Lowering my 1975 280Z

[Michael's Zcar]

I would like to know how to properly lower my 280Z (1975). Because of the bumper height restrictions and added weight for new style crash bumpers, the bigger stock original springs make the car currently sit like it is ready for a rally race. So, I would like to know the correct way to lower the car without having a negative impact on the geometry. Does this involve new lowering springs, struts, shocks and bumper stops? I hear that some people cut their original springs down. Hoping some fellow Z-owner will share his suspension wisdom.

[Zed Head]

Motorsport Auto has lowering kits. You should call them though, their web site has out-dated information and seems to be missing information on the spring sets for the 74-78 coupes.

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Cutting springs takes some expertise but will work. Finding decent shock absorbers might be difficult since Tokico is out of the Z car business, at least for the time being. Many people use KYB's but they come with a warning to avoid using them on lowered cars. It's a dilemma.

Are you looking for a bolt-in option, or do you have some shop skills and tools?

[Clark Rush]

Eibach prosprings advrt. lower about 1 1/2" this car looks like it has 240 bumper's (us crash bumper missing on this 280 ? ) springs/bump strg.spacers pain, easier than coilovers time is money. # 23-4041 springKit fit's 240-260,only? Ive seen strut mount's of differant Hgt's I lifted a 77 280z 4 toughTruck comp's using taller mt's like the car pictured here

[Michael's Zcar]

Hi Clark, Thanks very much for sharing your experience regarding lowering my Z car.

[Michael's Zcar]

Hi Zed Head,

Yes I am looking for bolt-in options, something tried and true. I just want to do it right first time because I have heard of so many different routes one can take to achieve a proper ride height/stance. Thanks for the referral to motorsport auto. I spoke with one of their salespeople and they recommended using KYB struts (F & R 74 2+2, 74,5-78; and FR 70-78) but the warning about not using them on a lowered car isn't very reassuring. Thanks again for your advice.

[siteunseen]

Here's what I'm looking at, Tokico HPK Kit NISSAN 280Z.

Haven't read that many reviews from Z owners yet. I thought I might start a thread and ask though.

[rossiz]

i'm looking to do the same w/my 78 280 - lower about an inch. car is DD but it's a sports car and i drive it as such, so i'd like to reduce some of the body roll from the tall-ish current (i believe stock) spring height. i pulled off the big bumpers, which lifted it up even more. i plan to get some bigger/wider wheels (currently 14" rims) to reduce some of the sidewall flex but i don't want to have to roll fender lips or endure an overly harsh ride.

i've read that progressive springs can provide the comfort along with better control (i use these on my sports bikes with great results) but don't really know where to start on spring rates, etc.

before the flames start re: progressives - i will never track or autox the car

[2sixTZombii]

Need to lower mine as well, was considering chopping springs.

[rossiz]

wow... no takers on this one.

guess i'm off to search for more info...

[TomoHawk]

I used the Eibach & tokiko stuff, and mine came out nice. The car was back to level and about an inch lower.

[Pop's Z]

FWIW, I installed a KYB/Eibach combo. Hasn't killed the strut inserts yet. That being said I am seriously considering going back to the original springs. The combination of the springs, the use of poly bushings, and a T/C rod kit with the nylon/steel setup has made for a harsh ride and unwanted steering feedback. My old butt longs for a softer ride. The car handles well, but I am going back to rubber bushings, a normal rubber T/C rod setup. Also I have to admit that while the lowered look is cool, the reduced ride height means scraped exhaust pipe/ frame rails on anything taller than a small dip. So, bottom line, I am willing to give up some handling performance for a softer ride...personal preference.

Cheers, Mike

[TomoHawk]

I grew up racing road bikes, so I'm used to 100PSI tires and feeling every little seam in the road.

I agree that using the rubber bushings for the strut rod is a good thing for regular driving.