Hello! I have been running my stock '06 GPW for a few events and have been ecstatic with the results so far. I am to the point in which I am looking to make my first modifications. I am hoping to enter my first tour event at Blytheville in October. ( I think. ) If not then I am hoping to for sure make Nashville.

I have read all 168 pages of the STR thread and still have questions. I have learned a lot. I think I can actually get the basics of tuning the suspension down without much trouble.

Here is my first question....

My first move was Wheels/Tires and now my second move is going to be shocks/springs. I have spoke with Beau @ performanceshock, waiting on a return call from Lee @ Koni, and will call Propartusa today. After talking with Beau he really has me considering the Ohlin DFV shocks. He feels they are way better than revalved Konis and contests locals in CA are running them with great success. My initial concern is the rates that come with them are 572 front / 458 rear seem low compared to those everyone is running. Beau is contesting with higher end shocks you don't need to run the higher rates (ie..750/600) because they react better. Now we are getting into the realm of "I just don't know enough". BTW...my car is primary AutoX so comfort is not a huge priority.

Here is a link to the Ohlins we are talking about. The price is actually $2699 not $2999.

http://performanceshock.com/ohlins-r...v-shocks-p-864

I know I didn't really post a question. I am looking for opinions.

Thanks! Berry

 

Too much money for an unproven setup. I would rather get the Ast 5100 singles from Vorahlag with the option to convert to double in the future. I think they are 2800. Sure they will have better resale value the the OTS Ohlins. Or talk with Guy Ankeny (A.R.E.), he revalves PSS Bilstein ( or Penske). He built alot of Autocross purpose shocks and drives a S2000.

 

I don't think that I would spend that much on a single adjustable shock.

Also, his comment on springs is way off. Pick springs and swaybars first to your handling preferences, and then get a shock to handle those forces.

Bottom line, your available grip will determine your spring choices.

 

I would put a sway bar as a higher priority than shocks/springs, And I would DEFINiTELY go with stiffer springs.

 

I have Tein SRC's and they handle 900/800 lb. springs no problem. And yes, these shocks do things when you turn the knobs... I'd be happy to share some shock settings as well... I've spent a good amount of time tuning these shocks.

You should be able to find a set used for around $2k. They come with the spherical top hats and everything... so it's a bolt in setup.

 

BlueGumby - I will give him a call. Thank for the lead.

Bronx, Mike, Robinson - Thanks for the input, especially the quote, "too much for an unproven setup". I guess that is why I have been holding back on taking the plunge with the Ohlins. They do have a good track record but I can't dig up anything with the S2000 involved.

So from what you guys are saying, I need higher spring rates and only my driving style will ultimately tell me if I made the right choice. The more I read I might just be better off going cheaper here till I nail down the appropriate spings tied w/swaybar setup. As a starting point, I am thinking 750f/600r would be a low end starting point and just going the route of revalved Koni Sports. Then when the time is right going with a more high end shock. I am going to lower my budget to stay below $2500 and unless there is a magic bullet shock between Konis and there then I guess Konis it is.

(off note: any of you guys going to Blytheville or Nashville later in the year? I will be there. )

 

I don't have any experience with the Ohlins on a car, but the one I had on one of my dirt bikes was incredible. I am sure you could run somewhat higher spring rates on them.


I would go ahead and spend the money on the shocks you want rather than buy lesser shocks then replace them with the shocks you really wanted in a year. It would be less hassle and cheaper in the long run.

 

If your refering to the Nashville one thats on the speedway then, I'll for sure be there. As for blytheville it on depends on work. If I'm off then I should be there. I think Blytheville has a curse on me though. I've been twice and both times I've got there and had car issues. I've never once had a car issue locally but as soon as I drive 6 hours to Blytheville somthing always pops up. The first time it was a oil pressure issue (my fault, dont ask ) The second time it was a weak clutch and a bad steering rack.


As for shocks I'm gonna vote double adjustable konis, maybe a mono-tube koni. If you wanna go alittle more high end I recommend a double Adj AST, or used moton or jrz.

Used motons are like gold!

Basicly just buy somthing double adjustable with a good name backing it.

 

Call jeff wrong at pro parts. He set up one of the cars here in so cal with 30 series koni shocks, and they work pretty well. Compression adjustment is a pain, but other than that they are decent for the price, which I think is around 2500. The shocks did very well last weekend. The car decimated a certain yellow MX5 last weekend muhahaha.

 

I just spoke w/Jeff and he does suggest Koni 30 series. They are mono-tube and DA. I left my notepad at work and think it was close to $3k w/springs and pillow mounts. He also suggested I start with something like a 750f/600r setup. The only drawback to me is that the turn around is about 4 weeks from the time I order. Yikes. I am not very patient.

Josh - Used Motons? Those are pretty much extinct and if they are sighted they are gone before you even saw them.