skyblue280z

Hey my Z is over at the local Z specialties shop right now getting breaks fixed, and I really want to lower it while its there, I mean.. I like the 1inch drop that Eibach springs give (my car is totally stock height) but I would want a 2inch drop more

I have new shocks in it already but I have stock springs from the 70's, and I know that the tokico illumina springs give it a 2 inch drop. You guys think a 2inch wouldnt hurt? Whats your thoughts. Thanks.


I want to get the 240Z bumper conversion asap as well

BoulderZ

Just my thoughts:
If you're really at Z Specialties in the greater Seattle, WA area, you're in good hands. I've bought several things from them (including their 105 amp alternator upgrade), and their products and service all top notch.

You might be confusing some parts:
Tokico Springs should lower about 1" from stock: http://www.thezstore.com/page/TZS/CTGY/PSDC01B
and Tokico Illuminas are actually adjustable (damping) strut cartridges: http://www.thezstore.com/page/TZS/CTGY/PSDC02C

You mention already having new shocks (I'm assuming you mean strut cartridges), so I doubt you want to go and immediately buy new Illuminas, and you're looking for just springs? In any case, another thing to bear in mind is that if you have stock springs currently, your car might be riding an inch or so lower already, just from 30-year-old-spring-sag. There are some specs floating around here and the other Z sites (and in some of the manuals), if you want to actually measure it (can't hurt to search and see).

For what it's worth: I went with Tokico springs and HP struts (I don't need the adjustability), and stock outer tire diameter on 15" rims rather than 14" rims, and new Corbeau seats. Our roads are generally awful (the DOT really does it's best to maintain them, but our winters are very hard on the pavement) with a few fun newly paved exceptions, and I don't feel my ride's too harsh. Of course, I actually like the big bumpers on my '78, too, so take my opinion with a grain of salt.

Too low a spring, or too strongly damped a strut cartridge, or too little tire sidewall, or old/too little seat upholstery (or some combo), and your ride can get really harsh really quickly. Last I visited Seattle in the spring, the roads hadn't changed much from when I lived there: a few really good roads, while the side and secondary roads/streets can be pretty bad. I'd probably go with the Tokico springs, and see how they work with your current strut cartridges, and go from there. Better to change one thing at a time, if you can. You'll get to know exactly what's changed in each step. Don't hesitate to ask the folks at Z Specialities, too. Explain to them what your goals are, and they won't steer you wrong (pun intended).

cheers,
Dave

Bleach

I've never heard of any brand advertising a 2" drop. They are usually all 1 or 1.25"

If you want 2", buy your choice of lowering springs the set the car on them, drive it a little and then measure where its at. Cut 1/4 or 1/2 coil where needed.

skyblue280z

yes this is the Z specialties your talking about - If it wasnt for them my car would prolly not run well haha. But ya ill talk to them on Monday about lowering, thanks for the help guys.