View Full Version : Springs or Struts for a softer ride?


igotid6
12-22-2004, 05:29 PM
Hey...just wondering what is a better option if I want to smooth my Xb's ride a little. I'm set to pick it up this afternoon.

I think springs would soften the ride moreso than struts. The struts description says it "firms" the ride. That isn't what I'm looking for.

I don't want to feel the bumps quite as much, and wouldn't mind the better handling springs will give me.

12-22-2004, 05:55 PM
The best way to get a more comfortable ride is to install upgraded springs. Struts just help with the ride quality, Springs are the cause of ride quality. Are you looking to lower or just have a better ride with the same stance you have now?

squirrel
12-22-2004, 06:01 PM
Hey...just wondering what is a better option if I want to smooth my Xb's ride a little. I'm set to pick it up this afternoon.

I think springs would soften the ride moreso than struts. The struts description says it "firms" the ride. That isn't what I'm looking for.

I don't want to feel the bumps quite as much, and wouldn't mind the better handling springs will give me.

Springs help w/ ride height and load carrying and work in conjunction w/ shocks/struts to dampen the uneven road surfaces. Another factor that is overlooked is tires. The lower the side profile the "harder" or less cushion the car will ride.

The stock struts are fine as long as the spring drop is not less than 2 inches, more than that and the shaft will "bottom out" and eventually, you will blow out the seals and need replacements.

12-22-2004, 06:05 PM
The TRD springs are a great upgrade to make the ride comfortable, but it will lower you 1.25inchs.

rallyxb
12-22-2004, 06:29 PM
Someone said a while back in another thread that we might be able to use Toyota Echo springs for a softer ride? Any info on this?

superjeer
12-22-2004, 06:48 PM
H-Techs are much softer of a ride. Lower you about 1". Cause a little more body roll, IMO though.

Tyler_Knight
12-22-2004, 06:57 PM
Scion bB JDM springs rate is 134 in/lb. US market xB vehicles are rated @160 in/lb. The shocks also differ between the JDM market and US with the US shocks being a little more "stiff".

Don't know about the adjustment to ride height, but perhaps you could order a set of JDM springs from Toyota or "trade" with some one in Japan?

Tyler

12-22-2004, 08:47 PM
H-Techs are much softer of a ride. Lower you about 1". Cause a little more body roll, IMO though.

Thats another good spring set-up if you don't want to lower the car too much. How low do you want it? If at all. 8) Hope we are helping you with your delima.

ProtoCulture
12-25-2004, 07:43 AM
JDM springs have a lower rate than US springs because Americans weigh a whole lot more (on average) than most Japanese...

Epitrochoid
12-25-2004, 07:12 PM
The TRD springs are a great upgrade to make the ride comfortable, but it will lower you 1.25inchs.

The TRD springs I put on my xA RS definitely ride harsher than stock.

hotbox05
12-25-2004, 08:23 PM
yeah trds are harsh. tein h-techs offer a soft and supple ride

12-26-2004, 12:43 AM
The TRD springs are a great upgrade to make the ride comfortable, but it will lower you 1.25inchs.

The TRD springs I put on my xA RS definitely ride harsher thsn stock.

Really? Man thats wierd, there are a good amount of folks over here with TRD springs on, and have nothing but good things to say. I guess it may not be the way to go after all, recomendation: go with the Teins. :D

squirrel
12-26-2004, 01:47 AM
yeah trds are harsh. tein h-techs offer a soft and supple ride
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S-techs ride next too. TRDs are way too harsh. I don't know too many that run TRDs on the street in the Bay Area. They may be good for the track or auto-x though.

Epitrochoid
12-26-2004, 06:34 PM
The TRD springs are a great upgrade to make the ride comfortable, but it will lower you 1.25inchs.

The TRD springs I put on my xA RS definitely ride harsher thsn stock.

Really? Man thats wierd, there are a good amount of folks over here with TRD springs on, and have nothing but good things to say. I guess it may not be the way to go after all, recomendation: go with the Teins. :D

I didn't say I didn't like them. :D They do improve cornering and looks. The trade off is the ride.

ProtoCulture
12-28-2004, 07:28 AM
Yeah, I'd like to see one of those auto-xing xBs! LOL!

its_ikon
12-28-2004, 07:29 PM
if you are just looking for a better ride then don't go lower then 1.25"

LilBlkBox
01-10-2005, 06:58 AM
what does everybody think of Goldlines