Suspension Question

[texasz]

Can someone explain what Tokico Illumina Shocks & Springs are and Coilovers? I keep hearing about both and do not know which is better or even what the difference is.

Still trying to learn about the Z's.....

[hmsports]

A coilover is simply a name for springs (coil) that fit over an assembly like the Z strut towers. Most race cars -- and many street cars -- use adjustable coil over kits so they can adjust ride-height, corner weights and easily change spring rates. Here's a picture of a Tokiko coil over setup:

Tokiko Illumina are simply a brand and make of strut inserts (shocks). Another (better) brand is Koni.

[texasz]

So then are the adjustable Tokiko Illumina actually coilovers?

What is on the 240Z stock then? I thought that the typical setup for cars was to have the strut in the center of the spring. Is this not the case?

[2ManyZs]

Actually a McPherson strut suspension is technically a coil-over shock suspension. What we are referring to when we talk about coil-overs are actually smaller diameter coil springs with an adjustable perch that replaces the stock non-adjustable spring and perch.

The Illumina's are an adjustable strut cartridge (or technically a shock absorber), not coil-overs per se....

Many US cars use a coil spring that is sandwiched between either two control arms or one control arm and a frame mount, yet you can change them to a coil-over that is bought as a unit that replaces the coil spring and the stand alone shock absorber.

[texasz]

So are the 5 way adjustable Tokico Illumina Shocks & Springs a good way to go or should I hold out for the McPherson coilovers? If yes, then is $564 (including shipping) a good price for all four corners?

Car use will be some street driving and autox if this helps answer my questions.

[texasz]

Anyone..............anyone.............???

Please see prior post for my questions.

[2ManyZs]

564 isn't a bad price with shipping... have you tried shox.com?

The adjustable coil-overs will cost you about double that, plus require a lot of welding and labor to install, so this would be the best solution if you don't plan on making any permanent modifications...

Adjustable coil-overs are only really necessary when you are trying to fit wheels with a lot of backspacing and need the room for the wheel and tire to clear by using a smaller diamater spring, or going to be doing some more serious racing.