mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

I have a 1990 maxima, and im getting some 16 Riax Seca wheels for it, and since i am now getting wheels i want to lower my car. My car has struts as i assume every maxima came with, and ive heard rumors that you cant work on struts on your own without the right equipment. So i was wondering what all it would take to lower the car myself because im pretty cheap when it comes to paying other people to do work that i could probably do myself. Thanks as always.

Matt93SE

iTrader: (44)

go to any parts store and rent a set of spring compressors... otherwise all you need is basic hand tools, a jack, and jack stands.

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

So all i would have to do is get lowering springs and put them on the struts i already have... its all that simple??

Michael

iTrader: (21)

well no I wouldnt put stock struts on lowering springs...especially stock struts with some miles on them. Its not hard to change the struts though. Expecially if you are doing springs.

If you are going to go real low (Intrax, Sprint) then go with Tokico at a minimum but Koni if you can afford it.

I know some have used KYB (cheapest and just a little better than stock) on the smaller drops such as Eibach etc and have good luck with it. I have KYB on my Intrax (wasnt planned that way...long story) and they are fine for now but I know they will be worn out in no time.

Matt93SE

iTrader: (44)

what he said..

definitely replace your struts while you're doing the job, since you have to tear them apart to install the springs anyway.

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

Okay, im planning like a 1.75 inch drop, that just sounded like a good number from the choices ive seen. Which products do you think would pair up the best for all of this?

Michael

iTrader: (21)

for springs you want Intrax (see my sig or cardomain site on page 15 at my 5spd) or sprint. I prefet Intrax but they are a little more money.

For struts...IF you can afford them get Koni. They are about $150 each though but are adjustable (you have to adjust them before you put them on though) and are the best strut for our car.

If you cant afford the Koni then get Tokico. Do not go with KYB for that big of a drop or you will be replacing them again in a year probably.


Another thing to consider as well is the rest of your suspension components. If your control arm, trailing arms and other suspension bushings are worn out its a good time to replace those as well. Also its a good thing to replace your strut mounts because of age and mileage.

You will also want new dust boots for your new struts.

Matt93SE

iTrader: (44)

everything he said..

do you want the drop for looks, or handling? 1.75" drop is too much for proper handling, and those springs aren't the best out there.. If you want to handle well, then get Eibachs which are about a 1.25" drop. still give the car a nice look, but not ricer-slammed like the civics you see driving around. They are also a bit stiffer than the Intrax and will give you better handling.

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

Im feeling a little lazy on doing research right now, so say i got Intrax springs, and Tokico struts, about how much would i be looking at, just a rough figure would help me alot, thanks

Matt93SE

iTrader: (44)

bout 600 after shipping.

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

I will give consideration to the 1.25 drop, also for my wheels... i am planning on getting 16's because of the ride quality and they arent too expensive, do you think that is a good choice?

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...941883124&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...948379906&rd=1

If anyone ever has the open moment... Those are the products that you said would be the best combo, and if someone could check them out to make sure thats whats good, that would be great. Thanks

Michael

iTrader: (21)

you calling me a ricer


hehe thats ok because I really am but I dont bounce all around like the Civics do.


WAIT a minute...you are lower than I am (yeah I know different suspension but still) so what are you talking about ricer-slammed lol.

Michael

iTrader: (21)

Remember KYBs are the least performing strut for our car (well of the 3 I mentioned).

Also check internetautomar's site out (he will be along shortly I imagine). He is much cheaper on the struts. Not sure about the springs.

16s are fine...check out the 4th or 5th gen 5 spoke wheels. They both look nice on the 3rd gen, are 16s and can be had for pretty cheap.

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

yeah im getting Riax Seca's with tires for 730 installed, as for struts ill keep looking for some konis then. Thanks

internetautomar

iTrader: (30)

I wasn't going to say anything because you guys had it pretty well covered.
so this just basically a bump to let him know who I am

mtnbikeair

iTrader: (4)

Yeah, you responded to my other question about my engine smoke, i must say these forums are very very helpful.

internetautomar

iTrader: (30)

they can be if you learn how to filter out the dreck that gets posted alot and often