Upgrading suspension function verses form

joesvoodoodrinkjoesvoodoodrink Band Wagon
in Suspension, Braking & Wheels
Since this is my real first post I want to say thanks to all the members on this board who have taken time to share their experience and insight. I have a long history with Honda but this is my first wagon and I have learned much from this board already. I have an 89 Dx and I want to start with suspension components. My plan for the car is daily driver with the ability to occasionally haul light climbing gear and mountain bikes. As such I am not looking to lower the vehicle (much) or lose it's cargo carrying ability. At the same time I would like to improve the handling body sway and roll and stiffen the suspension compliance. I will be looking at the rear sway bar set-up posted by mini and any feedback on front strut bars, etc.

Initially I am looking at springs and struts. I have spent several hours reading posts here about options but I am specifically looking for input from members who have made suspension improvements that are geared more toward stock or close to stock heights. I am not opposed to losing an inch or so but I would rather stay away from coilovers as I don't feel thay will have the spring travel necessary despite their adjustability. There are coilovers of unknown brand that came on the car when I purchased it and although I love the look their is no travel to the suspension and it will not work for anything other than highways. Can anyone with similar suspension needs share their preferred strut and spring brand's and combo's? Sorry to throw out such a general post but this is my first concern. And don't get me wrong although I plan on using the wagon for hauling some things it certainly isn't going to be a beater I plan on giving it a very happy second life.
Thanks in advance

Comments

  • White&NerdyWhite&Nerdy Senior Wagonist
    I, too, am interested in maintaining stock ride height. Mainly because I bought my RT4WD wagon to replace a modified, lowered Saturn that got stuck in my uphill driveway every single time it snowed. On studded tires, even. :lol:

    I like the way the stock suspension soaks up the bumps on the crummy roads where I live. I like the stock ride height. May leave a fender/wheel gap a mile wide, but I can get through snow, and I actually want to try some rallycross events this year, which I didn't dare do in my lowered Saturn. But, I wouldn't mind reducing the body roll a bit myself.

    Basically, I have the same goals you do, yet no useful info to provide. So I'll be watching this thread for answers as well. :)
  • wagodizzlewagodizzle Council Member and EDM expert
    use suspension designed for the DA (1990-1993 Integra). i know you wanted to stay away from coilovers, but full coilovers, such as Tein or Skunk2 or whatnot actually feel very comfortable yet have a very sturdy feel. i have Teins Basic Dampers on mine for an EF Civic Hatchback and it rides close to stock but handles beautifully.

    with getting them for a DA Integra you'll get a taller suspension made to hold more weight which will also help you when you are carrying your cargo ;)
  • joesvoodoodrinkjoesvoodoodrink Band Wagon
    Wagodizzle thanks I am warming up to the idea I took a serious look at the way your ride is sitting and I have to say I am impressed. Actually I spent a good 30 minutes on your '91 EDM-ized DX wagon post pretty awesome watching your ride come together. It seems like the Teins have good reviews any suggestions on where to pick them up. Also I see you have the Revo Technica camber kit are you happy with it and again recommendations on where to purchase from?
    Thanks in advance
  • wagodizzlewagodizzle Council Member and EDM expert
    haha, thanks man :oops:

    i love the Teins with all my car-loving-heart. absolutely no complaints, though if you wanna SLAMM your rear end they wont work too much for that, though you can get pretty damn low ;) um... if i were you i would go ahead and spend the extra $150 for the SS that includes adjustable firmness, i kinda wish i had.

    as far as Revo cambers kits go, so far they are perfect... i have had them about a year now. they work great, and all that stuff.

    i purchased several items and such from www.robearracing.com i really like them and they have the best deals i've seen so far.


    hope that helps.
  • joesvoodoodrinkjoesvoodoodrink Band Wagon
    Sounds good looks like the difference between the basic and the SS pricing is about $250 now so that makes it a little tougher to call. You have the EF basics do you think the DA's will give the same ride height just firmer springs? I do want to have the option to lower it a bit from stock not worried about slamming it but also don't want to get stuck with stock height or greater on lowest seat.
  • wagodizzlewagodizzle Council Member and EDM expert
    with the DA suspension the rears lowest setting will only be like an inch lower then stock... meaning, you could actually raise the car if you want :lol: i'd go with EF suspension, so you dont regret anything. even with the EF ones you can ride with a nice confortable ride height that isnt slammed. :wink:
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