When it comes to high-performance automotive suspension systems, coil over suspension systems stand out as a popular choice among car enthusiasts, racers, and drivers looking to enhance their vehicle’s handling, ride quality, and aesthetics. BLOX Racing offers a range of coil over suspension products designed to deliver superior performance, durability, and adjustability for various types of vehicles. This article will delve into the technical aspects of coil over suspension, highlighting the advantages, installation process, maintenance, and how it can transform your driving experience.

What is Coil Over Suspension?

A coil over suspension system consists of a shock absorber and a coil spring that are housed together in a single unit. This design allows for more precise control over the vehicle's ride height, dampening characteristics, and overall suspension performance. By adjusting the coil spring and shock absorber separately, drivers can fine-tune their vehicle's suspension to meet specific driving needs, whether it’s for daily driving, track use, or off-roading.

Components of a Coil Over Suspension

A typical coil over suspension system is made up of the following key components:

• Shock Absorber: The shock absorber is responsible for controlling the rebound and compression of the suspension. It helps to dampen the forces generated by bumps, potholes, or sharp turns, providing a smooth and controlled ride.

• Coil Spring: The coil spring is designed to absorb energy from the road and support the weight of the vehicle. The spring rate, which determines how stiff or soft the suspension feels, can be adjusted for different performance needs.

• Adjustment Knob: This allows users to change the stiffness or softness of the shock absorber to match their driving style or the type of road conditions they are dealing with.

• Mounting Hardware: The coil over kit will include various mounts, bolts, and washers to ensure proper installation and compatibility with the vehicle’s suspension geometry.

Advantages of Coil Over Suspension

Coil over suspension systems are highly regarded for their versatility and performance enhancements. Here are several reasons why this suspension upgrade is favored by many automotive enthusiasts:

1. Adjustable Ride Height

One of the most attractive features of coil over suspension systems is the ability to adjust the ride height. Whether you want to lower the stance of your car for a sportier look or raise it for better ground clearance, coil over suspension kits allow you to achieve the ideal height without compromising on handling or comfort.

2. Improved Handling and Stability

Coil overs are designed to improve your vehicle's handling by providing more control over the suspension’s damping. With adjustable settings for compression and rebound, coil over systems help maintain tire contact with the road, which is crucial for improved cornering, braking, and overall stability, especially at high speeds.

3. Enhanced Ride Quality

While traditional suspension systems often compromise comfort for performance or vice versa, coil over suspensions provide a balance between both. With the ability to fine-tune the suspension settings, you can achieve a smoother ride while still having the performance benefits of stiffer settings when needed.

4. Customization for Specific Driving Needs

Coil over systems give drivers the ability to set the suspension to meet specific driving needs, whether it’s for daily driving, performance driving, or off-roading. This flexibility makes them ideal for enthusiasts who demand more from their vehicles in terms of performance and comfort.

5. Durability and Longevity

High-quality coil over suspension systems, like those offered by BLOX Racing, are built to withstand the rigors of demanding driving conditions. The materials used in the construction of the shock absorber and coil spring are durable, resistant to corrosion, and designed for long-lasting performance.

Types of Coil Over Suspension Systems

Coil over suspension systems come in a variety of types and configurations, each suited to different types of vehicles and driving styles. Here are the most common types:

1. Single Adjustable Coil Over Suspension

A single adjustable coil over allows for adjustment of either the rebound or compression damping. This is the most basic form of coil over suspension, offering a balance between performance and cost. It’s ideal for street-driven vehicles or enthusiasts looking to improve handling without needing a high level of customization.

2. Double Adjustable Coil Over Suspension

Double adjustable coil overs offer the ability to adjust both the rebound and compression settings independently. This type of system provides more fine-tuned control over the suspension, making it a preferred choice for track-day enthusiasts, racers, or those who want more flexibility in their suspension setup.

3. Triple Adjustable Coil Over Suspension

Triple adjustable systems take adjustability to the next level by adding a third setting: the high-speed compression. This type of system is primarily used by professional racers who require the ultimate level of precision in their suspension adjustments. Triple adjustable coil overs are not typically necessary for everyday driving but are ideal for competitive motorsport.

How to Install Coil Over Suspension

Installing a coil over suspension system is a relatively straightforward process, though it requires a basic understanding of suspension systems and proper tools. Below is a general overview of the installation steps:

1. Preparation

• Begin by gathering the necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, and a spring compressor if needed.

• Ensure that the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and that the wheels are off the ground.

2. Remove the Old Suspension

• Carefully remove the existing shock absorbers and springs, taking care to release any tension on the components before removing them.

• Depending on your vehicle’s design, you may need to remove components like sway bars, lower control arms, or the strut assembly to access the suspension.

3. Install the Coil Over Suspension

• Begin installing the coil over units by securing the shock absorber and spring in place using the proper mounts.

• Adjust the ride height as needed by adjusting the position of the coil spring on the strut or shock absorber body.

• Reattach any components that were removed during the disassembly process.

4. Set Initial Damping Settings

• Adjust the rebound and compression damping settings to your preferred baseline before driving the vehicle.

• It’s essential to test the vehicle in a controlled environment to fine-tune these settings for optimal performance.

5. Test and Inspect

• Once installed, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the suspension performs as expected. Listen for any unusual noises and inspect the system for proper clearance and alignment.

Maintenance Tips for Coil Over Suspension

To ensure that your coil over suspension system performs optimally and lasts for many years, regular maintenance is required. Here are a few tips for keeping your suspension in top shape:

1. Regular Inspection

Inspect the coil over suspension units for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Check the shock absorbers for leakage, as this can indicate internal damage or wear.

2. Clean the Suspension Components

Clean the coil springs and shock absorbers regularly to prevent dirt, debris, or road salt from causing corrosion or reducing performance.

3. Re-valve or Rebuild the Shocks

Over time, the shock absorbers may lose their effectiveness due to wear. Re-valving or rebuilding the shocks will restore the damping performance and keep the suspension responsive.

4. Lubricate Moving Parts

Ensure that all moving components of the suspension, such as the mounting hardware and adjustment knobs, are lubricated to prevent friction and wear.

Conclusion

Coil over suspension systems offer unparalleled customization, performance, and durability, making them a preferred choice for automotive enthusiasts who want to enhance their vehicle’s handling, ride quality, and appearance. Whether you’re looking to improve your car’s stance, increase cornering capabilities, or fine-tune your suspension for track use, coil overs provide a versatile solution for a wide range of driving needs. With the right coil over kit from BLOX Racing, you can take your vehicle’s performance to the next level, ensuring an unforgettable driving experience.