Hi Everybody, I know there are forums dedicated to this subject, but I was curious what MoM folks have done in this area. This is regarding my 2013 R56 JCW. I have the JCW front strut brace/bar already on, my Hotchkis 25mm competition rear ASB is on the way from Aaron, and I just had Michelin PSS tires put on. To make this car handle more on rails then it already does, I think my ultimate step would be coilovers? There are so many options out there, it's mind-numbing. I am likely looking for something adjustable so it's not rock hard around central Ohio's crappy roads, but allows me to adjust the pre-load when I head down to the Dragon and other wonderful roads. So, what have you folks tried that you are happy with? thanks Jeff Columbus
I think a set of Swift springs & IE fixed camber plates would be good. You'll also need some adjustable lower arms. I'd recommend H-Sports. PM Metalman & ask him what he has done to his JCW. He seems very happy with his setup.
I'm happy with lowering springs and Koni yellows. Coil overs are great but I didn't like the ride when I had them on my R53. If I would seriously need them more than 4 or 5 times a year that would be different. For running back roads and a trip to the Dragon once a year the springs and Koni's have worked well for my last 2 JCW's. 25mm Hotchis Competition Sway Bar, Hotchis lower control arms and camber plates. Just my 2 cents. Have Josh powdercoat the springs and control arms red.
The Philly burbs have roads just like Ohio roads because of snow and salt. No mater what coil overs you get make sure you add Swift springs. They are the key to a nice ride but are still able hold the road very well when you run the Dragon. Just my $ .02
Rear adjustable control arms seem to compliment the beefy rear adj. 3-hole swaybar I have on my S. I have the IE fixed camber plates and a beefier front swaybar, as well as TSW springs.
Don't forget to upgrade your bushings - lower control arm bushings and lower engine mount aka torque arm offer the biggest bang for the buck. Stiffer polyurethane LCA bushings will give better precision while turning at the limit.