Lowering a 98 i30

[reddy]

My car is completely stock other than 17" rims. I want to lower it, probably with Eibach springs. Do I need to get new shocks and struts?

[audtatious]

Yes. If not, then you will have to start replacing struts within a few months anyway. Might as well do it all at once and save the nightmare.

[reddy]

Cool, thanks for the info. Any recommendations in terms of a brand? Is it possible and/or recommended to get an all inclusive kit (springs & struts)?

Also, the eibach kit drops 1.5" from the front and 1.3" from the back. I was told that I may need a camber kit for 1.5"+ drops, can anyone verify this?

[maxhopper]

Camber kit is not needed unless you go 2+" IMO. My 97 was aligned just fine with Tein H-techs, which is about the same drop you're looking at.

As for struts/shocks, do want them to be adjustable or not?

[reddy]

I don't *need* adjustability, but it would be nice. Just to summarize, I need coil springs, struts and shocks?

[maxhopper]

Correct. Struts for the front, shocks for the rear.

Some of the more popular choices: for adjustables, either Tokico Illuminas, KYB AGXs, or KONIs. For nonadjustables, Tokico blues or KYb GR-2s.

[reddy]

I didn't realize all that was involved when I decided to lower my car. I have been calling local shops, getting quotes on Eibach Pro-Kit springs, and KYB GR2 struts/shocks. I don't think I need adjustable struts, but then again feel free to correct me. I know part of the adjustment is to do with the ride quality/performance, but are there any other benefits? I live in Toronto, so I am on 225/45r17 tires in the summer, and 205/65r15 tires in the winter.

So far the best price (for parts only) has been $345 for the prokit, and $483 for all the GR2s (front right, front left, 2x rear). Those are canadian prices, including taxes. I think I will end up paying $150-200 for installation. Do those prices sound about right?

[maxhopper]

You don't need adjustables, it just depends on if you like varying the ride characteristics. At the drag strip, set them to the firmest...on a long highway cruise, set them pretty soft.

If the currency converter I used is accurate, $485 CA = $420.44 US. That means you're getting screwed.

I saw one of our sponsors has the GR-2s for $211.03 (US) + shipping.

Go through this thread and check out any of them that carry suspension products. You'll get the best prices, and you'll support the companies that make this forum possible.zerothread?id=119692

[reddy]

Actually at SCO it was 211.03 for just the front pair, and another 178.24 for the rears, so $389 +s/h = ~$423. After exchange it comes to almost $500, and that's not even including tax yet (we pay 15% for the time being ;[). Living in Ontario sucks!

[maxhopper]

My bad, I thought that seemed cheap. Same sponsor does have Tokico HPs (blues) for $332.95.

[reddy]

Would you recommend Tokicos over KYBs? Remember I'm newer than new to customizing, so I honestly have no idea what to look for at this point.

[maxhopper]

From what I have read, the GR-2's will hold up better with a drop than the HPs; but that the GR-2s give a much more harsh ride in cold temps than the HPs.

This is another reason adjustables give you the best of both worlds.