Coil Spring Rates

[601HP]

Hey guys. I've been reading through this site for about 3 years, and have been registered for about that long. For most of this 3 year period my user name was different, and recently I re-registered under another user name, so I appear to be a newbie.

I need your opinions regarding front and rear spring rates that work well for you, and have met your needs while doing serious track driving.

I've owned this Hi-Tech Cobra for 11 years but have always used it as a cruise night vehicle. Now I'd like to use it occasionally for the reason the cars were originally intended.

My car is a big block FE, 4" double tube frame as per original car design, coil-overs at each corner, and IRS. I have a front stabilizer bar, but none yet on the rear. I'll be running vintage Goodyears, 6.00-15's and 8.00-15's.

What are your front and rear spring rate preferences, your handling observations, and recommendations?

Thanks,
David

[RACER X #99]

Paging Scott Coyle

[chuckmynatt]

I agree. Scott's running a hi-tec with a Windsor but I'm sure he can help you out. His handle is "Coyled".

Chuck

[601HP]

Thanks.

David

[Clois Harlan]

David,

I race my Cobra (waiting on the new 427 scheduled for arrival this Friday) and with my big block I have been running 600# front springs. I ran my 428 with 500# springs for about a year and then switched to the 600 # springs. I immediately noticed better front end control under hard breaking and off camber turns. I also run coil overs and a 1" front sway bar.

As to the rear sway bar, I took mine off. Really upset the car during high speed turns. Yours may work differently.

Clois

[601HP]

Thanks for that info. I'm at 400# springs on the front now and have felt it needed to be higher, just from street experiences. I was considering going to 500. Sounds like 600 is where I'll end up.

You didn't mention rear spring rates though. Any info there?

Thanks,

David

[coyled]

David, I have had a hi-tech for a number of years. I would run a 600 pound front spring with the current sway bar you are running. I would start with 500 pound rear springs. If it pushes too much, go to 600 pound rear springs. I ran the 600 front, 500 rear for a while, it worked well. Stay way from a rear bar as it can cause the inside tire to unload at the exit, just when you need traction. Good luck, Scott.

[601HP]

Scott,

That's exactly what I was waiting for. I appreciate the response.

David