Since my last thread got a little...hmm, how you say...off the topic (with help from me :mdrmed: ), I thought I'd start another for those interested in suspension instead of idle banter. :)

I'm currently waiting on some MazdaSpeed shocks and springs to arrive from the US and in the meantime I'd be grateful for recommendations as to an installer in Sydney.

I'm happy enough to go back to the suspension shop that installed my Whiteline sways. They seem a professional enough outfit.

However, if some of you have had suspension installed on your 8 elsewhere and have been happy with the job, please let me know. Prefer northside for my own convenience but am happy to take it elsewhere.

Once landed I will advise all up cost in AUD for the benefit of others considering this option.

I have sought advice on appropriate camber, castor and toe settings in the Wheels, Tyres, Brakes and Suspension forum (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=100840). Feel free to offer advice here too.

front installation is p!ss easy... the rear will be abit of PITA...
you may want to make sure that the installer dont lose/break the plastic clips in the boot ;-)
go to a place where they can do the wheel alignment as well?

front installation is p!ss easy... the rear will be abit of PITA...
you may want to make sure that the installer dont lose/break the plastic clips in the boot ;-)
go to a place where they can do the wheel alignment as well?

Yeah, I've already gathered tha the rear is difficult.

I found this DIY thread: http://www.swankmonkey.com/mazda/rx8/2004/suspension/coilovers/

I figure that if I can't find an installer with RX8 experience, I can at least print that out to give them an idea what's involved.

The place who installed my Whitelines can do alignments, etc. I just thought I'd find out if anyone else knows of a reputable shop to do the work.

Whiteline sways with MS springs/ shocks I feel is overkill. The MS sways are only 10% stiffer than stock,. Adding any sway stiffer than those will lead to a much stiffer ride , and personally I feel is not needed. The car with just MS springs/shocks and standard sways has just about zero body roll.
I have just had an alignment done and if I can find the printout, I will let you know the settings. Car feels great with them.

Finally, just replaced shitty stock bridgestones for Maxxis MA-Z1's . These tires grip fantastically well both wet and dry, are quiet and smooth riding , all for the princely sum of $209 per tire!!!!!!!!.

Regards
Rexi

Whiteline sways with MS springs/ shocks I feel is overkill. The MS sways are only 10% stiffer than stock,. Adding any sway stiffer than those will lead to a much stiffer ride , and personally I feel is not needed. The car with just MS springs/shocks and standard sways has just about zero body roll.
I have just had an alignment done and if I can find the printout, I will let you know the settings. Car feels great with them.

Yeah, I'm alive to that as a potential problem.

I thought I'd get the suspension fitted first and see what it's like. I still have the OEM sways, so if necessary I can retro-fit them and decide later whether to sell the Whitelines and get the MS sways instead.

Would appreciate the settings. :)

Whiteline sways with MS springs/ shocks I feel is overkill.
is that an opinion or a fact?

MS sways are only 10% stiffer than stock,. Adding any sway stiffer than those will lead to a much stiffer ride , and personally I feel is not needed.

each to their own?

The car with just MS springs/shocks and standard sways has just about zero body roll.
and can almsot be improved by a set of sway bars....

thansk for your time and effort in posting though....

Mate , as you can see, it is my opinion. BTW I do have the MS suspension installed and am only offering my opinion and advise. Do you have anything further to add.!!!!!!!

Rexi

Mate , as you can see, it is my opinion. BTW I do have the MS suspension installed and am only offering my opinion and advise. Do you have anything further to add.!!!!!!!

Rexi

I appreciated the opinion and advice Rexi. ;)

I'll keep you posted as to what it's like with the Whiteline sways when the MS components are installed. :fingersx:

Mate , as you can see, it is my opinion. BTW I do have the MS suspension installed and am only offering my opinion and advise. Do you have anything further to add.!!!!!!!

Rexi
no, as long as they are your opinions... i thought you were going to mention anything technical or proven facts... guess not.

BUMP.

Any suspension shop recommendations guys/gals?

My parts have left the US and are en route. :wiggle:

I could recommend Melb.. lol My friends hubby is mechanic lol Hes doing my next mod for me soonish............ :)
But sorry Dave.. lol I can tell you labour cost will try F**K ya!!

Thanks Kall. :)

I'm gonna stick with my local joint having received a couple of other recommendations to go there. My service guy from Crookie even said he'd go down to assist if necessary (it's just down the road from Crookie Mazda). I thought that was pretty nice of him.

The first two shocks arrived today. I've just unwrapped them - blue and shiny. Wheeee!!! :mdrmed:

:blue: :us4allswi :dubs: :fruit:

If that fails, you can always head over to Belgarage - they're excellent

The first two shocks arrived today. I've just unwrapped them - blue and shiny. Wheeee!!! :mdrmed:

:blue: :us4allswi :dubs: :fruit:

can someone put up one of those.... "this thread is useless without pix" smilies... :lol2: :suspect: :scratchhe :rollingla

can someone put up one of those.... "this thread is useless without pix" smilies... :lol2: :suspect: :scratchhe :rollingla

Sorry Eric. I'm hopeless with cameras.

I suppose I could take a shot with my mobile but I wouldn't have a clue how to get it from mobile to web.

You're not missing much - look like normal shocks with a blue barrel.

Hopefully receive part 2 of the shipment today or tomorrow.

awwwww blues my fav colour.......... i got yellow atm ;) soon i'll have different colour, not a fan of the colour! but oh well.. lol

Mine too. Didn't know they'd be blue - a happy surprise.

Some blue calipers and wheel nuts might be in order down the track... :angel:

yep yep

i think u can get some blue rays nuts off ebay, noiceeeeeeeee
dark blue calipers... light blue mite be too ghetto ;)

yep yep

i think u can get some blue rays nuts off ebay, noiceeeeeeeee
dark blue calipers... light blue mite be too ghetto ;)

Yeah - I nearly bought the rays nuts that someone here was selling but decided against it. Never mind - can pick some up elsewhere as you say.

Also agreed on the dark blue. Wouldn't want to look ghetto would I? :cwm27:

Hopefully receive part 2 of the shipment today or tomorrow.
woo hoo... its like christmas in october.... :cwm27:

This thread is f&((ing :boring: without pics :yawn:

This thread is f&((ing :boring: without pics :yawn:

were you swearing....?

can someone put up one of those.... "this thread is useless without pix" smilies... :lol2: :suspect: :scratchhe :rollingla

lol i can so see Dave tomorrow going "nooooooooo my new thread gone off topic again" maybe u shoulda started this thread after u got the parts installed Dave ;)

^^^^^ Was Ray happy that you wanted his nuts Dave?

This thread is f&((ing :boring: without pics :yawn:

Do you really want to see photos of a pair of blue shocks? :doh: :D:

They're just parts. I'll take some shots of the car after they're installed.

woo hoo... its like christmas in october.... :cwm27:

:smiley309

lol i can so see Dave tomorrow going "nooooooooo my new thread gone off topic again" maybe u shoulda started this thread after u got the parts installed Dave ;)

:werd:

Ahh, whaddya gonna do? :mdrmed: :mdrmed:

^^^^^ Was Ray happy that you wanted his nuts Dave?

Not sure about Ray, but the guy who owned Ray's nuts was sure keen to sell them... :cwm27:

Do you really want to see photos of a pair of blue shocks? :doh: :D:

They're just parts. I'll take some shots of the car after they're installed.
I love to have some close up of the parts please. Label on the shock and the look of the spring.

If you kindy do.....

I love to have some close up of the parts please. Label on the shock and the look of the spring.

If you kindy do.....

I'm happy to do that if someone can tell me how to get photos from my mobile onto my computer.

Still waiting on the springs and the other two shocks...

i rekon u should have a Sydney RX8 Shock party!!!!! Meet up and take pix of shocks ;)

:mdrmed: Wow, what a party that'll be.

Received a notice today that Customs have my remaining stuff. Have to prove I'm under the limit before they'll get 'em to me.

Costs so far have worked out as follows:

Parts - $US636 = roughly $AUD850, depending on the exchange rate when you order them.

Shipping - $US200 for priority shipping. You'll pay a lot less for the slow boat but you'll also wait 4 weeks or so. I'm too impatient for that. :mdrmed:

This all worked out to a snick over $AUD1,150 on the credit card. I don't expect to pay any duty as I'm under the $AUD1,000 limit. GST may be payable though - I'll find out soon enough.

BTW, Jason at OnlineMazdaParts.com told me shipping actually came to $252 and change, but he honoured his quoted shipping price of $200. That kinda service is why so many people prefer him to other online parts places.

I'll report on installation costs later.

Any idea of the spring rates on the new ones?Preferably in pounds as it makes more sense to us old people.....
Cheers
Len

Any idea of the spring rates on the new ones?Preferably in pounds as it makes more sense to us old people.....
Cheers
Len

Sorry Len. I did know but I've misplaced the piece of paper with that info on it.

Apart from the spring rate, you get a 20mm drop on stock ride height.

If I find the spring rate again, I'll PM you.

Front 280
Rear 190

I have been observing for years (2003 Titanium) this is my first post.
Great group.

I am interested in how this goes. I am considering following the leader. With your new Rims have you already or are you expecting to have to roll/trim the internal guard edges?

Also, a before and after would be great - side on.

WElcome boofhead.

Since you have been observing so much, you'll know that who is full of $hit here. :dunno:

Thanks Taka. I will try and keep to the same level as you all have been able to achieve. O look its off topic again - I am fitting right in. :-)

Dave, in your first post you mention camber/castor/toe settings.

With stock suspension, you can SQUEEZE -1.5 camber from the front and -2.5 from the rear with OEM castor settings. However i found that its totaly unbalanced and will understeer badly at the those settings. I go with -1.5 front/back now for track. For Sandown this week I am going to sacrifice some straight line stability and play with more +ve castor (Stock is roughly +6.5) to try and gain some more -ve camber in the front. If I can gain some I will match the rear to that gain.

Cheers

Andrew

I also believe some toe in will negate some of this loss.

Front 280
Rear 190

Thanks Kall. :kiss:

I have been observing for years (2003 Titanium) this is my first post.
Great group.

I am interested in how this goes. I am considering following the leader. With your new Rims have you already or are you expecting to have to roll/trim the internal guard edges?

Also, a before and after would be great - side on.

Hi boofhead. :)

Yes, there's a definite possibility that I'll have to roll the internal guard edges. They're fine at the moment but I think I'll be rubbing on harder bumps once the car is lowered a little.

I'll try to remember to get some before and after shots. If I forget, I'll get some taken of my car and a stock car at the Nats for comparison purposes.

Since you have been observing so much, you'll know that who is full of $hit here. :dunno:

Is that directed at me Taka?

Dave, in your first post you mention camber/castor/toe settings.

With stock suspension, you can SQUEEZE -1.5 camber from the front and -2.5 from the rear with OEM castor settings. However i found that its totaly unbalanced and will understeer badly at the those settings. I go with -1.5 front/back now for track. For Sandown this week I am going to sacrifice some straight line stability and play with more +ve castor (Stock is roughly +6.5) to try and gain some more -ve camber in the front. If I can gain some I will match the rear to that gain.

Cheers

Andrew

I also believe some toe in will negate some of this loss.

Thanks for that advice Andrew. :)

I'm going to plump for a pretty conservative street set up at this stage since my track days are so few and far between. My installer has mucho experience so I'm happy to take his advice and see what he recommends.

Hi boofhead. :)

Yes, there's a definite possibility that I'll have to roll the internal guard edges. They're fine at the moment but I think I'll be rubbing on harder bumps once the car is lowered a little.

I'll try to remember to get some before and after shots. If I forget, I'll get some taken of my car and a stock car at the Nats for comparison purposes.

Dave,

Your drop is only 20mm. My previous drop was double that and I had 19's.. no rubbing. You should be okay. Rubbing is what I encounter when I do full-lock when driving Erics car!! :mdrmed: (but I love it hehehehe)

Is that directed at me Taka?

Whole forums full of it, cars almost 4yrs old - what more can we discuss? :cwm27:

Dave,

Your drop is only 20mm. My previous drop was double that and I had 19's.. no rubbing. You should be okay. Rubbing is what I encounter when I do full-lock when driving Erics car!! :mdrmed: (but I love it hehehehe)

I'm hoping you're right Kall but my offset is at the limit, as this pic hopefully indicates. EDIT - actually, it doesn't show it that well because the top of the tyre is shadowed.

I'm confident the fronts will be okay (given the stock clearance) but I'm still not sure about the rears. :dunno:

I'll soon find out (if Customs ever clear the remaining parts :spank: :mdrmed: ).

Woohoo! Remaining parts cleared Customs with no duty paid. :ylsuper:

Hopefully receive them today or tomorrow. :mdrmed:

Thanks for that advice Andrew. :)

I'm going to plump for a pretty conservative street set up at this stage since my track days are so few and far between. My installer has mucho experience so I'm happy to take his advice and see what he recommends.

I know a lot of people say that you shouldnt run with a lot of -ve camber on the rear when on the street as it will scrub tyres. but I ran around for almost 12 months with -1.5 all around on the street and noticed no real unbalanced wear. But even if you did, you could rotate tyres across every 5000k's. Its definately a nice drive with all that camber.

I know a lot of people say that you shouldnt run with a lot of -ve camber on the rear when on the street as it will scrub tyres. but I ran around for almost 12 months with -1.5 all around on the street and noticed no real unbalanced wear. But even if you did, you could rotate tyres across every 5000k's. Its definately a nice drive with all that camber.

All the guys who responded to a similar query in the suspension forum reckon that I should keep the settings stock for the MS suspension.

I'm leaning that way too, subject to any further advice I get from my installer. Can always play with it later once I've got a feel for the car with the new bits installed.

My thoughts are this. Camber, Castor and Toe settings for street use do not need to be changed for any shock/spring setting. In essence the shocker and spring being changed wont affect the things these setting have.

A side note here to explain that during travel of the wheel the camber and castor are different than when they are in their normal position, ie when they are on the alignment machine. Reason I mention this is that there is the potential for some side effects with stiffer setup. With stiffer setup, the wheel doesnt travel as far and so doesnt go to through as big a change. But thats one of the reasons you go with stiffer setup.

Anyway, back to my point. Yes there is no need to change from the OEM settings and you are right that its probably a good place to start from, however I think you will be doing yourself and injustice to not play around and see the effects of making the changes.

Cheers

Andrew

See how nicely the tit grey reflects the best-coloured 8 there is...

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87506

Let you know that I just put some +32 at the rear and they have minor rubbing to the rear guard. I was surprised that the front is ok.

I have 2.3 degree camber on the rear, but when it leans when I enter the servo last night it has a knocking noise. Since it is my track rim - I don't mind (even Wakefield is smoother than outside my home :p:).

Just reware of the rear guard Dave.

I ask about the rubbing because my set of GMax M078 18x8.5 (offset unknown) rub slightly in the rear under cirtain circumstances. Lowering by 20mm would make the situation worst through the spring rating might address most of it. In anycase, I just need to get around to rolling the rear guades a little - the fronts are fine.

I have the MS suspension on stock wheels and I *love* it! Better performance for a sports car, but still comfortable enough to be my daily driver. My Mazda service department can still do the laser alignment etc as they have a 'sport' setting or whatever it is, for the MS suspension.

I must see more side shots of your car. I love your wheels on the Ti!

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87506

I ask about the rubbing because my set of GMax M078 18x8.5 (offset unknown) rub slightly in the rear under cirtain circumstances. Lowering by 20mm would make the situation worst through the spring rating might address most of it. In anycase, I just need to get around to rolling the rear guades a little - the fronts are fine.
The offset will be a critical factor. I have no prob rubbing with 8" + 40 *my (same as revolver) road wheel it is AOK. Now my track rim with 8.5 +32 - I am not 100% sure :dunno:. It is in fact a 14mm extension towards the outside.

Good luck Dave. You have 3mm inside than my track rim (*yours 8.5 +35 right?). I will let you know later what it is doing on the track.

See how nicely the tit grey reflects the best-coloured 8 there is...


Heh heh, that's one of the things I like about that shot too. Cool reflection.

Pretty good advertisement for Meguiar's Gold Class polish too. I literally hadn't polished the car for months before that shot was taken (and hadn't washed it for a couple of weeks either) and yet it looks bloody pristine.

I must see more side shots of your car. I love your wheels on the Ti!

Thanks for the feedback pools. :)

Here ya go...

The offset will be a critical factor. I have no prob rubbing with 8" + 40 *my (same as revolver) road wheel it is AOK. Now my track rim with 8.5 +32 - I am not 100% sure :dunno:. It is in fact a 14mm extension towards the outside.

Good luck Dave. You have 3mm inside than my track rim (*yours 8.5 +35 right?). I will let you know later what it is doing on the track.

Thanks for the advice Taka.

Yep, 18x8.5 with +35.

I had another look at it yesterday. Depending on the spring rate, I might just get away with it.

Never mind, rolling the rear guards isn't that tough a job - my local smashie loves me anyway. :bootyshak :mdrmed:

Whoops, forgot to say that remaining parts arrived late yesterday arvo at no extra cost.

Car is booked in for Thursday to get them installed. :rock:

Can't wait... :fruit:

THanks Rev. So...what wheels and size? Those are gorgeous.

You don't read do you?

Yep, 18x8.5 with +35.

You don't read do you?

Hah I asked the size even when I saw it a few posts up. Damn. You're a Doll Taka ;) My guess is that adding his auto-sig would probably answer my questions.

Hah I asked the size even when I saw it a few posts up. Damn. You're a Doll Taka ;) My guess is that adding his auto-sig would probably answer my questions.

:rofl: I've got it in my auto-sig on RX8web pools.

But, they're Enkei RP03.

Lighter than OEM rims (and easier to clean).

Rubber is Michelin Pilot Sport 2 in 235 width.

Eric says my new rims are easier to clean then my previous 1s ;) Dont u love gun-metal? cant c the dust half the time hehehe

ooo Dave, how exciting!! Im still waiting for my new toy to arrive... heheh however, flat out with exam study and bloody autosalon preparations I wont have my new stuff installed till prob mid November.. bummer lol oh well! (i know I said no more mods back in errr..... May when I imported the Kit but then got the rims.. and now this.., is there a MODS ANONYMOUS we can attend for this addiction??)

Just remember, the springs will settle even more then wat you will see on Thursday. Are the shocks adjustable? Dont know much about MS sussy, and I really cannot be bothered going and researching it ;) So pardon my stupid question! Like my Konis are adjustable, so I can have it stiff or soft.

Eric says my new rims are easier to clean then my previous 1s ;) Dont u love gun-metal? cant c the dust half the time hehehe

Ha! 'Er indoors cleaned mine today when she cleaned hers. What a woman! :rock: I even got post-purchase marital clearance on the new shocks and springs :angel: (tough to avoid when she looks up the Visa transactions :uhh: :mdrmed: ). She reckons it's good for at least a couple of trips to the Mall :spank: . And you wonder why I'm holding off on FI - I have to double the cost of every mod! :Freak_ani :cwm27:



ooo Dave, how exciting!! Im still waiting for my new toy to arrive... heheh however, flat out with exam study and bloody autosalon preparations I wont have my new stuff installed till prob mid November.. bummer lol oh well! (i know I said no more mods back in errr..... May when I imported the Kit but then got the rims.. and now this.., is there a MODS ANONYMOUS we can attend for this addiction??)

It is pretty cool :mdrmed: . However, I'm gonna have to join MA I think. There's a few house-type things I'm gonna have to pay for in the new year :boring: .

What's the new toy? Or is it a surprise?



Just remember, the springs will settle even more then wat you will see on Thursday. Are the shocks adjustable? Dont know much about MS sussy, and I really cannot be bothered going and researching it ;) So pardon my stupid question! Like my Konis are adjustable, so I can have it stiff or soft.

No, not adjustable. Just a lower, stiffer set-up.

lol u know me... full of surprises ;)

lol u know me... full of surprises ;)

A coilover type surprise?

Dropped the beast off today to have the suspension installed.

Nothing heard yet. Hope they're not going in upside down.

Work's done and paid for.

Labour cost came to $400, which I thought was reasonable for Sydney prices.

So, all up, this mod cost me about $1,500.

Will collect car after work this evening. Can't wait. :rock:

labour cost is VERY reasonable!!!!

congrats dave!!

We WANT pic!

labour cost is VERY reasonable!!!!

congrats dave!!

Thanks Kall. :wink2:

We WANT pic!

Then you better find someone with a camera... :rofl:

Seriously, I think the car is still settling, so it's probably premature to take pics now.

First impressions are limited. Roads were wet and still a bit of peak hour traffic around when I picked the car up, so I couldn't really have a decent go.

However, ride comfort is much better than I thought it would be and the car feels flatter and even more secure around corners. A dawn patrol up the old Pac Hwy or through Galston tomorrow will reveal a little more, but at this stage I think I'm happy to leave the Whiteline sways on it (sorry Tuan ;) ).

I'm a little concerned about the rear guards. Although I didn't detect any rubbing during the short drive home, I think that may be a different story when the car is fully loaded - it looks very tight to me.

I'll find out tomorrow when I take the family to Darling Harbour so the Revolver boys can check out the Motorshow while the Revolver girls do whatever girls do.

F@RK!

Good buy, can't wait for the review Revolver and Pics! You owe me pics!

Then you better find someone with a camera... :rofl:

Sigh... First you have no GPS and now you don't even own a camera.. :SHOCKED:

Tyre Rubbing?

Sigh... First you have no GPS and now you don't even own a camera.. :SHOCKED:

Yep, never owned a camera in my life. Just never been interested.

'Er indoors has a digital though. If I remember, I'll take it on my dawn patrol tomorrow and try to click off a few shots.

Where's Eric when you need him. :mdrmed:

Tyre Rubbing?

What other kind of rubbing is there Taka? :cwm27:

I've arranged to swing by my local smashie tomorrow morning to get his view. Apparently there's a method of rolling guards these days that doesn't require re-painting.

What other kind of rubbing is there Taka? :cwm27:

I've arranged to swing by my local smashie tomorrow morning to get his view. Apparently there's a method of rolling guards these days that doesn't require re-painting.
Hmmmm.. I dunno :naughty:

Good luck with the rolling. Actually what I did was to make it rub a touch more - then you can see where it is rubbing. My mechanic trimed the guard a bit and roll it with a wooden bar - only so slightly so the paint did not crack.

Be careful as if you crack the paint - you need to repaint it to avoid rusting. I will put on some derusting agent on this weekend after a wash (even the paint did not crack) - just on the safe side

and if they tell u the rear is fibreglass, THEY ARE LYING ;)

Hmmmm.. I dunno :naughty:

Good luck with the rolling. Actually what I did was to make it rub a touch more - then you can see where it is rubbing. My mechanic trimed the guard a bit and roll it with a wooden bar - only so slightly so the paint did not crack.

Be careful as if you crack the paint - you need to repaint it to avoid rusting. I will put on some derusting agent on this weekend after a wash (even the paint did not crack) - just on the safe side

Yeah, I'm yet to be convinced either but we'll see.

When you say he trimmed the guard back a bit, did he actually cut back some of the rolled under edge? What did he do it with?

If worse comes to worse, I'll just get the guards repainted. Might get the nose done as well while I'm at it - lose the stone chips (temporarily :rolleyes: ). Of course, if I can avoid that, I will.

BTW, for those late to this thread, if you have stock rims you won't have to worry about this problem when fitting the MS suspension.

and if they tell u the rear is fibreglass, THEY ARE LYING ;)

CORRECT! ;) :mdrmed:

When you say he trimmed the guard back a bit, did he actually cut back some of the rolled under edge? What did he do it with?

A cut saw powered by air compressor. And polish the edge with a sander powered by the compressor.

It is about 2-3mm of guard taken off.

Thanks. :)

I'll do a write up with some pics shortly but the verdict is in :icon_no2: - I will need to roll the guards :( .

It is not rubbing all that often but on larger potholes and ruts it is hitting and the sharp inside edge of the guard will damage the tyres over time (or perhaps very quickly if it hits hard enough :scared: ).

Took it to my local smashie today and they're going to do it on Wednesday. They still think they can do it without needing a respray but warned I might be able to detect a minimal ripple in the paint. Since it's gotta be done, I'll just have to wait and see if I can live with the finish or go to the extra expense of repainting.

It is not rubbing all that often but on larger potholes and ruts it is hitting and the sharp inside edge of the guard will damage the tyres over time (or perhaps very quickly if it hits hard enough :scared: ).

Is this because your new wheels and tyres are wider than normal or are you suggesting that the problem would be there even with the standard wheels and tyres? :eek:

I am keen on these springs and shocks, but I am not interested in modifying bodywork :icon_no2:

BTW, for those late to this thread, if you have stock rims you won't have to worry about this problem when fitting the MS suspension.

As stated earlier, you won't need to worry about it Adrian.

My rims are 8.5 with a 35 offset. OEM rims will not cause the same problem.

I will do a longer report in a sec but the short answer is that for $1,500 odd, this is the best mod you can do on the car IMHO. I'm stoked.

Well, had a chance for a longer drive this morning and I'm happy to report that these new shocks and springs are simply awesome.

Got up too late to make an Old Pac Hwy run worthwhile, so just had a lash up McCarr's Creek Road instead. Actually, this proved to be the better option anyway because in sections the road is pretty bumpy, which allowed me to get a decent idea of ride comfort, etc. It also has plenty of corners marked 25-45km/h, if you know what I mean ;) .

Handling: I'm no motoring journo, so I'm not sure what to say except that there is a much greater feeling of confidence when attacking the twisties. The car is flatter, with minimal body roll. Turn-in feels even sharper. Corner speeds are definitely higher (I know this road reasonably well, and I've never gotten through some corners as fast as I did this morning). Much harder to shake the rear loose when getting the power down on exit - it just seems to grip and go. Really, the best way to describe it is that this is how the car should be built - it just seems to fit the car's character much better.

Ride: This was perhaps the greatest surprise. Given that I'm running the Whiteline sways (which are stiffer than just about anything else available - as I understand it - and certainly stiffer than the MS sways) and the MS springs and shocks are also generally regarded as one of the stiffer aftermarket suspension upgrades, I was just about ready to don a kidney belt before my first hard thrash. However, the ride is more than tolerable. Yes, it's a bit firmer and surface irregularities are more noticeable, but it's by no means crashy. It maintains decent contact with the road even when hitting ruts and doesn't feel skittish in any way. It may be a bit different when fully loaded but for now I find it no problem at all. Nowhere near as bad as the 350Z (before they sorted the ride problem in later versions).

This sounds like a ramble and I'm sure there's some subjective feel good factor creeping in but I think this was the biggest improvement I've had from any mod so far. And for $1,500 odd, I think it's not that expensive for the gains available. These parts have clearly been developed properly for the RX8. It is not a crude 'drop and stiff' mod but instead simply enhances what we already love about the car's handling.

If you're considering it, all I can say is go for it. I'm stoked!!!!! :D: :D: :D:

Here's some pics (remember, I'm a crap photographer :crazy: so no critics please). BTW, the car is probably still settling onto the new springs so it may drop a little lower over the coming weeks.

DAMN, pics are too large :rant: . Will post them when I can get 'er indoors to resize them for me.

Thanks for the report Dave... I am keen to try this, but it looks like it will have to wait until after Xmas..

dave, start an account on http://www.photobucket.com
and upload any size there, then copy the links here.

Excellent report - You have convinced me to invest in the same. I will be interested in the guard modes as well. I suspected it would be necessary. Best to be prepared.

Hey Dave, re the rubbing tyres - if you haven't sorted it yet, find a wheel place that can roll the fender as per the procedure described HERE (http://www.mazda6tech.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17&Itemid=50) (or hire/borrow/steal the tool and do it yourself). Note the use of a heatgun (a hairdryer works better) to warm the paint to prevent it cracking.

I had this done on my other car a few years ago and it was very successful.

Will

dave, start an account on http://www.photobucket.com
and upload any size there, then copy the links here.

Thanks Kall. :kiss:

I'll give that a try.

Excellent report - You have convinced me to invest in the same. I will be interested in the guard modes as well. I suspected it would be necessary. Best to be prepared.

I've responded to your PM boofhead.

Hey Dave, re the rubbing tyres - if you haven't sorted it yet, find a wheel place that can roll the fender as per the procedure described HERE (http://www.mazda6tech.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17&Itemid=50) (or hire/borrow/steal the tool and do it yourself). Note the use of a heatgun (a hairdryer works better) to warm the paint to prevent it cracking.

I had this done on my other car a few years ago and it was very successful.

Will

Thanks Will - that is a great DIY link. :yesnod:

I think this is exactly what my local smashie is going to do but I'll check. He's Italian and his description of the process was a tad difficult to follow :icon_no2: .

If he's on the wrong track and plans to pull out a wooden stick ( :uhh: ), I'll go elsewhere. Anyone aware of a wheel place in Sydney that does this work?

Will

Maybe you could do a show and tell at the Nationals on Daves car ;) , great DIY link , may get around to doing it myself if i upgrade wheels and suspension .


Michael

Okay, here's my first go at linking to pics in my new PhotoBucket account :fingersx:

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00311.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00311.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00310.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00310.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00309.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00309.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00308.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00308.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00307.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00307.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00306.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00306.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00305.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00305.jpg)
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00304.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00304.jpg)

Woohoo! It worked! :boink:

I'm not usually this successful with technology... :bootyshak :p:

Will

Maybe you could do a show and tell at the Nationals on Daves car ;) , great DIY link , may get around to doing it myself if i upgrade wheels and suspension .


Michael

Michael,

There's too much riding on this getting sorted to leave it till when I get there. I also want to get it done asap before any damage is done to my (very bloody exxy) tyres.

Besides, too much pressure on Will when he no doubt wants to come and have fun rather than work on my car.

I would have been up for this at a cruise or something like that if there was more time available.

Dave

Your ride is looking :ylsuper: , give up your day job and take pics of cars and , sexy women heard Hugh hefner is looking for new talent from Dowunder :)

Michael

Excellent pics and thanks answering the PM.
Time to order the gear and get the guards done.

BTW: I have a Titanium as well :hahano: . Very neat setup.

LOOK its not a 4wd anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hahahahaha awesome Dave :)


edit- and congrats on getting photobucket to work :wiggle:

Nice looking Dave.

Does it really need a roll of the guard?? :dunno:

:icon_tup: wheels look good on the silver colour.

Thanks for the positive feedback guys/gal. :)

Taka, the pics don't really reveal just how tight it is (shadows, etc). And it's not as if it's rubbing all the time. However, bigger bumps taken at speed will cause it and I've got to be mindful of the consequences of a family load full of people and gear.

Tell your kids not to eat :lol:

I think for long term sake - roll them, carefully :dunno:

Will

Maybe you could do a show and tell at the Nationals on Daves car ;) , great DIY link , may get around to doing it myself if i upgrade wheels and suspension .


Michael


Not sure I'd like to try it myself!!

I had it done (on another car) by a techie at a wheel place in Richmond (Melb).

Not sure I'd like to try it myself!!

I had it done (on another car) by a techie at a wheel place in Richmond (Melb).


You know HOW the old saying goes ....

"Its best to learn to shave on someone elses face " :) j/k

Dont worry Dave :Eyecrazy: i am not suggesting Will would do this on your or anyones elses car :hahano:


Michael

Here's some comparison shots:

Before:
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00245.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00245.jpg)

After:
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00309.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00309.jpg)

Before:
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00242.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00242.jpg)

After:
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/th_DSC00310.jpg (http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o49/RevolverRX8/MS%20pics/DSC00310.jpg)

Doesn't appear to be a huge difference but the pics are in different light and from slightly different angles/distances. I guess the car is still settling a little too.

Oh well, thought I'd post them to try and give people considering the mod an idea of the difference in height.

It's only supposed to be 20mm, so it's probably not hugely noticeable anyway.

Being a little nervous about my local smashy's guard rolling expertise, I've decided to get the work done by MRT at Rhodes. They charge between $30-50 per guard depending on what's required.

Otherwise, there's a dude who will come to you for $150 per pair.

Also getting my scuffed rim repaired this week. It was made worse by some inattention and haste last week :uh: . I'm pretty sure my four-lettered exclamation was heard a kilometre away :cussing: . Oh well, at least it was the same rim. Using a bloke all the local smashy's use - he collects and delivers the rim back to you inside 3 days.

Excellent photos - thank you for the comparison and the information.

For those still umming and ahhing, I had the most excellent drive home from sailing tonight.

The confidence this suspension gives is just fantastic. There's simply no weight transfer or lurching into corners. It just stays flat and rockets around. The car feels smoother and the ride is still great.

I'm still stoked... :mdrmed: :mdrmed: :mdrmed:

I have ordered my set. It is being processed. I am looking forward to the result.

I'm thinking about a more fulsome Nats post but in the meantime, some more feedback on the MS suspension for those interested now that I've tracked the car.

Firstly, please understand that I attended the Nats with a strict 'Take it Easy' attitude, so I didn't get to the limits of the car lap after lap. Although I went a bit harder in some corners to experiment with it a little, my lap times aren't an indication of the suspension's ability.

BTW, it's also been nearly a year since I tracked the car, so comparison from memory is probably not all that reliable.

That said, I was very pleased with the car yesterday. Once the track dried out properly and offered more grip, I thought the car was more settled in the transition from turn-in to apex and allowed good power down on exit. I think it is a better match for the Whiteline sways than the OEM shocks and springs and the car felt very controlled and predictable. Under hard braking it didn't deviate from the chosen line at all and I might be imagining this but dive seemed reduced.

I had the guards rolled last week by MRT Performance (anybody want some promotional material, go there - you'll leave with more crap than you can possibly imagine). This has given me better clearance and I didn't notice any rubbing on the track except for when I used one of the more raised ripple strips coming out of the hammerhead turn 8 to set up turn 9.

In short, these probably won't satisfy the hard-core trackday nut who loves to adjust and play, etc. But for Joe Average driver who wants to do the occasional track day and enjoy a better standard of handling on the street without an awful ride, I think they're an excellent, cost-effective solution.

Your car looked great, too, Dave

Your car looked great, too, Dave

Thanks Timbo. ;)

I think it's a nice improvement visually too, but I didn't want to sound like I was boasting. :uhh: :fingersx:

Getting 1:19 is very good considering the restriction you are under Dave.

Good mod hehe

Getting 1:19 is very good considering the restriction you are under Dave.

Good mod hehe

Thanks Taka. I never really put a whole lap together, so I thought that was good enough too.

Rod and I have talked about doing another track day at Wakefield soon, when I might have a bit more of a go. I'm also interested to see what he can do with it.