Did you cut down your bumpstops?

[=Enigma=]

In the installation instructions for my new Tokico springs, it recommends cutting any replacement bumpstops down since the new springs are shorter than stock. In the reference picture it shows 3 bumpstops including one similar to my new Energy Suspension bumpstop. Is this really necessary?

[kenz240z]

I installed a set of Tokico blue HP struts and new Tokico springs on my '73. I also installed new Energy Suspension bumpstops. I did not cut the bumpstops before putting them on, and I haven't noticed any problems with my suspension at all. In fact, the car handles & rides better than ever!

[=Enigma=]

Thanks for the info Ken. I have the same setup but haven't installed it yet. I have to complete the process of refinishing all the suspension components before I can start putting it all back together. Hopefully I'll be done before Christmas. Sort of an early present to myself.

Anyone else have an opinion on this?

[Gav240z]

I agree I wouldn't cut the old ones if anything it's good if they are slightly longer, less risk of bottoming out. I noticed my King Springs were not as long as the Tokico progressive rate springs from photos others have posted. I don't think I could even get mine close to bottoming out the suspension is so firm. I installed the Tokico 5 way Illuminas FWIW.

If you cut them then they are more likely to break or split IMHO.

I should also add that I installed bump stops that were intergrated into the protective boots. They were made by KYB.

I should also point out that it will be a great present for you , you honestly won't know yourself after installing new struts.

[g260]

Hey Gav,

Do you happen to know what the free height of the King springs were and do you know the rating?

Also, were they progressive on the front and linear on the rear.

Just trying to compare with a set that were on a car I purchased.

Cheers,

Geoff

[kenz240z]

Hi Enigma,

I refinished all the parts when I rebuilt the suspension on my Z, check out my gallery for pics if your interested. I took several before & after pictures as I did the work. It took me about 3 weeks to do the front suspension & steering rack, and about a month to do the rear suspension. I'd say about 85% of the time was spent cleaning parts to prep them for paint.

[mlc240z]

kenz, damn good looking suspension.

85% is definitely in the ballpark for the time on cleaning. painting is almost an anticlimax!!

i've been 'lazily' doing mine, but it takes patience, patience, patience to not rush to get it done.

[kenz240z]

Thanks, Bart. I put in a lot of nights & weekends to rebuild the suspension on my Z. I had the engine out for a rebuild at the time, made it easier to do the crossmember & steering rack.

[Gav240z]

Hey Gav,

Do you happen to know what the free height of the King springs were and do you know the rating?

Also, were they progressive on the front and linear on the rear.

Just trying to compare with a set that were on a car I purchased.

Cheers,

Geoff

Hi Geoff, unfortunately I'm not sure on their spec or height. I know that I could get them out without a spring compressor and there was no gap at the upper perch.

I don't know what poundage they are since the PO fitted them a few years back. I just went with them because I didn't want to buy new springs since I plan on eventually using Coil Overs.

I can tell you though it's a very firm ride and I feel every bump that's for sure. Even with the Tokico's set on 2 out of the 5.

[=Enigma=]

I refinished all the parts when I rebuilt the suspension on my Z, check out my gallery for pics if your interested.

Yeah, I check all the pics out in your gallery. Real nice job on the rebuild. Actually it's your gallery that inspired me to go forth and do a complete refresh of both the front and rear suspension while I did the springs, shocks and bushings.

[kenz240z]

Hi Enigma, I'm glad the photos I've posted have inspired you. These Z cars are really pretty simple to work on. With a big floor jack it's easy to take the suspension apart by yourself. And with this being the age of digital photography, it's so easy and convenient to take a few pictures as you work on a project.

Please feel free to PM me if you have any questions as you get started with your suspension rebuild.