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CRIZZ »
https://forums.nicoclub.com/crizz-u287371.html
Wed Aug 25, 2021 3:18 am
Let's talk suspension (Y33)
The Q45 is a heavy full size sedan. One of the main things about the Q45 that had alot of issues was the struts. To make matters worse, nowdays they are very hard to find oem or aftermarket replacement struts/shocks. As of 2021 only 2 major companies which are BC coilovers and Megan racing have made bolt on coilovers for the Q45. As far as interchangeable struts/shocks there are none. Well no direct bolt ons' but there are some with few modifications that come from the s13 and s14 platform. Keep In mind when installing new struts, shocks or coilovers it is always recomended to replace all rubber parts and bearings. When replacing front struts on a Y33 you will always, most certainly need to replace your wheel bearing, if you cannot get it off in one piece.
I hope other will pitch in and say what they are running.
OEM Replacement.
Front: Currently the only way to get a retail on some new oem front struts is through the dealership themselves. In NICOforums a couples years back they had good connections with a certain parts department at infiniti (if those connections still exist I hope a NICO member will shine light on that) But other than that we are all stuck at the mercy of a dealership and there inflated prices for parts. Last time I checked front left or right strut is $450+ plus tax and shipping.
Rear: Good News! Gabriel shocks and struts makes a good (not perfect) oem feel shock for rear . They are starting currently at $40 through autozone and rockauto. I previously installed them on my 98 and the ride quality is pretty darn good. Can not feel a noticeable difference but not 100% sure on life expectancy. I will update you all after a year of use (date installed 5/2021). OEM struts are going around the same price for the fronts ($400+) through a infiniti parts dealer.
Aftermarket Coilovers
Currently for coilovers with spindles you're looking at 2 companies only. BC Racing and Megan Racing. Only two companies I've heard and seen people use on there Q's with realiable results and few posibly ''unwanted features''.
First thing first, if you love how the Q45 rides and feels, smooth and luxurious. Well coilovers will ruin that to S***. Coilovers will most usually always make stock suspension stiffer. Some may also experience remorse for buying a set of $1500+ coilovers becasue you realize after installing your new said coilovers. It feels like your car is gunna brake next time you pass a bump or hole in the road. Truth is, if your planning on buying a new set of coilovers make sure you're choosing your spring rate. If you are not given the option either call or look for a different website.
Spring Rate
One major misconception is to think all coilovers are the same. Spring rate is key to bringing the best out of your new coilovers. Spring rates is sorta universal when it comes to specific car scenes in the car world. But for daily drivers or personal projects spring rate is very unique to one's own car. Spring rates should always go hand in hand with your veichles ''Sprung weight''
How do you measure sprung weight?
First 2 definitions.
1. Define sprung weight: Any amount of weight that is supported by a spring
2. Define unsprung weight: Any weight leading into an attachment at the bottom of a spring is unsprung weight
Knowing these two things we can rule out the wheels, tires, brakes, control arms, diffrential & axles for RWD, ect. when measuring sprung weight. In order to get perfect spring rates for your car, consider using weight-scale pads for all 4 wheels. This way youll be able to dial in that suspension. (you can weigh the car first and subtract the unsprung weight later) Other methods like weighing the entire car and ball parking the weigth ratio can get you close. Once you get your number(e.g. 550lbs front 425lbs rear) per individual spring you will have to add any more stifness you will want.(increase by 150 -250) depending on your car. A semi stiffer spring from stock will always improve your handling but decrease your ride quality . Sometimes you may need to convert your 'lbs spring rate' to a different unit depending on the manufacture of said coilovers.
Things to remember
Getting a very high spring rate will only benefit you if youre looking to save your suspension from rubbing, mashing or colliding with eachother. Carefully choosing your spring rate will let you unlock new potential of your car. Choosing a coilover manufacturer that lets you adjust dampaning will also unluck suspension tuning.