lowering springs
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 159
Likes: 0
lowering springs
is anybody using the perfomance 550 lb 1" lowering springs, if so what are the ride differences and how much stiffer are they than the basic stock suspension??? All answers greatly appreciated.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,864
Likes: 960
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
I've been running the 550# springs for years. The ride is very acceptable, and the front end dive and lean issues are noticeable improved. Every Corvette seems to sit a little differently, but mine sits at a nice height with these springs. I believe it lowered the front a touch, but it's been several years since I did it and I don't remember the exact height change.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,217
Likes: 5
From: Stark County Ohio
The 550 springs are easy to install without a spring compressor. They will slip right in, allowing the lower ball joint to be installed without any weight on the lower control arm. I’ve done four of my C3 Vettes this way. (Plus others for friends and relatives)
The rear spring and shocks are what “mostly” determines ride harshness that you can feel directly on your posterior. However, when installing the heavier front springs, the rear spring rate should be increased from stock.
I suggest talking with a knowledgeable vendor selling Corvette suspensions for recommendations on a balanced suspension package that would include sway bars and shocks. It’s been a few years since I upgraded my suspensions, but the company I used was Vette Brakes in Florida. (Tampa/St. Pete)
The rear spring and shocks are what “mostly” determines ride harshness that you can feel directly on your posterior. However, when installing the heavier front springs, the rear spring rate should be increased from stock.
I suggest talking with a knowledgeable vendor selling Corvette suspensions for recommendations on a balanced suspension package that would include sway bars and shocks. It’s been a few years since I upgraded my suspensions, but the company I used was Vette Brakes in Florida. (Tampa/St. Pete)
Racer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 395
Likes: 0
From: Orange massachusettes
Just got 550 lb coils w/ complete suspension package from VB&P. Gonna tackle job this weekend but wont have car on road untill spring! Engine and trans still sitting on floor and interior still apart. Give VB&P a call 1-800-237-9991, ask to talk to a tech. They will set you up w/balanced package OR just the info you need to "BUILD" your own/pick a spring rate to match your driving needs.
Pro
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 596
Likes: 1
I put the VBP 550s in the car on sunday. I have done extensive weight reduction on my front end, and found that the 3" gap between the tread and fender, viewed from the side, was a little too high. I took 'em right out and cut one and a quarter turns off the top. The car settled nicely so that from the side the tread is flush with fender lip. This is probably a bit low for most, but I love the nose slammed and the stiffer springs keep the front flat. I've only got a few hours on them, but I'm thrilled. Now- to work on the rear.
1st Gear
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
I put the VBP 550s in the car on sunday. I have done extensive weight reduction on my front end, and found that the 3" gap between the tread and fender, viewed from the side, was a little too high. I took 'em right out and cut one and a quarter turns off the top. The car settled nicely so that from the side the tread is flush with fender lip. This is probably a bit low for most, but I love the nose slammed and the stiffer springs keep the front flat. I've only got a few hours on them, but I'm thrilled. Now- to work on the rear.
Racer
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 357
Likes: 8
From: Champaign Urbana IL
i just installed a set of moog 5758 springs that are rated at 474 I believe. Cut 3/4 of a coil and dropped the car about 1.25 inches. Super easy install, just be sure that the spring sits in the groove on the lower control arm properly with 1/2 the drain hole covered. I also did the rear at the same time, but wow what a difference in the car as a whole.
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