FitnessFreak83

iTrader: (2)

Hey everyone,

A couple of weeks ago I noticed that the 2 top collars on my Apex coilovers had worked loose (top one sets pre load and lock it into place). On measuring i found that it was about 14cm between the top 2 and the bottom collar, the "fixed" side measuring at 17cm!!

Now since setting them both at 17cm I find that when I drive something doesn't feel right from the rear; to try and describe this to you I would say it's like I have a flat tyre on that corner with it's slight "up and down motion" that that would give - even on a flat straight road??

Any ideas here guys????

Thank you

FitnessFreak83

iTrader: (2)

Anyone???? Someone must have an opinion on this surely??.....

davedipster

Jack the car up and loosen the top collars.
wind them top down until the spring is lose.
now wind the top collar back up until it touches the spring.
now wind a further 5mm up.
lock the rings together.
now you have perfect pre-load.

Do this on all corners.
Dipster

JohnD

iTrader: (5)

The ride height was most likely set (who by?) by measurement of wheelarch to wheelrim (or wheel centre) in which case the actual strut length my differ from side to side. It's possible that the ride height is now unequal.
Follow Daves procedure above, then -
Choose a FLAT piece of ground and measure the distance from the wheelarch to wheelrim (not tyre) on both sides. Equalise by slackening the bottom collar and screwing the strut in or out of the hub. One turn = 2mm If you've got the later rubber top mounts on the rear, you may find it quite difficult to turn as the spring will be turning in its top rubber seat. You may need to repeat this procedure a couple of times to get it ok.
The above is a bit of a laymans guide - if you want it set spot-on you'll have to go to a PROPER motorsport alignment specialist.

JohnD

FitnessFreak83

iTrader: (2)

Thanks guys (i knew someone out there would know!)

I just kinda presumed that both sides should be the same length thats all

Just out of curiosity, would all this be sorted by going for a full geo set up???...
was thinking of getting it done along with my service?

thanks again fellas

JohnD

iTrader: (5)

No, the alignment will set toe and camber front and rear - if taken to a specialist who knows Subarus. Getting the ride height optimised at each corner would normally require a different set of measurements. Setting the height by the method I described is adequate. As an example my wheelarch to wheelrim measurements (03 STi) with the Apex are a nominal 100mm front, 90mm rear. This gives a slight nose down attitude. The SLIGHTEST uneveness of ground will change the figures!
Get the ride height set before you get the alignment done.
As you have a classic, the above figures may not work for you but are given as an example.

JohnD

FitnessFreak83

iTrader: (2)

Thanks again Mr johnD, iv just checked and they are indeed uneven!

Next job - HOPE the collars arent seized!!!