Guys:

This is an earlier message I posted (in the wrong section). Could you guys review and post your comments? Thanks!

When installing aftermarket Sport springs, is it:

[1] A "trial-and-error" ordeal. Meaning, install springs, check wheelwell gap, add/remove pads, repeat?

OR

[2] A "calculated" ordeal. Meaning, based on the stock wheelwell gap, Sport spring data, and type of car one can determine exactly what pad combination(s) to use to achieve
the desired wheelwell gap PRIOR to actual installation?

I'm curious because I want to give my mechanic the proper pad(s) in advance of the installation of Eibach Sport springs (all 4 corners) and Koni shocks (front only). Are the pads inexpensive enough that I just purchase an assortment? What sizes do they typically come and approximate cost? I'm running 215/45ZR-17 tires and have about a 2.5" - 3" gap on the fronts. What is a typical gap; 1" - 1.5"?

Thanks again for input !

Brian (1986 190E 2.3-16V w/ stock suspension))

do the calculations as well as you can in order to save the technician work and save you money because if the tech has to do the work several times in order for you to be happy with the outcome he will most likely bill you for the additional time. I have notice several other posts about spring pads and which ones to use. you may want to look through the archives and collect a little more info before you make a decision. I would be happy to aid in your selection process, what springs are you considering? how much lower are you trying to go, as opposed to factory? what are you trying to accomplish, i.e. racing, appearance, performance ?

Thanks, Luke

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Luke Pavlick
Performance Specialist (ASE Certified Master Tech)
The Tire Rack
(click banner at top of the page
to visit Tire Rack)

luke,
i have a 1989 300e (w124) and just recently purchased a set of eibach pro-kit springs.. i too have the same question regarding the spring powering heights....how much of a drop is atrributable solely to the springs...i know that spring pads can vary the dropping height in conjunction with the springs, but until i have a number for the drop height that only the SPRINGS give, then it is quite difficult for me to calculate the total lowering height achieved with the different pads, and thus which pad to choose to achieve my desired height....please give me the lowering height that the eibachs will give compared to stock springs....in addition, what is a the minimum wheel/fender clearnace that i should leave for my car, front and back...i am not into performance, only into the appearance...thanks for all the help..appreciate it...

ben

its really trial and error. what i did is i had my mechanic install the springs with the stock pad on my 16V. ran the car for 2months until the spring settles. from there on you can decide on the pad thickness. this way you only have to redo the pad only once. i had my mechanic do everything the same day. it took him three times. couple of months went by, with the addition subwoofer. i was back in the shop.