5 Must-Have Features in a lowering springs
Lowering Springs Pros and Cons | Explorer ST Forum
I put about 8,000 miles on the Steeda combo. I have around 800 miles on the H&Rs now. While the Steeda lowering springs do not lower as much (especially noticeably in the rear) they absolutely 100% handle better than the H&Rs. They are more hardwired to the ground, and lateral handling and steering input is noticeably more crisp. With that said, the Steeda springs are noticeably stiffer, you feel bumps in the road more, but I wouldn't say it makes the ride harsh, unless you are going over pot holes or irregularities in the road, then it is more noticeably rough than the H&Rs.
The H&Rs are noticeably softer, and I noticed in comparison to the Steedas are a bit "floaty boaty" meaning the suspension isn't as responsive, or controlled and tends to float over bumps. It feels more like an SUV. The H&Rs are more comfortable, compliant and ride better especially on the highway. The floatiness I feel could probably be better managed with slightly stiffer shock valving. The Steedas have noticeably better lateral handling, but with less front end "unload" (weight transfer) during launches, which can make launching a bit more of a challenge with tire spin if you are drag racing.
With that said, I think the H&R springs are probably better for drag racing, while the Steedas would be the better choice on a road course. The H&Rs can sometimes "bottom out" (on road humps) in the rear (just have to go slower over speed bumps and road humps), there was no such issue with the Steedas, even with passengers.
Steeda Pros:
Better, more precise steering "feel"
Better turn in response, better steering feedback with road/tires
More hardwired to the ground, but not harsh ride
Better lateral handling
Feels more like a sports car than an SUV
Steeda Cons:
Ride noticeably rougher
Not as comfortable for a daily driver
Don't look as good installed since they don't lower as much as the H&Rs
Lower in the front than in the back
H&R Pros
More comfortable for daily driving, especially on the highway
Better weight transfer during launch (straight line)
Chassis looks less SUV-ish, looks BETTER
Front and rear lowering bias even
H&R Cons
Don't handle as well, more side sway despite having the Steeda sway bar.
Less precise steering input feel, less communication feedback with steering wheel to tires
Tends to feel a bit floaty boaty in comparison to the Steedas when going over bumps or imperfections. I noticed this almost immediately since I drive the same roads every day.
Rear tends to bottom out over road humps/speed bumps
Feels more like an SUV than a sporty vehicle (I'm sure it's better than the stock springs though)
Steeda side:
H&R side:
Stiffer springs don’t necessarily handle better at the absolute limit…some body roll is actually a good thing in a big heavy car. This is very true. However, steering feedback is much more important in getting the vehicle to go where you want it to during aggressive maneuvers, using throttle input and I feel more confident with the Steedas when it comes to lateral abrupt "movements". With that said, I felt like the H&Rs compromise handling a bit for comfort and every day use. The Steedas are more high strung, easier to interpret steering feedback and more fun to drive, especially darting out of turns that are NOT at the limit. I have not tracked either set up and have no plans to do so. I would imagine that the difference in these two different springs is the spring rate (if it's progressive between min/max compression). I don't feel like the shocks are the greatest with either spring, but the compression rates between the two springs are very noticeably different. I have not yet researched the spring rates for this application, including the stock spring to compare.
It could be subjective, however, I also drive a modified C7 Corvette Z06 and the difference between the H&R and Steeda lowering springs is about the same between Sport mode and track mode on that car. lol. It's noticeable. While the magnetic shocks are infinitely better at irregular vehicle movements, it's also much lighter, lower to the ground and different/better weight distribution (an SUV will be much more top heavy). I'm going more on steering feel and feedback between the steering wheel and the road, but also the floaty boaty feel during aggressive driving does not inspire confidence, especially when I need to change lanes at speed. With the Steeda springs, I feel more confident at high speeds, or at 8/10ths of the limit than I do with the H&Rs. That's something to consider at 100+ mph, even in a straight line. Springs are just one part of the puzzle when it comes to a vehicles handling charactoristics. It's not really the lateral body roll that makes me nervous, it's that the suspension overall seems to get more unsettled in certain situations. Like dips in the road make the front end wallow a bit during normal driving. While the Steeda spring might be a bit harsher, everything feels precise and under control. I noticed this my first drive back after picking it up that it just felt more "floaty" which equates to more "unsettled" especially when I'm used to point and shoot precision. In my opinion the Steeda springs handle better laterally. "Floaty boaty" does not mean body roll, it means lack of steering feel and the front end especially tends to raise and dive more during accerations and braking. These two springs are NOTICEABLY different. The Steeda springs make the Explorer ST feel more planted, more precise, easier to point and shoot... like the difference between a steak knife and a butter knife. lol The Steeda spring feels "sportier" and makes the big heavy SUV feel more like a sports car.
EDIT: Weight transfer between front and rear of vehicle is much different. The H&Rs are more profound and dramatic for instance when slamming on the brakes, and mine will actually bottom out over road humps, whereas the Steedas never exhibited that, even with 5 passengers. The nose tends to dive more and moves around more during steering inputs. The only way I can describe it is that the driving experience is less "precise".
Lowering Springs vs Coilovers: What's Right For You?
A lowered suspension is a rite of passage for all keen car modifiers. Not only does it make your car look sleek and sporty, but it offers greater aerodynamics while driving. As well as enhancing performance and reducing weight transfer when braking or accelerating, it can also significantly improve how a car handles on the road.
With competitive price and timely delivery, Hengguang sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
Lowering a suspension does have its downsides though. Domestic cars can be lowered by around 40mm, normally without issues. However, lowering a suspension even further is likely to affect drive quality and how quickly tyres wear out. Not only that, you’re also likely to scratch or damage the underside of your car, especially on uneven ground or when driving over potholes.
Choosing the wrong setup is also likely to affect the way your car drives, possibly removing some of the enjoyment for you and your passengers. This is normally where the debate between lowering springs and coilovers comes in. And, for some cars, the wrong choice can have drastic consequences, leaving you and your passengers feeling every bump, stone, and painted line on the road.
Lowering Springs vs. Coilovers: What’s the Difference?
It’s no surprise that there’s a rivalry between lowering springs and coilovers within the petrolhead community. Unfortunately, it’s not a simple case of right and wrong. In most circumstances, it depends on what benefits your car the most and the type of performance you want to achieve. Budget and finances also play a huge part.
Lowering Springs
As its name suggests, lowering springs naturally decreases the amount of space between a car’s underside and the ground after they’ve been installed. They’re designed to replace the original coil springs fitted by the equipment manufacturer to create a lowered ride height.
As they’re shorter than the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coil springs, lowering springs offer an increased spring rate which leads to a much firmer ride. Lowering springs are ideal for anyone trying to achieve enhanced performance, especially as you’ll need to change the shock absorbers here too, but you’ll need to consider the cost implication here. The downside is that most lowering springs bottom out once the car has been lowered by 45mm, meaning ambitions of driving even closer to the ground are scuppered.
Coilovers
Ideal for petrolheads seeking premium performance and improved handling, coilovers can be fitted to a vehicle, once again, to reduce the height. Many choose to fit them on their cars to experience a lowered centre of gravity and stiffer suspension.
Unlike lowering springs, the coilover and shock absorber come as one unit prior to installation, meaning an all-in-one solution for greater ease. Depending on the quality, fit and type of coilover, you could lower your car by up to 65mm and, in some cases, you might be able to go even further. Coilovers also offer greater adjustability and support at every wheel, but they come with a hefty price tag.
Lowering Springs vs. Coilover: Which One is Right for You?
Before we enter this debate, it’s worth noting that build quality and poorly fitted parts are likely to affect how your car runs, handles, and drives. Simply buying the cheapest part isn’t necessarily the best option. Trying to lower your suspension yourself could also be costly.
For more information, please visit high tension springs.
The cheapest parts on the market are not necessarily produced by reputable brands that have a proven track record. Fixing any part to your car that has been produced by an unknown manufacturer could enter you into a game of roulette, where you never know what the outcome will be. Without professional help, you could also be putting yourself and your car in danger if you attempt to fit the part on its own. You might even end up damaging other components on your car. To get the best out of your machine, it’s recommended to get work completed by a professional mechanic.
The discussion about lowering springs or coilovers has caused a social media storm amongst car enthusiasts. Naturally, some petrolheads claim lowering springs are better whereas others swear by coilovers. Unfortunately, if you’re trying to avoid one over the other, it might not always work in your favour. It’s not actually possible to determine which lowered suspension setup is right for your car. In fact, there’s no stock answer dependent on your car and model type either. Choosing which option works best for you relies on two key factors: budget and performance.
It’s worth looking at your budget and what you want from your car’s performance before selecting either coilovers or lowering springs. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Other car owners of similar makes and models will be able to share what they have done too, so take advantage of online forums before making that final decision.
What are the Pros and Cons of Lowering Springs?
What are the Pros and Cons of Coilovers?
What Else Should Be Considered When Lowering Suspension?
Those who love modifying cars will know that lowering a suspension isn’t a decision taken lightly. A vehicle’s suspension simply can’t just be lowered. The right research needs to be done first.
Cost of Labour and Parts
Settling for the cheapest parts and completing the job yourself could be a recipe for disaster. Not only could you completely lose the performance upgrade you hoped for, but you could easily damage the underside of your car. Investing in more reputable brands is one way to ensure your car can be lowered without the hassle. Otherwise, you risk fitting your vehicle with untested and problematic parts.
Additionally, DIY projects could also cause your expectations to fall short. Professional mechanics are likely to spot any issues early on and address them too. Without this knowledge and experience, you could end up causing more damage to your car.
Suspension Damping
After fitting coilovers, it’s possible that the ride quality might feel a little different and take time to adjust to. You’ll need to get the damping balance right to ensure you have the performance experience you desire. Too much damping could restrict how your suspension moves, making it uncomfortable to drive. Too little damping could be dangerous, causing your car to feel unstable as you’re driving.
Noise Reduction
The closer you are to the ground, the more likely you’ll hear an increase in road noise. Whilst it can be rewarding to listen to your car as you drive, too much road noise can become a hindrance. You might end up completing some acoustic-enhancing features, such as door soundproofing mats, within the cabin to counteract this, or just improve the speaker system.
Road Worthiness
Naturally, lowered cars are likely to attract attention, especially as their design can often be quite polarising. Such bold vehicle statements are always going to turn heads, including the police. That’s why it’s essential to keep all records of modifications and roadworthiness, such as an MOT, up-to-date and on hand. It’s not illegal to lower your suspension, but if it hinders your capability to steer and control the vehicle accordingly, it will be classified as dangerous. Drivers could be slapped with three penalty points and a CU code (construction and use offence), such as CU20, on their record.