best lowering combination
 

which would you all recommend? like which struts paired up with which type of coilovers or spring? just curious because i see a lotta people complain about bumpy rides when lowering the 1st gen protege.

-phil

IMHO, your best bets are the Ford ZX2 S/R struts by Tokico ($160 for all 4) and either Eibach, Suspension Techniques or H&R springs (ranges from $199 - 250 for all 4)

If you want coilovers, go for Ground Control, avoid the WeaponR's, those are the bouncy ones.

the struts can be found here:
www.oemfordparts.com

the springs can be found all over....
www.corksport.com
www.nopi.com
etc, etc, etc

heavy spring rate = bounce depends what you want too looks or prefromance ? I have kyb gr-2's with eibachs , and I love em I race and commute on them too

i like looks and performance hehehe. thanks guys for postin up information. hope more people do also

-phil

If price isn't an issue (which usually IS an issue), mazdaspeed makes struts for the G1 pros, but they are mucho dinero $$$.

I agree with mazdaspeedwest that your best bet for performace would be the tokico zx2s with a good set of springs. I had always wanted coilovers, but I don't think I'm going to get them now. I doubt I would adjust the ride height often enough to justify the extra money for coilovers (which isn't the ONLY thing they're good for, though).

I have KYB gr2 struts with Suspension Techiniques springs on my Gen1. The springs dropped mine about 1.5 inches. I also installed KYB strut mounts because the OEMs were done and the sway bar bushings were replaced with Energy Suspension units. I drive to work from Delaware to Philly everyday. Philly has some rough ass streets and the ride is a bit stiffer than stock but doesn't pound your kidneys to a bloody pulp. It is a well compromised ride with very tight handling. I enjoy it.

93fam,

could you give some details on those KYB strut mounts.

thanks!

well money of course is a problem, but im not gonna drop my car anytime soon. im just gathering info and doing my research ahead of time. i prefer adjustable coil overs over springs becuz of the convenience of adjusting ride height.

-phil

hey wil that sounds interesting. you need to do that test and post the results. btw, jesse, what would this prove if the zip tie brakes or not?

yes, the shinny :rolleyes: part, the shaft. at the bottom not the top.

mazdaspeedwest,

I ordered the strut mounts from The Tire Rack. They were about $36USD each front and $39USD each rear. They're essentially upgraded OEM parts being about 20% stiffer than stock (according to the sales rep I spoke to). It would be in your best interest to replace your mounts anyway while you're upgrading. The part #s are SM5044 (front) and SM5046 (rear) You'll need to order two of each.
talk to ya later