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LaszloT
07-23-2013, 04:10 PM
Folks,
What do you think about pairing Swift Spec-R springs with Koni Inserts for my '04 WRX? It's a daily driver but I'm doing a collection of Nav Rallies, Auto-X and Time Attack events as well (5 - 6 per season).

I like that the springs don't lower the vehicle too much, because a practical ride height is one of the things I love about the WRX.

Koni Insert Instructions [some assembly required - NAISOC pics]
http://www.koni-na.com/pdf/boltstrut.pdf

Swift Spec-R Springs
http://www.tougetuning.com/store/swi...sti-p-831.html

"...made for true track racing enthusiasts that wants to take their vehicle to the next level."

STeveD
07-23-2013, 06:15 PM
I'm a big fan of Swift Spec-R springs. The near equal front and rear rate makes autoslalom and track handling a lot easier, while not hurting the street driveability. Konis... when properly installed... simply do what they should and are predictable. Shame they don't make a double-adjustable (compression / rebound) for our cars. MikeV's STi Pinks on Koni's were quite pleasant on the street and allowed him to hang with STi's through all the corners. The extra 50lbs/inch spring rate on the Spec-R's should be more entertaining.

The only other upgrade to consider would be German dampeners with those springs... but that's some serious coin.

LaszloT
07-23-2013, 08:39 PM
Can there be too much spring for a strut built up this way, or is that a wayward concern?

dubya_rx
07-23-2013, 10:21 PM
See if you can find used/dead struts to use instead of your struts (unless your struts are done anyway). Then you can swap back to stock whenever you need.

STeveD
07-24-2013, 07:57 AM
Can there be too much spring for a strut built up this way, or is that a wayward concern?

You're asking about the physical capabilities of the strut spring perch or body for lateral loads? Theoretically as long as corrosion isn't severe, you'll be fine with any spring rates on the commercial market. Those struts are designed to absorb full chassis load even when bottomed out. You do have to check the tightness of the bolt when they're new (right Mike?) or even better.... tack weld the bolt and washer in the bottom to make sure that it doesn't move.

Can your spring overwhelm the rebound valving? Theoretically, yes. I'd Email Koni to ask them what is the maximum linear spring rate their rebound valving on these specific strut inserts can handle.

MikeV
07-24-2013, 08:44 AM
That's right, loctite is your friend.

Other options:
- RCE black or yellow springs
- Tokico Dspecs (I think Bryce used to run these)
http://turninconcepts.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_9_7_480_490_509_800&products_id=1098

LaszloT
07-29-2013, 05:09 PM
That's right, loctite is your friend.

Other options:
- RCE black or yellow springs
- Tokico Dspecs (I think Bryce used to run these)
http://turninconcepts.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_9_7_480_490_509_800&products_id=1098

I'd like something inexpensive, MikeV. Maybe I don't have to upgrade the struts to adjustable, and focus on replacing just the springs and anti-sway bars instead.

The COBB springs lower the WRX too much.

What do you guys think about the Eibach PRO- or SPORT-PLUS kit instead? The drop is 30mm front and 20mm rear, which is about perfect, and there's good value with the sway bar set and expect it to complement the springs well if they are bought as part of a handling package.

PRO-PLUS | Performance Springs and Sway Bars (Step 1 + 2)
http://performance-suspension.eibach.com/performance_suspension/suspension_systems/pro-plus

LaszloT
07-30-2013, 11:22 AM
And the article below is one reason why I don't want to lower my WRX significantly. The other reason is that a practical ride height is part of the charm for WRX and STi's, and rare for real performance cars.

NASOIC article: Lowering your Impreza?
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1030221

STeveD
07-30-2013, 10:58 PM
It's up to you. The low starting variable-rate of the spring will compress initially distorting the geometry before the higher rate kicks in. I think that the Swift Spec R, RCE Yellow, and RCE Black with dampers are the better thing to save for.

LaszloT
07-31-2013, 09:47 AM
It's up to you. The low starting variable-rate of the spring will compress initially distorting the geometry before the higher rate kicks in. I think that the Swift Spec R, RCE Yellow, and RCE Black with dampers are the better thing to save for.

Yep, you are right STeveD. I'm coming to that conclusion slowly.

PaulH
08-04-2013, 09:59 PM
I went with the Epic springs (formerly ProDrive USA) along with Koni inserts and TIC "spacer". The spacer allows the koni to sit lower in the strut and maintain its travel while the springs lower the height by about 1 1/2" in front and 1" on back for 04 wrx wagon. Ride is firm but not harsh. I am very happy with the results. Yes I used locktite. I picked up a set of old struts. If you need a hole cutter I have a high quality one that you can borrow if you decide to go this route.
Paul

LaszloT
08-07-2013, 07:57 PM
If you need a hole cutter I have a high quality one that you can borrow if you decide to go this route.
Paul

Thanks Paul, I will likely take you up on your very helpful offer.