protejay

what do you think?... i like the OEM spring clearance AND don't want to spend the money on new lowering springs...for ref, i'm also goin to use MCP's upper strut mounts.

it just seems like the best deal - but would it work OK together? or should i look into something else?...

protejay

OK, Tom and Darryl both had Eibach springs when they installed their ZX2 struts...i'm assuming those springs were specifically for the Protege??...but were fine to use with the zx2's...

So, what if you used both the ZX2 struts AND the Eibach ZX2 springs FOR the Escort ON our Protege??...would it have less of a 'lowering' effect on our Proteges since they are lighter than the Escort??? Says they lower the 'scort 1".

Sorry, but i'm clueless 'bout all the spring/stut combos...i've tried reading all the threads, but its been tough to get it clear in mind

Also, curious if anyone knows anything 'bout the KYB E-Spec struts on corksport other than they're xpensive?!

Thanks

temrich

You will get a benefit, but be aware the struts are machined down 1" to work with the Eibach springs. With the stock springs the strut will be pulled up and won't be operating in its ideal range. It will be better but not as good as with the springs.

I say go with both, spend the extra money. Also, if your car has lots of miles, get a new pair of upper strut mounts - the bearings and rubber tend to wear out and make the front end sloppy. They shouldn't cost more than $20 each.

That's my opinion, and I may be wrong.

tom

mazdaspeedwest

The ZX2 is only a hair heavier than the Protege and i wouldn't think the spring rates to differ much if at all between the 2, but i could be wrong. But, the MX3 springs are stiffer.

I agree the struts will work best with the springs and the upper bearings will need to be swapped for the ZX2 bearings. (front only)

my website has a full how-to on installing the struts and the bearings, click my link under my sig picture, then How-To's.

protejay

actually, i was comparing the Eib Pro springs with the Eib S/R springs... in other words, using Pro Eib with the S/R struts vs using the S/R Eib with the S/R struts. are ya confused? i am...

anyways, i'm probably beatin a dead horse - i'm sure there's no BIG diff...

so, thanks to Tom, Jesse, and Darryl.

looks like MCP stut mounts, S/R struts, S/R Eib springs, and those GREAT metal bearings!!!

and Darryl, i've been looking at your HowTo's a lot lately - they're a BIG HELP!

mazdaspeedwest

My pleasure, that's what they're there for