Spring Preload?

[the converted]

I'm picking up a set of BC racing coilovers for my Maxima and was just wondering what people had for suggestions about preloading springs. Car is going to be a daily driver with weekend autocross duty in case that makes any difference in peoples suggestions. I figure that I'll probably start off with about 1/2" of preload (8k/6k springs) and see how that feels.

[flohtingPoint]

The sacrifice in damper travel for a DD isn't worth preloading your springs.

[the converted]

Can you justify that answer? What is the effect of preload on the ride and handling?