Normally better handling because of a stiffer springs and dampers ratio

Kgolf31 · 02-21-2014, 06:39 AM

Typically they are better because the dampers are valved according to the spring rates.

In addition, depending on what you get, you can adjust Rebound (sprung weight) and compression (unsprung weight) of the car to dial in the handling characteristics you want

MightyMouseTech · 02-21-2014, 06:51 AM

The only real difference, by definition, between a coil over and a set spring and strut is that you can adjust the ride height easier.

TheSt|G · 02-21-2014, 08:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MightyMouseTech

The only real difference, by definition, between a coil over and a set spring and strut is that you can adjust the ride height easier.

Realistically though, they generally offer a much higher degree of adjustability. That being said, there are plenty of coilovers like ST and BC that just check the box of using the word "coilover". And then there are others like Broadway Static that are designed for anything but performance.

MightyMouseTech · 02-21-2014, 08:32 AM

Same is true for non-coilovers. You can have static ride height shocks/struts that have all the same quality and adjustability, except for the ride height. To make any shock a coil over, all you have to do is add a threaded perch.

TheSt|G · 02-21-2014, 09:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MightyMouseTech

Same is true for non-coilovers. You can have static ride height shocks/struts that have all the same quality and adjustability, except for the ride height. To make any shock a coil over, all you have to do is add a threaded perch.

I understand the concept, my point is that in the general market it is a bit harder to find a strut on its own with adjustable compression and rebound that is tailored for heavier weight springs.

Also, on the quality perspective, not quite. TCK struts might be Koni struts, but they are built to a different standard than the normal yellows. The shaft, for example, is generally 20% thicker than the standard part.

02-21-2014, 06:06 AM	#1
BLU135i Senior Chief Petty Officer USN 106 Rep 501 Posts Drives: X5 35d Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Haze Grey iTrader: (1)	Are coil overs better handling So better handling than seperate springs and shocks/struts? Or only that you can lower.
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02-21-2014, 06:27 AM	#2
Fidiman Captain 113 Rep 614 Posts Drives: BMW 120d e82 M Sportpaket Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: France iTrader: (0) Garage List 2010 120d E82 [10.00]	Normally better handling because of a stiffer springs and dampers ratio __________________ M Sport package, Stage 1, CDV, BMC airfilter, VMR vb3, ST XTA, BMW Performance stuff, M3 arms, E93 M3 anti-roll bars F and R, ... French community of 1 and 2 Series: One-Two-Bimmers
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02-21-2014, 06:39 AM	#3
Kgolf31 Brigadier General 460 Rep 4,531 Posts Drives: 2007 Z4MC, 2012 128i Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Ohio iTrader: (4)	Typically they are better because the dampers are valved according to the spring rates. In addition, depending on what you get, you can adjust Rebound (sprung weight) and compression (unsprung weight) of the car to dial in the handling characteristics you want
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02-21-2014, 06:51 AM	#4
MightyMouseTech Major General 4338 Rep 6,196 Posts Drives: 13 135i 6MT LeMans Blue MSport Join Date: Feb 2013 Location: Ottawa, Canada iTrader: (0)	The only real difference, by definition, between a coil over and a set spring and strut is that you can adjust the ride height easier.
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02-21-2014, 08:32 AM	#6
MightyMouseTech Major General 4338 Rep 6,196 Posts Drives: 13 135i 6MT LeMans Blue MSport Join Date: Feb 2013 Location: Ottawa, Canada iTrader: (0)	Same is true for non-coilovers. You can have static ride height shocks/struts that have all the same quality and adjustability, except for the ride height. To make any shock a coil over, all you have to do is add a threaded perch.
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