Correct shocks/dampers to go with lowering springs

[The Mighty Quinn]

Can anyone who has lowered the suspension on their 75 (or ZT) advise on what shocks/dampers they used in conjunction with the lower springs?

I've got a set of H&R lowering springs (drop of 35mm) and H&R seem to advise that these CAN be used with original shocks. However, I notice that Monroe state that their shocks are NOT to be used with lowered suspension

I see that Bilstein manufacture rear shocks for use on a 75 that can cater for a drop of up to 40mm, but there's nothing obvious available for dropped suspension on the front.

So, what are the options? Are the shock manufacturers simply trying to avoid warranty issues by stating their shocks aren't to be used with lowered suspension, when in all practicality, their shocks may suit the job just fine? Or, are they simply not suitable?

Interested to hear any suggestions (other than don't lower it ), as info seems thin on the ground in this regard.

Cheers,
Karl.

[The Mighty Quinn]

Sorry, no idea how this thread ended up in the Members Cars for Sale forum

Can a mod please send to the General forum?


Thanks,
Karl.

[Greeners]

Moved to the Technical Help Section

[DMGRS]

We have customers using ours with both Moto Build and HR springs - lowest I'm aware of is 45mm with no issues.

I have no problem warranting them when used with lowering kits.

[clf]

I have subscribed to this thread as much out of interest than planning on this, for I have noticed this too.

In my mind using standard dampers would be possible and should create no issue, however their movement damping action would be standard rather than uprated?

Also because they would be constantly under more compression than designed, this would be additional pressure on the seals surely. Could this create a longevity problem?

Of course they must have the possibility of an owner having a permanent additional load in their car designed into them too

[VVC-Geeza]

As discussed via pm Karl, progressive springs such as those made by Eibach and H&R are designed to work with OE shocks.I have had my Eibach springs fitted for over 5 years now along with the OE shocks and there have been no suspension issues.You mentioned in your pm that the shocks on you car have seen better days so perhaps replace with new OE when you fit your new springs.DMGRS seems to be your man the replacements

[The Mighty Quinn]

Originally Posted by VVC-Geeza

As discussed via pm Karl, progressive springs such as those made by Eibach and H&R are designed to work with OE shocks.I have had my Eibach springs fitted for over 5 years now along with the OE shocks and there have been no suspension issues.You mentioned in your pm that the shocks on you car have seen better days so perhaps replace with new OE when you fit your new springs.DMGRS seems to be your man the replacements

Thanks Mick.

Yeah, I'm thinking of going the OE route, but with part numbers RNB000381 and RNB000391 (states on Rimmers that these are suitable for 1.8T + MG Sports suspension).

As the MG ZT suspension is about 30mm lower than the 75 (as standard, I think), it would seem to make sense to fit OE ZT shocks as these will be that bit shorter (no idea whether this is actually the case or not though.. )

But so long as standard shocks work, it seems there's a reasonable selection of items to choose from


Cheers,
Karl.

[VVC-Geeza]

I've never driven a ZT Karl but I'm told it's a much harsher ride than the 75,I believe they sit 25mm lower than the 75.

I wanted to keep the comfort of normal day to day driving on a variety of road surfaces,so I find a combination of progressive springs (30mm lower) and OE shocks works very well for me.

I think ZT shocks would make it a much more bumpy ride,hope you haven't got any loose fillings

[The Mighty Quinn]

Originally Posted by VVC-Geeza

I've never driven a ZT Karl but I'm told it's a much harsher ride than the 75,I believe they sit 25mm lower than the 75.

I wanted to keep the comfort of normal day to day driving on a variety of road surfaces,so I find a combination of progressive springs (30mm lower) and OE shocks works very well for me.

I think ZT shocks would make it a much more bumpy ride,hope you haven't got any loose fillings

Yeah, you're right - I don't need a super handling/teeth shattering car as I'm a pretty laid back driver (changing for aesthetics only, really). So I've opted for Matt's "comfort" ZT items - which will hopefully strike a nice balance.

Cheers,
Karl.

[The Mighty Quinn]

Originally Posted by DMGRS

We have customers using ours with both Moto Build and HR springs - lowest I'm aware of is 45mm with no issues.

I have no problem warranting them when used with lowering kits.

Cheers Matt, just ordered two of your comfort ZT items.