60 Springs:
Description
This article is from the VW Performance FAQ, by with numerous contributions by Jan Vandenbrande others.
60 Springs:
Springs don't normally wear out. However, there are
competition oriented springs that usually also lower the car
or progressive rate springs that offer a soft ride for
normal cruizing but non-linearly stiffen up as they are
compressed.
One of the things to keep in mind is that springs and shocks
need to be matched to some degree or ride may suffer. Most
engineers are probably familiar with the equations of a
spring and damper combination. Depending on the selected
spring and damping constant (and mass) the combination will
either be underdamped, overdamped, or oscilatory. Using
sport shocks with stock springs may not always be the best
combination, nor may sport springs with soft shocks.
Sporttuning Tip from AutoTech: Do not cut or heat sag
springs to reduce ride height because it does not increase
spring rate increasing the chance of bottoming out and the
chance to damage the chassis. The problems associated with
these modifications include broken strut housings,
misalignments, and broken windshield due to body twist. Heat
sagging also causes the spring material to become brittle
reducing the life of the spring. Stayaway from bargain
springs that use substandard wires.
**WARNING**: Suspension changes will affect the way your
car handles, especially under emergency maneuvers. Therefore
it is highly advised that you familiarize yourself with your
car before you use it in normal traffic conditions. Taking a
performance oriented driving class sponsored by one of the
car clubs is therefore highly advised.
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