Adjusting Coilovers

[D&M2]

OK. I admit it, I'm coilover challenged.

Originally I figured that the adjustment tool that I had had been damaged so I order up an new one. Looks just like the old one. I also figured that the tip on the tool goes into indentations on the coilover collar. However, when ever I attempt to make an adjustment the tool just slips out of the indentation.

Anyone have any suggestions on how these things are supposed to work effectively because its escaping me thats for sure.

Mike

[FWB]

Originally Posted by D&M2

OK. I admit it, I'm coilover challenged.

Originally I figured that the adjustment tool that I had had been damaged so I order up an new one. Looks just like the old one. I also figured that the tip on the tool goes into indentations on the coilover collar. However, when ever I attempt to make an adjustment the tool just slips out of the indentation.

Anyone have any suggestions on how these things are supposed to work effectively because its escaping me thats for sure.

Mike

the wrench supplied with my coil overs was a piece of cr** also i bought
an adjustable spanner wrench which works like a dream. here's a link you need to know the dimen. dia of the shock sleeve and the wrench pin size

http://www.mcmaster.com/

type in the search "adjustable spanner"

Fred

[jams]

It is not that difficult, so could it be you have the wrong size wrench for your coilovers. I have QA1's and if I remember correctly there is a different size wrench for each nut. The main nut is larger than the locking nut and each one requires a slightly different size wrench. I purchased QA1 wrenches from Summit.

[FWB]

Originally Posted by jams

It is not that difficult, so could it be you have the wrong size wrench for your coilovers. I have QA1's and if I remember correctly there is a different size wrench for each nut. The main nut is larger than the locking nut and each one requires a slightly different size wrench. I purchased QA1 wrenches from Summit.

in my case the wrench supplied was stamped steel, i could use it but i noticed the galling from the poor quality of the wrench. the new wrench is forged and machined it feels like the engagement is much more than the old wrench.
the adjustable wrench will do both diameters since they are within the same
range for the wrench. it has not slipped and my knuckles like that.

[D&M2]

Thanks for the information. I'm travelling this week but hopefully I can follow up on this when I get home.

Mike

[scottj]

I put needle thrust bearings and washers on each damper so I can adjust them by turning the spring by hand. I think I got the bearings from McMaster-Carr.

Scott

[FWB]

when i bought the set-up 2 years ago from heidt's the carerras they supplied
had the needle bearings with them. i bought the mustang II upper and lower
control arms and wilwood brakes with 11" rotors the lowers took the coil overs
instead of the stock spring set up. this car is a 1979 so the front end needed attention the cost of repairing what was there compared to replacement
to the tubular stuff was minimal

[JCoop]

Don't forget, the coils and shocks need to be unloaded, so jack the car up and let the wheels hang. Easiest with the wheels off. If the tip slips off, your tool is too small. The tool's knuckle should rest almost halfway around from the tip.

[FWB]

Originally Posted by JCoop

Don't forget, the coils and shocks need to be unloaded, so jack the car up and let the wheels hang. Easiest with the wheels off. If the tip slips off, your tool is too small. The tool's knuckle should rest almost halfway around from the tip.

good point......

[D&M2]

That explains why the current tool just slips out as it only makes it about 1/3 the way around.

Thanks to the tip.

[D&M2]

Thanks FWB,

I received the adjustable spanner from McMasters yesterday and it works great. Always helps to have the right tool.

Mike

[jimw427]

I adjusted mine this past week to get a little more tire clearance, and now I have a slight squeak when pressure is pushed on them. any ideas or suggestions ? a little wd40 on the coil ? Time ? Wear ?

Jim

[FWB]

a squeek is usually one of the rubbers either shock bushing or the spring
rubber. i would not use wd-40 it may deteriorate the rubber not to mention
the chance of it getting on the rotors or pads. silicon spray is the best bet
usually the squeek is temporary until the rubber seats to the new position
you generated by adjusting the spring rate.

[FWB]

Originally Posted by D&M2

Thanks FWB,

I received the adjustable spanner from McMasters yesterday and it works great. Always helps to have the right tool.

Mike

kool, mine said "armstrong" on the handle when it came, is that what yours is?

Fred

[D&M2]

Hi Fred,

Yup that's the one.

Mike