Supashock's Street and Track Series provides Coilover Upgrades for JDM Classics that you can buy now and make your car the best it can be.
Supashock has coilover upgrades for many Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) car models including;
- Honda S2000
- Mazda RX7 and RX8
- Mazda MX5
- Mitsubishi Evo
- Subaru Legacy/Liberty
- Subaru Impreza, WRX and STI
- Subaru BRZ
- Toyota GR Yaris
- Toyota Supra
- Toyota FT86/GT86
- Toyota MR2
- Toyota Chaser Mark II and Mark X
- Toyota Altezza
- Nissan Cefiro
- Nissan Maxima
- Nissan Skyline
- Nissan Silvia
Is it worth upgrading my JDM classic with coilovers?
Deciding whether to upgrade your JDM classic with coilovers depends on your personal preferences, intended use of the vehicle, and the condition of the existing suspension. Here are some factors to consider when making the decision to use all new parts for your project car:
Performance enhancement
Coilover suspension upgrades can significantly improve the handling and performance of your JDM classic. They offer adjustability in terms of ride height, damping, and spring rates, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to your liking. If you're looking to enhance cornering ability, reduce body roll, and achieve a more precise and responsive driving experience, coilovers can be a worthwhile upgrade.
Comfort and ride quality
It's important to note that coilovers generally provide a firmer ride compared to the stock suspension. If you prioritise a smooth and comfortable ride, especially for daily driving or long-distance journeys, coilover suspension upgrades may not be the best choice. However, some coilovers offer adjustable damping settings that allow you to balance performance and comfort.
Customisation and adjustability
Coilover suspension upgrades offer a higher level of customization and adjustability compared to stock suspensions. If you enjoy fine-tuning your JDM classic's suspension to suit your driving style or specific road conditions, coilovers can provide the flexibility to do so.
Authenticity and originality
If preserving the authenticity and originality of your JDM classic is a priority, modifying the suspension with coilovers may not be desirable. Some classic car enthusiasts prefer to keep their vehicles as close to their original factory specifications as possible.
Maintenance and cost
Upgrading to coilovers involves additional costs, including the purchase of the coilover kit and potential installation fees. Additionally, coilovers may require more maintenance and periodic adjustments compared to stock suspensions.
Are there factors that I should consider when buying coilover suspension upgrades for my JDM classic?
There are several factors to consider when buying coilovers for your JDM classic. These factors will help ensure that you select the right coilovers that are suitable for your vehicle and meet your specific needs:
Fitment and compatibility
Ensure that the coilovers you choose are designed to fit your specific JDM classic model. Coilovers are often manufactured with specific vehicle applications in mind, so it's essential to select a set that is compatible with your JDM classic's make, model, and year.
Quality and brand reputation
Choose coilovers from reputable brands known for their quality and performance. Research customer reviews, feedback, and expert opinions to gauge the reliability and durability of the coilover brand you are considering. Investing in high-quality coilovers will ensure longevity and consistent performance.
Adjustability
Consider the level of adjustability you desire in your coilovers. Determine if you want the ability to adjust ride height, damping settings, and spring rates. Adjustable coilovers allow you to fine-tune the suspension to your desired preferences and driving style.
Spring rates and damping
Consider the spring rates and damping characteristics of the coilovers. Spring rates affect the firmness or softness of the suspension, while damping controls the rate at which the suspension compresses and rebounds. Choose coilovers with spring rates and damping characteristics that match your intended use and driving preferences.
Build quality and materials
Pay attention to the build quality and materials used in the construction of the coilovers. Look for high-quality components such as durable monotube dampers, corrosion-resistant coatings, and robust adjustment mechanisms. This ensures that the coilovers can withstand the demands of regular use and various driving conditions.
Warranty and support
Check if the coilovers come with a warranty and after-sales support. A warranty provides peace of mind in case of any manufacturing defects or issues that may arise. Additionally, reliable customer support from the manufacturer or seller can be valuable if you have any questions or need assistance during the installation or use of the coilovers.
Budget
Consider your budget when choosing coilovers. While it's tempting to opt for the most expensive option, it's essential to find a balance between your budget and the quality and features you require. Research various options within your price range and prioritise the factors that are most important to you.
Performance Testing: Evaluating the Performance of Your JDM Classic's Upgraded Coilovers
Evaluating the performance of your JDM classic's upgraded coilovers is crucial, as it ensures that the investment made in upgrading the suspension system with all new parts for your project car is worthwhile and that the desired improvements in handling, stability, and ride quality have been achieved.
You can use the following steps to evaluate the success of your upgraded coilovers:
Road test
Conducting a road test is a crucial step in evaluating the performance of JDM classic upgraded coilovers. By driving the vehicle under different road conditions, such as smooth surfaces, rough terrain, or corners, it allows for firsthand experience of how the coilovers handle and respond.
This test helps assess the overall stability, handling, and responsiveness of the suspension system, providing valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the coilovers in improving the vehicle's performance.
Observe body roll
One key aspect of evaluating the upgraded coilovers is to observe the body roll during driving manoeuvres. A reduction in body roll indicates that the coilovers are effectively minimising the lateral movement of the vehicle's body, enhancing stability and control during cornering.
By paying attention to how the vehicle leans and stays composed during turns, it helps determine the effectiveness of the coilovers in reducing body roll and improving overall handling.
Evaluate ride quality
Assessing the ride quality is essential to understand the impact of the upgraded coilovers on the comfort and smoothness of the vehicle. By monitoring how the coilovers absorb bumps, vibrations, and road imperfections, it allows for evaluating if the suspension system provides a balanced and comfortable ride.
Factors such as excessive harshness, excessive bouncing, or discomfort can indicate potential issues or the need for adjustments in the coilovers' settings.
Check for noise
While testing the performance of the upgraded coilovers, it is important to listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. Rattling, clunking, or squeaking sounds can indicate potential problems or inadequate installation of the coilovers. A quiet and smooth operation without any abnormal noises signifies a well-performing suspension system.
Evaluate braking performance
The braking performance is another crucial aspect to assess when evaluating the coilovers. By testing the braking system under different conditions, such as sudden stops or emergency braking, it helps determine if the coilovers provide improved stability and control during braking.
Any improvements in stopping distances, reduced nosedive, and enhanced pedal feel indicate the effectiveness of the upgraded coilovers in enhancing the vehicle's braking performance.
Check tire wear
Inspecting the tire wear pattern is important in evaluating the performance of the coilovers. Uneven or excessive tire wear can be an indication of improper suspension alignment or inadequate damping control by the coilovers.
By checking for consistent and even tire wear across all tires, it helps determine if the coilovers are properly distributing the weight and maintaining optimal contact between the tires and the road surface.
Professional inspection
Seeking a professional inspection is highly recommended to thoroughly evaluate the performance of the JDM classic upgraded coilovers. A trained and experienced technician can conduct a comprehensive examination, checking for any potential issues, such as leaks, damaged components, or improper installation.
Their expertise ensures a detailed assessment of the coilovers' performance and provides valuable insights and recommendations for optimising the suspension system's functionality.
