THE WORKSHOP
You want to reduce a fair bit of
fender gap for a tighter look. Since
cutting suspension springs will
just lead to more underchassis and
ride problems in the long run, lower-
ing springs with the appropriate spring
rates and a choice of ride height prefer-
ences are recommended.
Removing the wheels and jacking
the car on stands will ensure a
stable work place for this purpose.
Use the correct socket sizes for the nuts
from the wheels to the suspension arms
and the shock mounts. And, of course,
remember where each one goes.
When you’ve pulled out the
damper and spring assemblies,
mount them on a spring compres-
sor to prevent the springs from flying
out of their perches when you loosen
the damper top hats. Safety is your first
priority.
Once the springs have been re-
moved from the dampers, it’s
time to install the new ones. Know
which pair goes to the front and back,
as well as top their tops and bottoms as
the springs are specific to the ends they
will mount to. Remember to tighten the
top hat nuts to secure the springs.
Next to changing wheels, lowering your car is the easiest way
to dramatically alter its looks. Here’s the right way to go about it.
Granted, Philippine roads aren’t exactly lowered-vehicle-friendly, but
lowering one’s car is a sure-fire way of giving your ride that extra X-
factor on the road. Next to installing ride-adjustable coilovers, using
lowering springs is the best way to reduce your ride’s unsightly fender
gap. Plus, there’s a lowering spring for your specific needs.
Do your research when
choosing the ideal lowering
spring for your needs.
Companies who charge
more have done their research
regarding the compatibility of
their products with the car’s
existing dampers. It’s best
to invest in the right set now
than to be disappointed later.
Dropping it low
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2
3
4
THIS IS THE CORRECT WAY TO ACHIEVE THE
STANCE THAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR. SAY
NO TO THOSE DANGEROUS SHORTCUTS
EXTRA TIPS
TIme To geT DowN
Words ANd photogrAphy by mikko d
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vid
DIFFICULTY LeVeL
(^) THIS INVOLVES mORE
WORK THAN A bOLT-ON
PROCEDURE. DO THIS WITH
A CAPAbLE ASSISTANT
112 TOP GEAR PHILIPPINES WWW.topgeAr.com.ph
THE GARAGE
(^) WORKSHOP GLOVES
(^) JACK
(^) JACK STANDS
(^) CROSS WRENCH
(^) SOCKETS
(^) SOCKET WRENCH
(^) mALLET
(^) SPRING COmPRESSOR
THE GEAR
ImPoRTANT THINgS
To CHeCK
(^) While you’re down there, check
for fluid leaks in your dampers.
Who knows? They may need to be
replaced as well.
(^) When removing and reinstalling
the nuts and bolts, spray them with
penetrating oil and water-displac-
ing spray. These should ensure
they go in and out smoothly into
the grooves.
(^) Check for worn-out bushings
and CV joints as well as engine and
transmission leaks. At least you’ll
know what to fix next time around.