Question about coilovers

[jshardin]

I have a '06 M45 Sport. I bought it for the looks without really taking it out on a long drive. I typically drive between 500 & 700 miles each week (between Dallas, Houston & San Antonio) and I have to say I was not prepared for the stiff ride of the Sport model. I know, not a smart move considering the amount I have to drive ...

I've considered changing the tires to either a 255/40 or 245/45 to give them a bit taller sidewall, but am also considering changing out the suspension. Would an adjustable coilover like the TEIN Type CS Damper Kit, or Type Flex Kit give me a smoother ride on the highway? Given that the highways in Texas are about as flat and straight as they come, having the tight suspension of the Sport is pretty much lost. Heck, the only way I even see a sloping curve is on the on/off cloverleaf ramps on the highway.

I noticed that the Flex Kit also has the option for an EDFC (electronic dampening force controller) kit that can dynamically change the settings as well.

Any comments or feedback on whether this would help? Any alternative ideas would be appreciated as well, given that a new set of coilovers would set me back 2k at least.

Scott

[szh]

I have not tried coilovers, so I am not sure whether these would make a difference or not.

The first thing I would suggest trying is to change your wheels and tires. That 19" wheel, with the low aspect-ratio tires, is a fairly major contributor to ride comfort. If you swapped to the stock 18" wheel, with a 245/45-18 tire - selected for ride comfort - you might get enough of what you need for comfortable long-distance driving. At a lower cost.

And, of course, if you want, since I have a car with 18" wheels, I have a 2003 M45 that I would love to trade - evenly, of course - for your car.

Z

[lawman12]

If you are sold on Tein then get the CS version vs. the Flex. Flex will be waaaay too stiff for you. The CS version is much better and if you also get the EDFC you can change the damper on the "fly". If you want to drop your M down a lot (does not seem like you need too) then the Teins have limits.

JIC is also another brand to look at, which I have. JIC also has damper adjustment but not a EDFC like Tein. JIC will allow you to drop it low.