Which Coil Spring Is Right For Your 4x4 Vehicle

WHICH COIL SPRING IS RIGHT FOR YOUR 4X4 VEHICLE There are really two basic categories of springs available on the market - linear springs and progressive (or variable rate) springs. LINEAR PROGRESSIVE SPRING RATE SPRING RATE These have a spring rate that is consistent along the entire length These have a spring rate that in- creases or changes along with the compression of the spring. The with the compression of the spring. The amount of space be- amount of space between every tween every winding or coil of the spring is the same. winding or coil of the spring is dif- ferent. -> See how the gap between each indi- See how the gap between top and bottom coil changes on this spring? This shows that it is progressively rated. vidual coil is the same, this indicates the rate is linear on these springs. LINEAR SPRING PROGRESSIVE SPRING RATE COMPRESSION RATE COMPRESSION As the load on the spring increases, the spring com- STAGE 1 presses an amount directly proportional to that load. As the spring is compressed, the soft coils on the tightly wound side will collapse, coming into contact with each other. STAGE 2 When this happens, the rest of the spring starts to compress at the second higher rate. So, if the spring is rated at 100lb per inch, it will compress 2 inches when 200lb is applied. So what factors should I consider for MY 4WD? Harder springs and softer dampening will give a firm ride with less body roll. Soft springs with harder dampening will also give a firm ride but with more body roll. Ride quality is often most critical when the wheel frequency and travel is fairly low. This is generally when a long soft spring with a low linear rate, combined with appropriately valved shocks can provide a plush ride with smooth controlled dampening, and will allow the swaybar to handle body roll. KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER! 1) Always search for a manufacturer that can provide springs rated for the loads that your vehicle will carry and also provide the right amount of lift that is needed whilst taking into account the overall shock travel you are planning on running! Spring material, scragging, coat- ing and finishing processes are There is no point in having shiny new long travel shocks if they sell you key factors to a long lasting quali- ty off-road spring. springs that are so stiff you can never compress them. TALK TO A QUALITY SUSPENSION DEALER LIKE SUPERIOR ENGINEERING AND GET THE BEST ADVICE ON SOME NEW COIL SPRINGS! (07) 5433 1411 Saperior www.superiorengineering.com.au [email protected] ENGINEERING.C OM.AU PREM IUM 4 X4 AC CESSO RIES www EXAMPLE Wwww