Ready to install new BCRacing BR series coilovers. I have the swift springs and they are setup for street use.

I just removed the oem ones by removing the two upper a arm bolts. Should I measure them and initially adjust the new ones to the same length? I’m sure that I will want to adjust the height so will I have to drive it a bit and then do this whole process again (removing upper an arm bolts) to adjust the coilovers?

 

The ride height settles a little after you install it. I would install it as is, let the car settle and maybe drive it for a few minutes. Then check back the next day to see if you like the height. If not, lift the car back up and adjust.

As for the fronts, the upper control arm gets in the way of the spanner wrenches, so use a strap wrench and you don't have to undo any upper control arm bolts.

When torquing the bolts, be sure to torque the lower and upper control arm bolts with the suspension at normal ride height. Do not tighten with the suspension at full drop as it will damage your bushings. There is also a warning in the manual about this.

Merry Christmas!

 

v8vdrew, thank you for the reminder on torquing under load. Followup question on ride height. To adjust these the bottom lock has to be loosened with spanner wrench and the shock turned in or out to lower or raise ride height. So I wonder if I will have room to do this just by removing lower shock mount bolt or if upper a arm bolts need to be removed too.

 

V8vdrew, Never mind about my last question. I just watched a video and see what you meant. Thanks!

 

Awesome! Best of luck. I would torque everything up and then make adjustments to the ride height and damping. From what I remember, I could do everything without removing any of the suspension components.

 

I mark the adjusting rings with paint or sharpie on 1 point to get accurate count on turns. Also use a brass punch to lock or unlock the rings if the tool doesn't fit well.
Sounds like you have it figured out, enjoy.

 

thanks…good tips