Coil-over shocks, good for a "Softy?"

[Rfong]

I have an 08 EX35 Journey AWD with 17" wheels (changed from 18"). I want to change the suspension to allow me to make the ride softer especially going over potholes and speed bumps. I use my car as a "City" car and the suspension set up is just too harsh to do my "Starbucks/cellphone" driving. I have other cars for that spirited type of driving.

I thought adding adjustable coil-over shocks would be the best method. Am I correct?

I know Katsu has posted his suspension changes and I appreciate and admire his work, but since I'm in the USA there must be sources and products where I can more easily make the changes instead of buying through Japan.

Is the EX35 suspension the same as used in the G35 or 350Z? I have looked at those forums and there are a multitude of options as far as brands of coil-over shocks. Can anyone recommend a brand or model of coil-over which would suit my purpose of a softer ride? Source?

Does raising or lowering the height correlate to hard or soft ride? I wouldn't mind lowering the car to eliminate some of the wheel gap at the fenders.

[jmess]

Coil overs kits are generally calibrated to firm up the ride and handling. The shock valving and spring rates tend to be more aggressive along with firmer bushing. Some shocks are adjustable and you have some options with spring rates.

I see you have a couple of options:

1. Find some replacement shocks that are adjustable and have settings that are softer than stock.2. And/or have some springs made that are softer than stock.3. Trade in the EX on an RX-350.

I would say 3 is your best option. Nissan spent a lot of engineering hours tuning the EX suspension/ride and you will be in trial and error mode if you try and soften it up. The RX should put you to sleep.