Hey 993 Guru's.....another rookie question. The ride height on my 97 Cab is stock. The car has 17" wheels with factory Michelin tires. I notice that most of the cars I see here are much lower. My question, how low will the stock suspension go? What's the best way to lower the car? Pro's vs. Con's? Thanks......

 

I'm no guru, but I have a small amount of feedback on the subject as I just spoke to my shop about the same question (I have a '96 coupe with 18" turbo twists, which actually makes my "gap" look bigger!!)... Apparently, if your shocks are still in good shape, you can replace the springs only with European spec springs (HBs, etc.). This will result in a lowering of around .75" to 1". The car will need a full four wheel alignment afterwards, and my quote for the whole job was around $1,500.

 

Here it is... I got teased by a few when I posted her!! I don't think it's THAT bad... just needs an inch or so. I think my photo angle may have magnified the issue.

 

Do a search for "ride height", "PSS9" or "Bilstein HD" and I think you will find any answer to suspension questions that you may have. Since the factory shocks are such crap, most people have replaced them with the PSS9s or the Bilstien HD with ROW or H&R springs...

I'm going to go the PSS9 route when I have a good month in my sales job, I'm salivating at the thought of it. Just make sure that whenever you take the plunge you go to a shop for the corner balance that understands kinematic toe...

 

Do a search for 'row', 'm030', 'bilstein', 'H & R', etc. I have considered this same issue, there is a WEALTH of info on the subject. I also found an excellent article on Robin's p-car.com site. I think it was under the suspension or DIY-suspension catergories, it outlines options and related costs. Good luck!

 

Thanks Guys, I'll pursue the aftermarket world......I have a feeling this is gonna be one of those...."while I'm at it I may as well....." deals.....

 

$1,500 for springs and alignment? Springs - $350, alignment - $350 where does the other half go?

 

They don't install themselves. Changing springs is more work than replacing with new coilovers, which is why a lot of people get new shocks at the same time. Conventional wisdom around here is the factory shocks can be toast at as little as 20,000 miles.

Greg H.

 

If you read through the archives, you'll find that the $350 includes install of the springs and alignment without corner balance. There a couple of places in Southern Cal that is popular. I got mine done at Johnson's Alignment in Torrance.

 

I love the ride of my car it still rides like stock but slightly tighter, I can pretty much go over RR crossings without having to slow down. I have Bilstein HDs with ROW M030 springs and lowering collars for the front.

 

Yeah, I think I'll switch from H&R to RoW soon. I also have Bilstein HD's. Can you post pics?

 

Here's pictures with my ride height. I lowered it about 1.5inches

 

It seems like it's the same height as mine. I actually had them raise it a bit so I don't scrape my FTB.

Thanks for sharing!!!

 

That's a great deal. I think installation around here is closer to $400 and I just paid $175 for a questionable alignment and another $200 for the corner balance.

Greg H.

 

Jonathan, Your ride look SWEET! I like the ride height not too low. Depending on what Bilstein struts you have(US or Euro) you might have to purchase the lowering collars if you go with the M030 springs.