ScionLife.com

So_X_PLicit · 03-06-2010, 12:44 PM

Yes, I'm a noob when it comes to this car stuff, so I decided to ask the experts(you guys).

I purchased some new wheels and tires yesterday, 17's and 215/45R-17. They should be coming in on Monday or Tuesday. I also ordered some TRD springs to lower the car just a bit, don't want to go to low. I should be getting the springs around wednesday hopefully.

So my question, should i wait to get the car lowered first and then proceed to the installation of the new rims and tires followed by an alignment?? Or wheels and tires, alignment first the springs? \

Also, i've read the "DIY Tein H-tech" link, would this work for TRD springs, or is there a DIY link for TRD springs.

All info and tips are greatly appreciated

Scionriderz · 03-06-2010, 01:12 PM

Hey man...your questions are really just choices for YOU...there is no step by step procedure to building a car. when your wheels come in you can throw them on if you like or wait tell you heart desires. all the springs available for the tc are pretty much installed the same so yes the DIY for the H. Techs will help. please please since you are a noob and are starting out on cars pound this into your head. *dont get under a car without a JACKSTAND* there are other rules but this one is so underminded.

skinnayyy · 03-06-2010, 01:14 PM

the spring isntall should be about 98% the same i would imagine. And the alignment after lowering should be done after the springs settle.

So_X_PLicit · 03-06-2010, 01:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scionriderz

Hey man...your questions are really just choices for YOU...there is no step by step procedure to building a car. when your wheels come in you can throw them on if you like or wait tell you heart desires. all the springs available for the tc are pretty much installed the same so yes the DIY for the H. Techs will help. please please since you are a noob and are starting out on cars pound this into your head. *dont get under a car without a JACKSTAND* there are other rules but this one is so underminded.

Thanks 4 the advice. My dad does all his car work, hes a bit older and all but im sure he can manage in helping. He's swapped engines before so...

Quote:

Originally Posted by skinnayyy

the spring isntall should be about 98% the same i would imagine. And the alignment after lowering should be done after the springs settle.

This is where i'm puzzled. I see so many people say an alignment is not needed for trd springs, but the FAQ page says it does. I'm guessing id be better off waiting till the car is lowered , being as my tires will be brand new, id hate to tear up the tires quickly after just putting em on, kind of on a budget to have to buy another set of tires so quickly

RoboCop · 03-06-2010, 01:31 PM

I would say get an alignment. Lowering the car at all will mess up the alignment even if it is just camber. Put the new wheels and tires on after the alignment so that way when you go get an alignment you don't have to worry about getting your rims scratched up.

So_X_PLicit · 03-06-2010, 01:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RoboCop

I would say get an alignment. Lowering the car at all will mess up the alignment even if it is just camber. Put the new wheels and tires on after the alignment so that way when you go get an alignment you don't have to worry about getting your rims scratched up.

Thank you, I completely forgot about the risk of gettings the rims scratched up. I guess i got the answer to my question, I'll be doing the lowering and alignment first, just one last question, does it really matter if i dont wait for the springs to settle, can i do the alignment right after putting the springs on? My current tires are really bad, dont know if they will last much longer

Rexpelagi · 03-06-2010, 02:01 PM

I'd also suggest doing the springs first and then installing the tires after an alignment. Lowering the car will likely affect both camber and toe. Camber won't be a big factor on tire wear alone but when combined with toe it can definitely chew up the tires.

RoboCop · 03-06-2010, 02:15 PM

If you can wait awhile or get a couple of guys to sit in the trunk for a few minutes to settle the springs, it shouldn't be too bad to go ahead and get an alignment, but if you can wait at least a week, do it.

So_X_PLicit · 03-06-2010, 04:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RoboCop

If you can wait awhile or get a couple of guys to sit in the trunk for a few minutes to settle the springs, it shouldn't be too bad to go ahead and get an alignment, but if you can wait at least a week, do it.

Oh i got a pretty big bass box for the trunk, that should do the work. I mean the thing barely fits in the trunk ha.
Thanxs for all the help guys, i think we're done here

pinklacedshoe · 03-06-2010, 08:23 PM

Haha good post! I'm about to do the same thing but didn't even think about the alignment after the drop and everything. Good luck with yr install! Post some pics when yr done?

nolo4820 · 03-06-2010, 10:08 PM

I recommend lowering your tc with the stock wheels first and then getting a alignment before you install the aftermarket wheels. Make sure to get the wheels balanced first. Hope this helps.

So_X_PLicit · 03-07-2010, 02:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinklacedshoe

Haha good post! I'm about to do the same thing but didn't even think about the alignment after the drop and everything. Good luck with yr install! Post some pics when yr done?

Will do, i'll see if i can get some before and after pics, should all be done by next week.

Quote:

Originally Posted by nolo4820

I recommend lowering your tc with the stock wheels first and then getting a alignment before you install the aftermarket wheels. Make sure to get the wheels balanced first. Hope this helps.

Yup, thats what ill be doing and my tires will be balanced and rotated at the shop the will be getting installed at.

RighiTC · 03-07-2010, 04:20 PM

yea lowering the car makes a huge difference in ride quality

minter66 · 03-08-2010, 06:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by So_X_PLicit

Yes, I'm a noob when it comes to this car stuff, so I decided to ask the experts(you guys).

I purchased some new wheels and tires yesterday, 17's and 215/45R-17. They should be coming in on Monday or Tuesday. I also ordered some TRD springs to lower the car just a bit, don't want to go to low. I should be getting the springs around wednesday hopefully.

Does he really need a 4 wheel alignment for dropping it 1.0" - 1.25"?

Good choice on the springs. I was in the same boat as you. I ended up putting on my springs to make sure I liked them and how they rode, then put my new 18" TRD rims on. That way if there are any noises or ride difference, you know if it was the springs or the wheels. Doing it at the same time and you'd be guessing.

You'll love how the car looks. I honestly couldn't imagine putting anything other than TRD's on, it drops it perfectly...