Bang for Buck: ek9 springs/shocks on Em1/Ek4

[Mikecivic78]

I saw some advertised for $450. Is it worth it compared to other aftermarket shocks/springs? I'd want not too low a ride height and not too firm, hence ek9 parts might do the job.

[Tai]

Comfort wise itll be better than aftermarket but it will still sit heaps high, you will prob get like 1/2 an inch drop at max as well.

No point getting it tbh compared to stock.

[Mikecivic78]

Comfort wise itll be better than aftermarket but it will still sit heaps high, you will prob get like 1/2 an inch drop at max as well.

No point getting it tbh compared to stock.

Thanks for quick reply ;)

1/2 inch, that sounds higher than ek9 pics I've seen, EK9 looked much lower than EM1 on stock sussy (which is 4wd style- I don't like it too much).

You say not worth it compared to stock? Is it not that much better handling than stock you mean?

[Mikecivic78]

http://i52.tinypic.com/30bib8h.jpg

Looks a fair bit lower than stock Em1 IMO.

[Tai]

May not be as high as EM1 but still high compared to aftermarket.

http://usedcarjapan.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/dscf5872.jpg

http://www.megatrd.com/img_honda/civic98/98.jpg

[outatime]

I saw some advertised for $450. Is it worth it compared to other aftermarket shocks/springs? I'd want not too low a ride height and not too firm, hence ek9 parts might do the job.

yes it's good i highly recommend it. save yourself thousands of dollars. i have it on my ek. very practical.. good on bumpy roads and you won't scrape on shopping centres. it has 2 finger gaps between tyre and fender.

[DC5.Raven]

As Tai has mentioned its a very subtle drop from stock EM1 (about 10mm).
I've got myself a set of EK9 shocks and springs. Havent put it on the car yet though.
Thinking of paring the EK9 shocks with Skunk2 springs.

Currently have stock EM1 shocks with Kings springs giving a 2 finger gap at rears, 1.5 at front.

Will let you know how the EK9 shocks go with the Skunk2 springs once I get it on the car.

[Mikecivic78]

thanks guys, maybe I should look into it. I have a bad driveway that limits how low I can go so maybe it ain't a bad idea.

Let me know how you go DC5.Raven. ;)

[Tai]

If you have a bad drive way and you want comfort then leave it stock.

Plain and simple.

[Mikecivic78]

I want comfort and handling compromise, hence ek9 sussy. Stock is just a little too soft for me.

[nd55]

The shocks I don't know about.

EK9 springs are stiffer than most aftermarket springs.

250f/250f from memory.

Nick.

[akusuma]

Isn't the EK9 springs same as DC2R springs? I am pretty sure the spring rates are similar 250 (F) linear / 250 (R) progressive, not sure about the height. If so, you can buy used DC2R springs for around $100.
Shocks won't be the same though, but with the spare budget you could upgrade to something like koni.

[Alvis]

thanks guys, maybe I should look into it. I have a bad driveway that limits how low I can go so maybe it ain't a bad idea.

Let me know how you go DC5.Raven. ;)

... i share your pain re: driveways :(

I've also been reading up on suspension - read EK9 suspension is a 0.75 inch drop

[Alvis]

250f/250f from memory.

Nick.

Yep. I've read the same too.

[mugen_ctr]

id get the ek9 suspension any day, stiffer springs with matched dampers in oem form, cant ask for more... its not about looks, its all about performance :D

[Alvis]

id get the ek9 suspension any day, stiffer springs with matched dampers in oem form, cant ask for more... its not about looks, its all about performance :D

Ditto above - compared to stock EK1 suspension anyway lol

Are there any major risks in buying second hand suspension - you just don't know the life they've had, so sounds a bit risky... you'd have to get the shocks re-gassed tho yeh?

[mugen_ctr]

2nd hand suspension, just looks for leaks, but if u wanna double check, take it to a suspension specialist an they can conduct test to see how good or bad it is.... shock test, spring compression test as such

im not sure about oem shockers regassing, i know with coil overs, wen being rebuilt they do, so im assuming u can do it to any shockers

[Alvis]

I hope I'm not hi-jacking your thread MikeCivic78 lol - but I'm kinda in the same boat as you and leaning towards something similar to EK9 oem suspension upgrade so I'm hoping this might help you too :)

Have you guys ever heard of Spoon fixed damper kits with progressive springs?


After doing some research on the EK9 forums in the UK they are highly recommended for someone who:
a) doesn't want their car too low
b) wants it sporty
c) but doesn't want to lose too much of the comfort of OEM
and d) doesn't want to pay for coilovers you'll never use that low anyway


So, I guess I'd like your guys advice as the main reasons I was thinking of going down this road was because:
1) My OEM shocks are still good (only 58,000kms no leaks)
2) Spoon progressive springs are designed to work with the stock dampers
3) Firm up the ride/steering response
4) Provide optimal ride height (well, according to Spoon so I would tend to believe them)
5) I can't lower my car too much more than 1 inch due to driveway/spoiler - these lower car by 20mm (0.78inch)
6) Aesthetic reasons - my car is in desperate need of lowering!

http://www.tntperformance.co.nz/products/browse/17


Any feedback/thoughts is appreciated :)


Thanks

[blabla]

go some skunk2 shocks with some eibach pro's or sportline both will work well. u could even go eibachs with stock shocks

[Alvis]

go some skunk2 shocks with some eibach pro's or sportline both will work well. u could even go eibachs with stock shocks

Thanks blabla - but unfortunately the drop is too low for my application re: Skunk2 and Eibach 1.5 inch min on both these...

[Mikecivic78]

1st time to hear about Spoon Progressive springs. I would try to find some reviews before getting them. IMO lowering springs and stock shocks are a no go.

With regards to driveways and such, I reckon I'm after a 1 inch drop. Any more might be pushing it. Maybe 1.25" max.

[Alvis]

1st time to hear about Spoon Progressive springs. I would try to find some reviews before getting them. IMO lowering springs and stock shocks are a no go.

With regards to driveways and such, I reckon I'm after a 1 inch drop. Any more might be pushing it. Maybe 1.25" max.

Yep. I've been on the EK9.org UK forum and a couple of the guys have reported the Spoon progressive springs work well with stock EK4 or EK9 dampers (that's what they are designed/developed for from the Spoon factory). Then, once their stock shocks are due to be changed up anyway (probably say about 90,000kms they then upgrade to the Spoon fixed dampers.

So it kinda really fits the bill for everything I'm looking for :D And the drop is less than one inch.

I reckon you should consider them mate,

I know I'm waiting on a price from that NZ website, so I'll let you know what I get quoted for shipping to Oz (hopefully cheaper cause of the Ozzy $) ;)


Here are some pics of an EK9 on Spoon progressive springs - as it says it's not for someone who wants to slam their car, it's for a sensible height and for people with steep driveways LOL!


PROGRESSIVE SPRING + DAMPER KIT (if you order both together):

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/4822/image016slh.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-04

BEFORE:

YOU HAVE TO ASSUME THIS IS STOCK EK9 SETUP. STOCK EK1 SETUP IS HIGHER THAN THIS... obviously

http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/4496/image023un.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-04


AFTER:

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/8717/image040hx.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-04

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/7342/image039zj.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-04

http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/4073/image038oe.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-04

[Alvis]

QUOTE 1:
I have these on my EK4, and I must say they are simply superb. Much like Tmus says they are not as stiff as most coilovers, but this is the exact reason they are so good, they can soak up bumps mid corner without upsetting the balance of the car, everything feels firm but composed, where other suspensions can feel crashy and twitchy.

An excellent setup all round really!


QUOTE 2:
Normal riding condition is quite firm, it is definitely not comfortable as a passenger. But For me the driver I didn't get this car for comfort really, so it is acceptable in that way I guess. again going over bumps at speed is not a problem, before with the coilovers the cars jumps and loses sense and control.

Driving it hard, it gave me a lot more confidence going into a corner, partly due to the fact that roads are never smooth and the car doesn't get upset by it.

The car has a neutral feel, I used that term because I can feel so much in the car, and the back end kind of start getting light and the front also starts to give. hence it gives me th feel of going sideways, therefore I know to ease off the gas.

OR

Power through the exit, the car feels so good if you keep the car in VTEC at corner exits. its like on rails!

the 9 is so controllable!

http://www.ek9.org/forum/resource-area/1973-ek9-spoon-fix-damper-progressive-springs-review-2.html

[mugen_ctr]

either my eyes are playing tricks, but seems it has made the ek9 sit higher lol

spoon looks the goods, but what are there spring rate? Has be stiffer than ek9 spring rate, or else thats not much of an upgrade on a ek9

[DC5.Raven]

either my eyes are playing tricks, but seems it has made the ek9 sit higher lol

spoon looks the goods, but what are there spring rate? Has be stiffer than ek9 spring rate, or else thats not much of an upgrade on a ek9

Yea thats what I thought as well. LOL.

[Alvis]

yep, put it this way it ain't any lower than stock EK9 - but keeping things in perspective from an EK1/4 point of view, the drop would be much more noticeable...

Good question mugen_ctr - to tell you the truth I don't know the spring rates... more research lol!

[DC5.Raven]

According to this:
http://www.springrates.com/catalog/Honda/Civic-96-00-EK/Lowering-Springs/Spoon-Progressive-Springs-EK

Spoon Progressive Springs provide a 0.8inch drop front and rear.
This is a similar height difference when looking at using EK9 Shocks/Springs vs. Stock EK1 on an EK1.

[Alvis]

spoon looks the goods, but what are there spring rate? Has be stiffer than ek9 spring rate, or else thats not much of an upgrade on a ek9

Ok guys, while maths is not my strong point I've been able to source some spring rates in lbs/in and convert them to kgs/cm so we can see how stock ek and EK9 spring rates compare to Spoon and a variety of other aftermarket springs on the market:

What we can conclude is the Spoon progressive springs are almost twice as hard as stock EKs (EX model), and while they are firmer in the front than CTRs, Spoons are a little softer in the rears.

For 96-00 Civics

Front (kgs/cm)~ Rear (kgs/cm)

96-00 EX 2.9~ 1.4
99-00 Si (EM1) 3.6~ 1.8
CTR 4.3~ 4.3
Spoon Progressive Lowering Springs 6.5~ 5.5

H&R OE 5.0~ 3.4
Eibach ProKit 5.2~ 3.4
H&R Sport 5.9~ 5.0
Eibach Sportline 5.5~ 4.9
Gold-line GL 5.7~ 3.4
Gold-line GPS 4.9~ 2.9
Koni RSK Suspension kit 2.75 - 3.66~ 4.8
Neuspeed SofSports 4.6~ 2.7
Neuspeed Sport 5.0~ 3.2
Neuspeed Race 8.7~ 7.1
Skunk Coilovers -old 7.1~ 5.4
Skunk2 Coilovers - new 8.9~ 7.1
Spoon Full Coilovers 5.4~ 4.3
Spoon Progress Coilovers 6.3~ 4.5
Spoon Progressive Lowering Springs 6.5~ 5.5
Ground Control Coilover 6.8~ 5.0
Tein RA/RE/RS 14.0~ 10.0
Tein HT 20.0~ 8.0
Tein HG 6.5~ 2.3 - 3.5
Tein SS 8.0~ 4.0
Tein Flex 9.0~ 5.0
Tein S. Tech 4.2~ 2.5
Tokico Illumina Kit 4.5~ 2.2
APEX'i WS 8.0~ 3.2
SSR Cup 7.0~ 5.0
SSR S1 8.0~ 8.0

http://www.ek9.org/forum/suspension/1335-ek4-springs-ek9.html


In pounds:

ek9 springs are stiffer, 240lbs front and rear. here is a list of some spring rates from popular springs for 96-00 civics:

For 96-00 Civics (EJ6-8 and EM1 chassis codes)
96-00 EX - 165F/80R (P/P)
99-00 Si (EM1) - 201F/99.8R (P/P)
97, 00-01 ITR - 250F/250R (L/P)
GS-R - 200F/95R (P/P)
CTR - 240/240 (L/P)

H&R OE - 280F/190R (P/P)
Eibach ProKit - 290F/190R (P/P
H&R Sport - 330F/280R (P/P)
Eibach Sportline - 310F/275R (P/P)
Gold-line GL 2.5" drop - 320/190 (P/P)
Gold-line GPS 1.25" drop - 275/160 (P/P)
Koni RSK Suspension kit - 154-205/270 (P/L)
Neuspeed SofSports - 260F/150R (P/P)
Neuspeed Sport - 280F/180R (P/P)
Neuspeed Race - 485F/395R
Skunk Coilovers -old - 400F/300R (L/L) for civic, 500F/400R for integra
Skunk2 Coilovers - new - 500F/400r (L/L)
Spoon Full Coilovers - 300/240
Spoon Progress Coilovers - 350F/250R (P/P)
Spoon Progress Lowering Springs - 320F/200R (P/P)
Ground Control Coilover - 380F/280R (P/P) (this is the standard kit and the springs are mildly progressive).
Tein RA/RE/RS - 783F/559R (L/L)
Tein HT - 1119F/448R (L/L)
Tein HG - 365F/129-196R (L/P)
Tein SS - 448F/224R
Tein Flex - 504F/280R
Tein S. Tech - 235F/140R
Tokico Illumina Kit - 250/123 (P/P)
APEX'i WS - 447f/178r
Suspension Techniques - needed
SSR Cup - 392/280
SSR S1 - 448/448
JIC FLT-A2s - USDM - 504F/336R (L/L)

[Alvis]

Good morning lads,

I've received a quote from the NZ performance website FortyOne Automotive (didn't get a reply from other one) and they've come back with a really good price on Spoon Sports Progressive Springs for EK Civic:

$341 + either one of the following shipping options (was quoted to Wollongong, NSW):

AU$129 - EMS Air 1-2 weeks
AU$119 - SAL Air 2-3 weeks
AU$70 - Japan Post Ocean 3-6 weeks

So you can get these springs to your door in about a month for a little over $400. Not bad at all :D

http://www.fortyone.co.nz/tabs.php


I think I'm going to go for it - would I need someone to install the springs for me or is it something you can do yourself/need special tools?

[DC5.Raven]

Ok guys, while maths is not my strong point I've been able to source some spring rates in lbs/in and convert them to kgs/cm so we can see how stock ek and EK9 spring rates compare to Spoon and a variety of other aftermarket springs on the market:

What we can conclude is the Spoon progressive springs are almost twice as hard as stock EKs (EX model), and while they are firmer in the front than CTRs, Spoons are a little softer in the rears.

For 96-00 Civics

Front (kgs/cm)~ Rear (kgs/cm)

96-00 EX 2.9~ 1.4
99-00 Si (EM1) 3.6~ 1.8
CTR 4.3~ 4.3
Spoon Progress Lowering Springs 5.7~ 3.6

H&R OE 5.0~ 3.4
Eibach ProKit 5.2~ 3.4
H&R Sport 5.9~ 5.0
Eibach Sportline 5.5~ 4.9
Gold-line GL 5.7~ 3.4
Gold-line GPS 4.9~ 2.9
Koni RSK Suspension kit 2.75 - 3.66~ 4.8
Neuspeed SofSports 4.6~ 2.7
Neuspeed Sport 5.0~ 3.2
Neuspeed Race 8.7~ 7.1
Skunk Coilovers -old 7.1~ 5.4
Skunk2 Coilovers - new 8.9~ 7.1
Spoon Full Coilovers 5.4~ 4.3
Spoon Progress Coilovers 6.3~ 4.5
Spoon Progress Lowering Springs 5.7~ 3.6
Ground Control Coilover 6.8~ 5.0
Tein RA/RE/RS 14.0~ 10.0
Tein HT 20.0~ 8.0
Tein HG 6.5~ 2.3 - 3.5
Tein SS 8.0~ 4.0
Tein Flex 9.0~ 5.0
Tein S. Tech 4.2~ 2.5
Tokico Illumina Kit 4.5~ 2.2
APEX'i WS 8.0~ 3.2
SSR Cup 7.0~ 5.0
SSR S1 8.0~ 8.0

http://www.ek9.org/forum/suspension/1335-ek4-springs-ek9.html

Very nice info there!

[mugen_ctr]

wow...Very nice figures... i always thought ctr had stiffer springs than 4.3, but any stiffer will compromise ride comfort i guess

[Alvis]

Does Spoon 6.5 front compared to CTR 4.3 front equate to much difference in terms of ride comfort?

[BlitZ]

not massive, but the CTR will be more comfortable.
But if im paying money, i would get the Spoon..

actually.. fark them all get the eibach sportlines

[Alvis]

yeh, it's pretty hard to find EK9 suspension in Oz - think there is one going for $450 and would most likely need to be re gassed (if it can) and springs probably at the end of their life anyway + you don't know what you're buying, past life etc etc so might end up spending more which is a bit pointless... so agree better to get brand new

[Alvis]

A really really good article/tips on buying suspension presented in a light and easy way to understand. Highly recommended.

http://www.superhonda.com/forum/f27/suspension-faq-2-0-now-more-marshmallows-212488/

[Mikecivic78]

I think I'm going to go for it - would I need someone to install the springs for me or is it something you can do yourself/need special tools?

You can do it yourself with a mate. Tricky (and dangerous part) is separating springs and shocks. There are heaps of DIYs out there. All 1996-00 Civics are the same.

Thanks for all the replies guys. Keep the info coming.

[Alvis]

You can do it yourself with a mate. Tricky (and dangerous part) is separating springs and shocks. There are heaps of DIYs out there. All 1996-00 Civics are the same.

Thanks for all the replies guys. Keep the info coming.

Thanks man, yeh I've had a bit of a look around and looks as though I'll need one of those coil guns so can remove top of damper.

But I'm glad to say i finally decided to order a set of the Spoon progressive springs from that NZ auto company!

+ also got Mugen front strut bar - got a good price because even though it's brand new they don't have the original Mugen box it came in, but still comes with all the parts - they'll just put it in another box :D

Have you decided what option you're going?

[Mikecivic78]

no not yet. I'm planning to do sussy feb/mar. I'll keep my options open.

[vinnY]

not massive, but the CTR will be more comfortable.
But if im paying money, i would get the Spoon..

actually.. fark them all get the eibach sportlines

don't think anyone here's keen on a 2.5" drop :p

always wondered, when spoon claims 20mm drop what car are they claiming this on? ek9? ek4? ek1?

[mugen_ctr]

if im not mistaken, they only work on the ek9 models, the flagship model, so odds are its for ek9, never seen spoon work on a ek4

[Alvis]

don't think anyone here's keen on a 2.5" drop :p

Agreed lol - must be this perception out there that the lower your car is, the better it is. I seriously don't get it. I just laugh at people with ridiculous drops. :)


always wondered, when spoon claims 20mm drop what car are they claiming this on? ek9? ek4? ek1?

That's actually a really good question. I checked out the Spoon website and it says 'EK4/EK9' - so who knows what that means...

But I looked at the spring rates they list as 'standard' on the Spoon website and they are FRONT: 3.6kg and REAR: 2kg.

http://www.spoon.jp/eng/details.php?id=912&md=civic&cid=5

Now that's no where near the 4.3kg stated for the standard CTR front and rear - it's actually more like the EM1 Si model if you look back at the spring rates on the previous page... so kinda weird huh...???

[Alvis]

ok thought a few visuals might help us:

Stock EK9:
http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/4733/ek97wheel.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-07

Spoon Progressive Springs and Damper Kit:
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/4073/image038oe.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-04


Doesn't look 20mm lower than stock EK9 to me... looks more like it's based on an EK4 or EM1/EJ6/8 drop based on these photos


Stock EK4:

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/350/ek4hatchwheel1.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-07

This is the rear, but you get the idea with height:

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/2543/ek4hatchwheel2.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-07


EM1/EJ6/8:

http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/4048/em1ej68.jpg
By civica (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/civica) at 2011-01-07

looks like a tank the poor car! how could Honda not give it lower springs lol

[DC5.Raven]

don't think anyone here's keen on a 2.5" drop :p

always wondered, when spoon claims 20mm drop what car are they claiming this on? ek9? ek4? ek1?

Personally I think a 2.5 drop is quite nice on an EM1, which is what the Skunk2 Springs offered.
Then again each to their own.

Here's a pic btw:
http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk237/TopGear_/0fbd6304.jpg

Got the springs but never had a chance to install it before I sold the car :(

[Alvis]

Just another post for your info guys - I just had a niggling feeling after i bought Spoon springs that EK4 dampers were different to EK1 and I might blow my EK1 shocks; but I can confirm in the below post EK4 dampers = same as EK1 dampers.

EK4 has stiffer springs, thicker sway bars etc, but dampers are the same :) read the article if interested lol

http://www.ozhonda.com/forum/archive/index.php/t-23566.html

[mugen_ctr]

i alway suspected that ek4 an ek1 suspension was similar if not the same, i cant imagine honda making different dampers for ek1 an ek4, since they both are mass produced, an making 2 differnt types of dampers for near identicle cars seems bad move from business pov. makes sense to make stiffer springs, as its much cheaper to manufacture em.

Ek9 on the other hand is a proper sports car, so i cant see honda really cheaping out on sus parts

[Alvis]

yeh makes sense to me too, I don't think they would have made different dampers either plus Honda was starting to 'skimp' on the Civic in the late 90's/early 00's.

I'm a little concerned how the stock dampers will go with the new springs, but guess I'll find out soon enough when the parts arrive :)

[mugen_ctr]

yeh makes sense to me too, I don't think they would have made different dampers either plus Honda was starting to 'skimp' on the Civic in the late 90's/early 00's.

I'm a little concerned how the stock dampers will go with the new springs, but guess I'll find out soon enough when the parts arrive :)

Just to give u an idea, im running kings lowered (2 finger gaps) on stock ek1 dampers.. the ride does feel firmer, an u feel the bumps alot more, but the spring rates on kings are crap hole, slighty stiffer than oem, but no where near as good as spoon, so id imagine spoon springs will feel totally different to what im feeling

[Alvis]

Well, they finally came guys - springs arrived in the mail today:

Will let you know how they ride on the stock dampers when installed (+ just got Mugen front tower bar) and leave feedback

This is the company I ended up getting them from - excellent customer service and fast shipping, so definitely recommend them:
http://www.fortyone.co.nz/


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/P1040383edit.jpg

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/P1040388edit.jpg

[vinnY]

before and after shots yo ;)
keen to see how it stacks up against my h&r kit.. seems like there's quite a few more coils than my springs right now

[Alvis]

yeh will do - that's an interesting point about the number of springs.

I had a look at stock last night and I'm pretty sure there are 10 at front while the Spoon has 14

And just to confirm - the springs which are more tightly packed together go at the front? Or have I got it the wrong way around?

[vinnY]

can usually tell which is which by eye
the left two, are the front ones
the right two, are the rears

generally the thicker ones go on the front, for our cars anyway

[Alvis]

Thanks mate - yeh, I wasn't too sure when I looked at them (feel like such a noob lol :))

I'll try and get some before/after shots before install too

[Alvis]

Honda quoted approx $350 or so for lowering springs installation - guessing I could get it cheaper elsewhere as always more expensive at dealerships yeh?

I think off memory the guy was saying they charge something like $120 per hour!


ALSO, got a quote on the Spoon dampers $817 + $110 shipping to Oz - doesn't sound too bad to me... what do you guys think?

[vinnY]

350 sounds about right, take's a while to get the springs off and springs back in

total of about $925?
I'd be wondering if they were better than koni yellow's or not since they can probably be had for about the same price

[nzmac]

Wassup. Mac @ Fortyone here. The guilty party =] Any Q's just PM me or email us! Koni is no problem either Alvis!

[Alvis]

Wassup. Mac @ Fortyone here. The guilty party =] Any Q's just PM me or email us! Koni is no problem either Alvis!

Could you tell us the main differences between the Koni Sport (yellows) and Spoon dampers? And does one provide a more firmer ride comfort than the other?

[vinnY]

^ my guess is their valving from factory

[Alvis]

so there are different types of valving then?

[vinnY]

valved for different spring rates, I mean

[Alvis]

there's a good $300 odd price difference between the Koni and Spoon as well...

Fortyone - can you give me some more details on Koni Sport vs Spoon dampers? I've also read the Koni is adjustable whereas the Spoon is not?

[vinnY]

spoon dampers are made to work with spoon springs I.e. valved correctly so no adjustment is needed, perches in the stock locations to give the appropriate drop
koni's are made to work with stock springs up to about 500lbs springs so I've heard(probably why they give you the ability the adjust the dampening) and also slightly height adjustable as well to give the desired height

correct me if I'm wrong nzmac :)

[Alvis]

Spoon springs installed today guys - here are the before and after shots + install photos :)

I'm yet to take it on a 'nice' drive but initial feelings around town were really good. It's not too stiff at all (for those who don't want a 'harsh' ride), and I have to say it really hasn't lost any of that OEM comfort - I guess that's the advantage of a progressive springs as opposed to a coil over.

The initial drop without settling so far is -17mm. I think when I take it through the twisty bits it might settle in a bit, and hit the hard spring rate for a firmer ride. ANYWAY, here are some pics of the install at my friends mechanics garage (labour = $90).


INSTALL PHOTOS:
Taking the front assembly out:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00989edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00990edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00993edit.jpg


Stock front spring vs Spoon Sports front spring:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00991edit.jpg


Removing stock front springs:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00992edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00994edit.jpg


Cut down bump stops:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC01000edit.jpg


Installing front Spoon Sports springs:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00998edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00995edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00996edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC00997edit.jpg


Removing stock rear springs:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC01005edit.jpg


Stock rear spring vs Spoon Sports rear spring:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC01003edit.jpg


Rear spring installed:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC01002edit.jpg


http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/DSC01006edit.jpg




BEFORE:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060082edit.jpg

AFTER:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060105edit.jpg


BEFORE:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060091edit.jpg

AFTER:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060109edit.jpg


BEFORE:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060089edit.jpg

AFTER:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060108edit.jpg

BEFORE:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060096edit.jpg

AFTER:
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/P1060115edit.jpg


The drop is only subtle, but keeps the car practical and just looks that little more tucked :) What do you think?

[vinnY]

seems reasonable if you don't wanna drop too much I guess

definitely not the kit you're want if you're after a massive drop(eibach sportlines are probably what you're after, or what I'm rocking right now - h&r sport cup kit)

[Alvis]

these are perfect for my application - i'd say spot on with CTR height which is best compromise between function and form; but if you want a massive impractical drop, these aren't the springs for you

[blabla]

these are perfect for my application - i'd say spot on with CTR height which is best compromise between function and form; but if you want a massive impractical drop, these aren't the springs for you

I would of went the pro kits bit lower. I had pro kits excellent springs for daily and even better on windy rds. I went down waterfall to rnp with them but I wasn't using stock shocks: skunk2.

[Alvis]

so far I'm really happy with the result for what i was after :) I'll see how the shocks go, if they start to suffer from the drop I'll change them out; but hoping to get at least another 30k out of them :)

but due to driveway i didn't have a lot of room to work with in terms of a drop, and given Spoon's reputation in suspension, brakes and all those types of components it worked out well

[EK1 Civic]

Ok guys, while maths is not my strong point I've been able to source some spring rates in lbs/in and convert them to kgs/cm so we can see how stock ek and EK9 spring rates compare to Spoon and a variety of other aftermarket springs on the market:

What we can conclude is the Spoon progressive springs are almost twice as hard as stock EKs (EX model), and while they are firmer in the front than CTRs, Spoons are a little softer in the rears.

For 96-00 Civics

Front (kgs/cm)~ Rear (kgs/cm)

96-00 EX 2.9~ 1.4
99-00 Si (EM1) 3.6~ 1.8
CTR 4.3~ 4.3
Spoon Progressive Lowering Springs 6.5~ 5.5

H&R OE 5.0~ 3.4
Eibach ProKit 5.2~ 3.4
H&R Sport 5.9~ 5.0
Eibach Sportline 5.5~ 4.9
Gold-line GL 5.7~ 3.4
Gold-line GPS 4.9~ 2.9
Koni RSK Suspension kit 2.75 - 3.66~ 4.8
Neuspeed SofSports 4.6~ 2.7
Neuspeed Sport 5.0~ 3.2
Neuspeed Race 8.7~ 7.1
Skunk Coilovers -old 7.1~ 5.4
Skunk2 Coilovers - new 8.9~ 7.1
Spoon Full Coilovers 5.4~ 4.3
Spoon Progress Coilovers 6.3~ 4.5
Spoon Progressive Lowering Springs 6.5~ 5.5
Ground Control Coilover 6.8~ 5.0
Tein RA/RE/RS 14.0~ 10.0
Tein HT 20.0~ 8.0
Tein HG 6.5~ 2.3 - 3.5
Tein SS 8.0~ 4.0
Tein Flex 9.0~ 5.0
Tein S. Tech 4.2~ 2.5
Tokico Illumina Kit 4.5~ 2.2
APEX'i WS 8.0~ 3.2
SSR Cup 7.0~ 5.0
SSR S1 8.0~ 8.0

http://www.ek9.org/forum/suspension/1335-ek4-springs-ek9.html

So Tien S. Tech would be the most comfortable springs? im after coilovers that are the most comfortable and allow me to customise the height of the the car. I dont wanna snap my spine in half over a bump =.=

[vinnY]

^ not necessarily just springs, hardened bushes make a great different along with shock dampening

[Alvis]

yeh I was at first worried my spoon springs would be too hard, but I'm surprised even though as you say they are stiffer than EK9, they aren't harsh at all. I am still running stock EK1 dampers however, but there is no shaking of the cabin or things creaking or rocking around

- that's not what I wanted anyway - I wanted a 'nice' drop not a dump, but also something that had been researched and tested as a high quality product specifically made for the 96-00 model (as opposed to 92-00 which you see on some).

I could easily recommend Spoon springs to anyone, but if you're after adjustable height that's a different story. Personally, I don't know why people need to spend so much money on coilovers for the road. Track yes, daily driver no IMO.

Just my 2 cents :)

[vinnY]

yeah people want the ability to adjust though

I got over it pretty quickly, this will be my last suspension setup until I move on to another car later this year :)

so when are those koni yellows arriving?

[Alvis]

haha, yeh not yet man lol ;)

what kind of car are you looking at buying?

[vinnY]

next move will be an evo7… so close

[Alvis]

ohhh nice... I actually really like the fronts on the Evo 7's

Not a 'massive' fan of the wing on the back of that model - prefer the style on the 8s and 9s - but still turbo, awd, sedan, can't complain really :)

[vinnY]

yeah I've toyed with removing it to see how it looks, we'll see when the time comes :)

pretty much a bang for your buck ride to be honest, has everything I want/need in a relatively cheap package

[Alvis]

Exactly. Fast and practical, reliable and not too expensive :)

Well, keep us updated and make sure you try to pick up a clean one

[anansting]

Any one has stock 03/04 Civic Suspension? Need to restore the ride height of a mate's car.

[tsol0811]

While were on the Ek9 Shock talk, can i ask if it will lower the front height of my car with aftermarket springs with the use of ek9 shocks?
im currently running eg6 standard oem shocks in my car..

[Mikecivic78]

While were on the Ek9 Shock talk, can i ask if it will lower the front height of my car with aftermarket springs with the use of ek9 shocks?
im currently running eg6 standard oem shocks in my car..

yes you can.

I believe that ek9 shocks are the same as stock ek shocks. Only the springs are different.

[Alvis]

Just reviving this thread again guys - thinking of upgrading the OEM shocks:

Given my car is now sitting -20mm lower with the spoon springs - if I buy the KONI yellow adjustable dampers - would I be right in saying I can maintain my ride height of -20mm? And do the shocks come preset at stock OEM level from KONI?

Or should I be lowering the shocks -20mm anyway inline with the springs?

Basically I don't want the car any lower due to practical reasons and I think the non-adj spoon shocks will lower my car another 20mm because the shock is 20mm lower than stock.

[Mikecivic78]

yea Alvis, the Konis have adjustable spring perches, 2 on the front, 3 in the rear.

The Konis for EK come out of the box already on the stock perches. Your Spoon springs are designed to work in the stock position.

You can put it on a lower perch if you like ( for looks), but you might bottom out at time since you have pretty soft progressive springs.

The main thing you have to gain from the Konis is having a good reliable shock with damper adjustment. It's a great upgrade over the stock shocks.

[Alvis]

yea Alvis, the Konis have adjustable spring perches, 2 on the front, 3 in the rear.

The Konis for EK come out of the box already on the stock perches. Your Spoon springs are designed to work in the stock position.

You can put it on a lower perch if you like ( for looks), but you might bottom out at time since you have pretty soft progressive springs.

The main thing you have to gain from the Konis is having a good reliable shock with damper adjustment. It's a great upgrade over the stock shocks.

Ka. Boom. Thanks mate, you answered all my questions in one hit, great reply +1 rep :)

I've only ever heard good things about Koni yellows, so this is most definitely the path I will going down for my shocks. Keep you posted with any updates.

Cheers again :thumbsup:

[getm_up]

im no pro at suspension, but you just bought $400 springs and now buying shocks?
why not just go coilovers? would seem more practical.

[Alvis]

im no pro at suspension, but you just bought $400 springs and now buying shocks?
why not just go coilovers? would seem more practical.

I know where you're coming from, but I didn't want to spend $2k on Tein coilovers just for the street - I think in this respect coils are overrated IMO (just my personal opinion, I might be wrong...). I think an excellent quality set of shocks and springs (Spoon, KONI etc) will outperform a cheaper set of coils, on the street, that I could get for the same money.

The other I went for the Spoon springs was the drop was only -20mm; I have a steepish driveway and this allows me to get in and out without scraping perfectly... maybe a compromise, but it's worth it not having the front spoiler all scratched up. Plus Spoon should know what they're doing with components and all the R&D they claim to do... well, you'd hope so!

[90LAN]

alvis,
coilovers hands down everyday.

with the driveway you need harder springs to stop the compression when going up the driveway. You can only get this in coilovers and before you say coilovers are too hard for everyday driving, get the right ones and you wont be saying that.

have you tried both to compare yet ?

[Alvis]

alvis,
coilovers hands down everyday.

with the driveway you need harder springs to stop the compression when going up the driveway. You can only get this in coilovers and before you say coilovers are too hard for everyday driving, get the right ones and you wont be saying that.

have you tried both to compare yet ?

Hey Lan, no not personally; I've been in a friends car but no not in mine. Again, just from what I've read on the net and from what a few people on here have said (Tai, MikeCivic78 etc), but then again like you said, some people love the coils for the road.

I saw the Best Motoring International Type R doco (one of the older ones that starts with the NSX and goes to the EK9), and man, seeing a stock EK9 going around some of those twisty Japanese tracks in the wet on the limit with ths stock ctr shocks/springs sure is impressive :) After seeing that shocks/springs are more than enough for me on the road

[EG52NV]

I have a question how do you know someone is selling genuine ek9 shock and spring setup or just EK1/4 shocks with $50 dc2r springs? They would look exactly the same id imagine

[Alvis]

Sorry to butt in EK52NV: but 2 links below that are pretty cool to watch from Best Motoring International Type R Legend from my previous post

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nidwa7IIgl4 (skip to 7.15 for CTR)

cont: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6uDZLs5GMs


AND this is awesome - skip to 8 min mark for Spoon Integra Type R and pump up your speakers!! Farq.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK8NvW36RTk

cont: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYtv1P3AwJc

[mugen_ctr]

im no pro at suspension, but you just bought $400 springs and now buying shocks?
why not just go coilovers? would seem more practical.

his practically buying sports suspension from Spoon...... Sports doesnt mean coilovers, coilovers are more race orientated, hence why they call it sports/street....
and being sports/street, most tuners only offer a strut+spring combo for street use, and its not just spoon, but nismo, trd etc etc.... although they cost any where from 1k to 1.5 for just springs an struts, an u think, wtf... soo $$$$, why not go coilovers, but as mentioned, these have R&D done to them extensively to the car

[Mikecivic78]

alvis,
coilovers hands down everyday.

with the driveway you need harder springs to stop the compression when going up the driveway. You can only get this in coilovers and before you say coilovers are too hard for everyday driving, get the right ones and you wont be saying that.

have you tried both to compare yet ?

Yes Lan, you do make a good point about stopping the compression of springs up a driveway, but if the driveway is steep with say a spoon drain at the top (like I have), it can beach ur car if it's too low. That said, with coilovers height adjustment can take care of that, but unless you get more up-market coilovers, you cannot also have decent daily drive ride quality.

Depends what level of harshness you can take, but being a married man I can say the wife wouldn't be too happy having cheap coilies on the daily workhorse. As a weekend car with another car as a soft daily then you could by all means go cheap coilovers IMO.

[getm_up]

so, the verdict is......?
spoon sussy doesnt sound bad just looks like the car is about to go offroad lol

[Alvis]

personal preference I guess really, but if you look at how a stock CTR handles on a shock/spring setup on the above videos, I think you'll pretty much answer your own question (not trying to be rude so don't take offence, but I think people need to keep it real and remember they are on the road and not the track everyday :))

Yes, the Spoon Sports sussy doesn't sit as low as coils, but given the R&D Spoon do, it doesn't have to, and who cares about what other people think about how low your car is. Another thing that annoys me lol. You have to be happy with it because you're the one driving it. End of story :)

[mugen_ctr]

personal preference I guess really, but if you look at how a stock CTR handles on a shock/spring setup on the above videos, I think you'll pretty much answer your own question (not trying to be rude so don't take offence, but I think people need to keep it real and remember they are on the road and not the track everyday :))

Yes, the Spoon Sports sussy doesn't sit as low as coils, but given the R&D Spoon do, it doesn't have to, and who cares about what other people think about how low your car is. Another thing that annoys me lol. You have to be happy with it because you're the one driving it. End of story :)

+1 well said.... who gives a flying crap of what others think..... at the end of the day, its ur pride an joy :D

Have u considered koni shocks over spoon? they are considerable cheaper than the spoon, but are just as good

[Alvis]

^ You know what man, you absolutely read my mind. I was literally just doing a search comparing Spoon v KONI Yellow shock data to see the difference.

I have the Spoon data below, but I have no idea how to interpret this - does anyone know what this means in 'very simple' language?

COM/TEN
0.05m/sec:
F85/-50kgf
R60/-36kgf

0.1m/sec:
F120/-84kgf
R90/-55kgf

0.3m/sec:
F218/-147kgf
R148/-83kgf


My spring rates are:
lbs (pounds) = 320F/200R.
kg/cm = 6.5F~ 5.5R


If I was to combine these shock rates with the spring rate would this = medium/ firm / hard / harsh ride quality?

[Mikecivic78]

Alvis, the only thing I understood there in your post were your spring rates.

Are Spoon dampers also damper adjustable?

[Alvis]

Alvis, the only thing I understood there in your post were your spring rates.

Are Spoon dampers also damper adjustable?

That makes 2 of us lol... nope they're a fix damper

I'm guessing they have something to do with the rebound rate...maybe...?

[Alvis]

All right guys I think I've worked it out! Get ready for a pretty big post in my attempt to try and explain what shock figures mean (if you don't already know).

[Alvis]

^ You know what man, you absolutely read my mind. I was literally just doing a search comparing Spoon v KONI Yellow shock data to see the difference.

I have the Spoon data below, but I have no idea how to interpret this - does anyone know what this means in 'very simple' language?

COM/TEN
0.05m/sec:
F85/-50kgf
R60/-36kgf

0.1m/sec:
F120/-84kgf
R90/-55kgf

0.3m/sec:
F218/-147kgf
R148/-83kgf

My spring rates are:
lbs (pounds) = 320F/200R.
kg/cm = 6.5F~ 5.5R

If I was to combine these shock rates with the spring rate would this = medium/ firm / hard / harsh ride quality?



OK guys, I'm pretty sure I've worked out what those shock figures mean - now correct me if I'm wrong - but:

1. The Spoon fixed damper numbers above are showing compression (com) and rebound (ten) (note the KONIs are rebound adjustable valved only - which is not necessarily a bad thing)

2. 0.05, 0.1 and 0.3/ sec refers to the shaft velocity of the damper in metres per second


----------------------------------

SO, if we look at a shaft velocity of 0.1m/sec this means the compression force applied to the front is 120kg and 90kg at the rear.

Essentially, the higher the velocity = the higher the damping.

This is also a non-linear relationship. This means if you double the velocity it doesn't necessarily mean the damping is doubled, it may be as much as four times as much for example/

For the below data I have drawn on some of the info from a motorcycle tech article, but regardless car or bike, the theory is the same.

----------------------------------
So know that we know this, the next question is what does this really mean and how can we understand the data?

I've tried to replicate the Spoon fixed damper rebound and compression data on a simple chart to show a curve with rebound and compression - again if someone can confirm if I've got this right, that would be great.

Note: the rebound graph is inverted because we call compressive forces positive and tensile forces are considered negative. To get a more complete picture of the entire damping curve, simply put the two curves together: Each time the shock goes through a complete cycle, it passes through zero twice-once at the bottom of the stroke and once at the top of the stroke. When the wheel hits a bump, the shock accelerates to a maximum velocity, slows down and then stops compressing.

At this point, the vertical velocity of the shock is zero. It then changes direction, accelerates in the negative direction, slows down and stops again when it's done extending:

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/apalmucci/My%20Civic/Spoon-2.jpg


NOW, the next question obviously is: what part of the curve is low-speed and what part is high-speed - what's a harsh ride and what's an acceptable ride? There are not specific terms defining specific velocities, they are relative terms so I guess I have to compare it to other shock data if I can find it to find this answer.

Source: http://www.sportrider.com/tech/146_9612_tech/index.html
The point is, even though the terms high- and low-speed damping are not specific velocities, they do allow suspension tuners and designers to communicate. Dyno tests have shown that velocities as low as 0.05 m/s are very important when making changes to a damping curve.

Remember that compression (or bump-damping) occurs when the wheel contacts a bump and compresses, and rebound or tension damping occurs as the spring forces the shock or fork to extend. The fact that the compression velocity is forced by the size and shape of the bump means it sees a very wide range of velocities.

Rebound, on the other hand, is largely controlled by the spring force and therefore sees a much smaller range of velocities. Typically, rebound may see one third of the velocity of compression.

----------------------

Let me know what you guys think and if I've got this right or I'm talking out of my arse lol :)

[liberx]

This is good stuff - great see someone do their homework to help make decisions for the desired outcome.

To me the graph is a bit mixed up when following the X axis (shaft speed). Starts at zero rebound, gets faster (OK) then suddenly switches to zero compression speed (which it physically can't do). The data points joining between fast rebound and slow compression (the middle part/cross over) will be incorrect. Reversing the first part of the X axis (to indicate direction and speed) would make more sense IMO

What you can see though clearly (still) is that:
1. Fronts provide more damping (to match higher spring rate, and more weight)
2. Damping effect increases at a rate higher than the shaft speed (non linear)

It is generally acknowledged that compression rates have a greater effect on ride quality, while rebound does most of the work in controlling body movements. In terms of deciding if the Spoons are a better option than Konis though - without comparative data it doesn't help much - other than the fact that you've learnt a something (which is worth it by itself).

Yes, Spoon have optimised their products to work together (on day 1 at least) - and have spent a lot doing so.

However the adjust-ability in the Konis is hard to pass up - as all dampers (shocks) go off over time. Adjusting to personal preferences (or even for conditions) is attractive as well.

[Alvis]

Thanks liberx - I was waiting for someone to reply for their thoughts (still learning about all this!) :)

Yep, I think you're right on the chart - I knew something wasn't quite right - but I've revised it as you said.

I've been thinking about it a bit, and even though the Spoon's are a good product and match the springs I feel it might be too harsh for what I want in my daily. I think everyone on this forum can't be wrong about the KONI - while I've seen some comparative KONI data which makes me believe the Spoon's sit somewhere between full hard and mid hard (if that's a word), the KONI's just give you that extra flexibility to make changes that suit how you want the car to drive.

Adjustable and good value for money. What else could you want :)

[mugen_ctr]

imo, koni are more street performance, and spoon is more track/street orientated shockers, u wont find any one running spoon springs+shocks, an i think u already know why lol $$$$.... for the same price, in todays world, theres fair bit variety now... unlike in the good old 90's, where spoon, mugen and jun would be the only option

But if u were to go koni, might i add, maybe going to koni ground control sleeves be the better alternative? many swear by the kono+GC combo in the states, i guess what im getting to is, it has what u need, with the added benefit of full coilover adjustable functions, dampers and ride height control yet still retain its stock strut look/function.

as far as shock dynos go, 9 outta 10, including me would have zero clue on it lol.... but from my understanding, shockers should be tailored to the roads u drive on....

[90LAN]

Yes Lan, you do make a good point about stopping the compression of springs up a driveway, but if the driveway is steep with say a spoon drain at the top (like I have), it can beach ur car if it's too low. That said, with coilovers height adjustment can take care of that, but unless you get more up-market coilovers, you cannot also have decent daily drive ride quality.

Depends what level of harshness you can take, but being a married man I can say the wife wouldn't be too happy having cheap coilies on the daily workhorse. As a weekend car with another car as a soft daily then you could by all means go cheap coilovers IMO.
plenty of good coilovers for daily duties that are comfortable
just have to ask people what works
just get teins ss if you want a soft coilover for the street
pretty much the same spring rating as any lower spring

shock and spring combo's can also be un-comfortable with the bouncing effect with mis-matched set ups

[Alvis]

imo, koni are more street performance, and spoon is more track/street orientated shockers, u wont find any one running spoon springs+shocks, an i think u already know why lol $$$$.... for the same price, in todays world, theres fair bit variety now... unlike in the good old 90's, where spoon, mugen and jun would be the only option

But if u were to go koni, might i add, maybe going to koni ground control sleeves be the better alternative? many swear by the kono+GC combo in the states, i guess what im getting to is, it has what u need, with the added benefit of full coilover adjustable functions, dampers and ride height control yet still retain its stock strut look/function.

as far as shock dynos go, 9 outta 10, including me would have zero clue on it lol.... but from my understanding, shockers should be tailored to the roads u drive on....

Thanks for the heads up, I haven't done any research on that - what are koni ground control sleeves?

[Mikecivic78]

plenty of good coilovers for daily duties that are comfortable
just have to ask people what works
just get teins ss if you want a soft coilover for the street
pretty much the same spring rating as any lower spring

shock and spring combo's can also be un-comfortable with the bouncing effect with mis-matched set ups

true about the mis-matched setups. That's why Konis are good as they are damper adjustable. If I harden dampening too much I get this bouncing.

I haven't tried Tein SSs. I wonder how they compare to the Eibachs. I would say that Eibachs would be better as comfort/handling compromise, but I would like to have height adjustability. Looking back now, I should have got Ground Control for the Konis.

[Alvis]

^^ what's ground control?

[Mikecivic78]

^^ what's ground control?

people refer them as GCs. They are coilover sleeves. They are made to be mated with Koni Yellows. Google them, there's a few DIYs with them in them. Good bit of kit them.

[trism]

They are a brand. They make extended top hats and coilover sleeve kits

[Mikecivic78]

GC coilover springs for EK from a place in the US called Kuruma Motoring. This is where I bought my Konis from.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/GROUND-CONTROL-COILOVER-SPRINGS-92-00-CIVIC-EG-EK-/190540505677?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2c5d19624d

I might look into these in the future