Believe it Folks, these are the real thing

[Donny Carlson]

I drove my car 14K miles before installing Eibach springs. I know how it feels with OEM springs, and with the Eibachs. I have not driven an MM with cut springs.

Today I had the pleasure of driving an MM with the Naake Suspensions QA1 shock and coil-over set, with QA1 shocks on the rears. This car had the exact same lowered look as it did when it had Eibachs, yet drove even BETTER than an MM with OEM springs!

Here is Marty holding one of the coil-overs while showing it to Steve Babcock:

http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/data/500/1136IMG_1743.jpg

This is the real thing, folks. I went over broken pavement, man hole covers, speed bumps, the kinds of things my Eibachs are very unforgiving about, and it felt even smoother than I remember my OEMs felt. It was GREAT! The car has that big car ride, but retains the tight performance handling the Eibachs offered. And, they are adjustable for more firmness, should you want that kind of ride.

As usual, a ride in Todd's car is going to cost me another 1000 skins.

[FiveO]

Damnit Donny!

Quit posting things that are going to cost me money!!!

:)

Actually Todd told me about these things....sounds like there the real deal.

Thanks for the info...appreciated.

[RCSignals]

I went over broken pavement, man hole covers, speed bumps

While Todd isn't listening, how'd it do jumping curbs? ;)

[rayjay]

The BIG question, how much? Coil overs were about $1000-$1200 plus install for a Focus. Can't imagine how much these are.:P

[TripleTransAm]

Here is Marty holding one of the coil-overs while showing it to Steve Babcock:

http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/data/500/1136IMG_1743.jpg


Can I volunteer a quote for that photo?

MartyO: "And Todd REALLY squeals when I use *this* end instead..."

[martyo]

I too have driven Todd's car nad driven it hard too! His car holds the road like a small, performance car. If you can spare the dough this is a very worthwhile upgrade. If you doubt the benefits, make your way to Todd's and get a hold of his keys (he hands them out pretty freely (did I ever tell you about the time he gave the keys to a complete stranger who wasn't afraid to push Todd's car and took us on quite the joy ride :eek: ?).

One hard drive in Todd's car and you will be buying this set up.

[woaface]

I remember driving Todd's car without the front swaybar, coilovers and metco arms. At that, it was one of the most memorable, and it drove like a friggin dream. I can't even imagine what it's like now!

[TechHeavy]

I too have driven Todd's car nad driven it hard too! His car holds the road like a small, performance car. If you can spare the dough this is a very worthwhile upgrade. If you doubt the benefits, make your way to Todd's and get a hold of his keys (he hands them out pretty freely (did I ever tell you about the time he gave the keys to a complete stranger who wasn't afraid to push Todd's car and took us on quite the joy ride :eek: ?).

One hard drive in Todd's car and you will be buying this set up.
Darn it! Sheesh... how much is it??!! Now I gotta have it.

[CRUZTAKER]

YEAH...

How about Marty or Tod telling us all the price of such an item. A pair I assume, and who makes them as well.

These are totally cool. Nice post Donny.

[TAF]

YEAH...

How about Marty or Tod telling us all the price of such an item. A pair I assume, and who makes them as well.

These are totally cool. Nice post Donny.

So...I just came back from some "spirited driving". All I can say is I thought I couldn't enhance the handling of this car any further...but little did I know. The new coil overs up front and rear shocks are UNBELIEVABLE!!!!

Add to that the NEW tread BFG G-Forces......SWEET!!!!

Just click the pic....



http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/data/500/83IMG_1831-med.JPG (http://www.naake.com/MercMarauder.html)

[RCSignals]

So, Todd, would you say you like these better than Eibachs?

[martyo]

So, Todd, would you say you like these better than Eibachs?

Duncan: Todd is off playing, while I am working, but I believe I can speak for Todd here and say "Yes". We both switched out the Eibachs (which we both liked an awful lot) for these which are to die for.

[RCSignals]

and they only cost "1000 skins" ? is that for all four?

[TAF]

So, Todd, would you say you like these better than Eibachs?
These provide the lowered stance and surpass the handling performance of the Eibachs...but, your car will feel MUCH better than it did bone stock over even the largest bumps.

I also must say that the new BFGoodrich G-Force KDWs are AWESOME as well!!!!

http://www.tirerack.com/images/tires/bfg/bfg_gforce_ta_kdw2_ci2_l.jpg

[Petrograde]

...figures,.... I just got some Eibachs...sigh... :rolleyes:

[CRUZTAKER]

Alright you two...give up some specifics...I know I did you wrong, but share the nitty gritty.

Where does one find these?

And the new KDW's...I've seen them in magazines, but what sizes are you utilizing?

All this typing is killing my left index finger...and I keep spelling words wrong.:(

[martyo]

Alright you two...give up some specifics...I know I did you wrong, but share the nitty gritty.

Did us wrong??? When????

Anyway, old news is just that, old!

Click here for the shock/spring combo: http://www.naake.com/MercMarauder.html

And, click on the Tire Rack add on our site for the tires like we did for Todd's tires (for those that don't know, this helpd to get dough into the MM.Net coffers). By the way, the center tread pattern is shaped like a flame which is just too cool for school!

[TAF]

Alright you two...give up some specifics...
Uh...I think in post #10 I said "Click the pic".....

[martyo]

Uh...I think in post #10 I said "Click the pic".....

Barry is heavily medicated, that's why i made it easier for him!


:lol:

[CRUZTAKER]

Sorry Tod, I am not quite full of faculties this evening, I missed that.

Nice site, just what I was lookking for.

Tire Rack still shoots users to our OEM tires no matter what you plug in. I assume you are using all four same size, but what size?

If you already posted, sorry, like I said, I'm a mess tonight....so I am saving all responses in favorites to review them when the morphine wears off...:P

[martyo]

Tire Rack still shoots users to our OEM tires no matter what you plug in. I assume you are using all four same size, but what size?

How's this Barry?:

Click HERE to learn more about the NEW BFG's (http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=g-Force+T%2FA+KDW+2&vehicleSearch=false&partnum=555VR8GFTAKDW2RF&fromCompare1=yes)

http://www.tirerack.com/images/tires/bfg/bfg_gforce_ta_kdw2_ci2_l.jpght tp://www.tirerack.com/images/tires/bfg/bfg_gforce_ta_kdw2_ci1_l.jpght tp://www.tirerack.com/images/tires/bfg/bfg_gforce_ta_kdw2_ci3_l.jpg

[Donny Carlson]

and they only cost "1000 skins" ? is that for all four?
Actually, Duncan, they cost less than 1000 skins (front coil overss and rear shocks). I have to add a bit for installation, since I am as useless with a wrench as the Toddster.

[CRUZTAKER]

How's this Barry?:

Click HERE to learn more about the NEW BFG's (http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=g-Force+T%2FA+KDW+2&vehicleSearch=false&partnum=555VR8GFTAKDW2RF&fromCompare1=yes)


OK. Got it. Sorry again for the derailment. 255/55VR18 seems to be the size appropriate for now, however they say other sizes will soon be available. Perhaps OEM sizes may be in our future?

[TAF]

OK. Got it. Sorry again for the derailment. 255/55VR18 seems to be the size appropriate for now, however they say other sizes will soon be available. Perhaps OEM sizes may be in our future?
I went 255/55/18 on the rears...and stock/OEM size of 235/50/18s on the fronts...

And it looks SWEET!

[FordNut]

OK. Got it. Sorry again for the derailment. 255/55VR18 seems to be the size appropriate for now, however they say other sizes will soon be available. Perhaps OEM sizes may be in our future?
And maybe some 295/45s for the widened rims!

[studio460]

Wow! This is awesome news!!! I have the Eibachs installed, and I've got the lower series Nittos on as well, so my ride quality is pretty doggone harsh. Sure, the combination made for a total drop of nearly two inches, and it does look awesome, but I'm definitely looking for a smoother ride now. If the price I saw on the link is correct for the full set (front coil-overs/rear shocks), it's worth it!!!

With the new coil-over/rear shock combo, all the Metco goodies, and Addco sway bar installed, our Marauders should handle f*****g AWESOME!!!

[TAF]

Shooter...do this! You will be SOOOOO happy! :up:

[studio460]

Shooter...do this! You will be SOOOOO happy! :up:Thanks, Todd! I certainly trust your your recommendations when it comes to our Marauders. Yeah, I can't wait to see how the car drives with those new shocks and progressive-rate springs.

[FordNut]

So these are progressive-rate springs on the adjustable coilovers? And the ride height can be adjusted to the same as OEM? OK, so call ModsAnonymous for me.

[studio460]

. . . This car had the exact same lowered look as it did when it had Eibachs, yet drove even BETTER than an MM with OEM springs!Hey, FordNut! I think, perhaps you may have misread the ride height statement?

[wesman]

TAF sent me this about the new setup:

Actually...the QA1 springs ARE linear...they just look and somewhat "act") progressive the way they are installed on the shocks.


I am thinking I will pull the trigger on these closer to Spring.

[FordNut]

TAF sent me this about the new setup:

Actually...the QA1 springs ARE linear...they just look and somewhat "act") progressive the way they are installed on the shocks.


I am thinking I will pull the trigger on these closer to Spring.
Whew! dodged that bullet.

[TAF]

You can set the fronts to "stock" ride heighth....the front springs can be adjusted up to 4 inches to get just the heighth you want. I'll try to take a pic of my new "stance" this morning and post it.

[TAF]

Pic of new "stance"... (more pics in the Gallery)

http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/data/500/83IMG_1948-med.JPG (http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/showphoto.php/photo/6096/size/big/password/263233a0dd0b5fe0053e90d33d4b6b a0/sort/1/cat/last1)

[BruteForce]

Got my order in this morning. :banana2:

[studio460]

Sorry, FordNut, I guess I was confused!

[TripleG]

You can set the fronts to "stock" ride heighth....the front springs can be adjusted up to 4 inches to get just the heighth you want. I'll try to take a pic of my new "stance" this morning and post it.

Does the complete Tuner Kit replace the Air suspension system?

[martyo]

Does the complete Tuner Kit replace the Air suspension system?

No, the rear air bags remain.

[GA-Marauder]

I'm looking at the more economical route right now, and have ordered the Eibachs after reading previous posts from Todd, etc. praising them. Understand they will be stiffer than OEM, but really am looking for a more aggressive stance, and handling improvements. Can't shell out the 1K now, and want to make sure I'm doing the right thing. Enlighten me.:help:


So...I just came back from some "spirited driving". All I can say is I thought I couldn't enhance the handling of this car any further...but little did I know. The new coil overs up front and rear shocks are UNBELIEVABLE!!!!

Add to that the NEW tread BFG G-Forces......SWEET!!!!

Just click the pic....



http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/data/500/83IMG_1831-med.JPG (http://www.naake.com/MercMarauder.html)

[TAF]

I'm looking at the more economical route right now, and have ordered the Eibachs after reading previous posts from Todd, etc. praising them. Understand they will be stiffer than OEM, but really am looking for a more aggressive stance, and handling improvements. Can't shell out the 1K now, and want to make sure I'm doing the right thing. Enlighten me.:help:
First...you need to cancel your Eibach order and buy mine for MUCH cheaper!!! :up:
PM me if interested.

[Marauder]

You guys are a bad influence!!! I'm happy with my cut OEM springs because of the lowered stance, better handling, and stock feel...but now hearing this stuff, I'm tempted.

[reporterjoel]

Hey beware there are now four kits on there way to customers, so now "legal" might have some competition, at least in handling, LOL




You guys are a bad influence!!! I'm happy with my cut OEM springs because of the lowered stance, better handling, and stock feel...but now hearing this stuff, I'm tempted.

[BruteForce]

Hey beware there are now four kits on there way to customers, so now "legal" might have some competition, at least in handling, LOL


Having mine installed tomorrow. :D

[TAF]

Having mine installed tomorrow. :DYOU are going to TRULY dig it!!!! Let me know about your first drive.:burnout:

FYI...these springs act like a progressive spring and will settle nicely...I've adjusted mine twice so far (front end higher) and I still have a nice low look...so I recommend you start out higher than you'd expect.

And if you have any questions...let me know and I'll help in any way. :up:

[DirtyDog]

Having mine installed tomorrow. :D
OK, I'm ready for your review. You've had a few days to try them out.

Dave

[BruteForce]

OK, I'm ready for your review. You've had a few days to try them out.

Dave

Actually got them (semi-finally) tweaked today. Thanks to Todd for the recommended settings. I have the front lowered in an extreme fashion (can't see the top of the tire) right now but may raise it up a bit if it gets to be too much of an issue with speed bumps and such. I think I will go ahead and get the special "Coil over Adjustment Wrench with Thrust Bearings" Naake sells as it is really a PIA to adjust the height once they are installed.

The original settings I asked for when installed turned out to be too harsh (bounced like a Cholo going down the street - Como si hombre!). Had to wait until today to get that tweaked. It was a little too wet today to do any serious testing but what little I did do was pretty good. Mind you I have Z&M control arms and upgraded front & rear AddCo sway bars as well. Anyway this setup keeps the thing flat as a skate around corners. Those spots where it was really easy to get the back end to break loose are much better now, still spins the tires but the a$$ end doesn't try and cross the centerline. Hoping for some dry pavement soon so I can really give it a work out.

Highly recommended.

[DirtyDog]

Actually got them (semi-finally) tweaked today. Thanks to Todd for the recommended settings. I have the front lowered in an extreme fashion (can't see the top of the tire) right now but may raise it up a bit if it gets to be too much of an issue with speed bumps and such. I think I will go ahead and get the special "Coil over Adjustment Wrench with Thrust Bearings" Naake sells as it is really a PIA to adjust the height once they are installed.

The original settings I asked for when installed turned out to be too harsh (bounced like a Cholo going down the street - Como si hombre!). Had to wait until today to get that tweaked. It was a little too wet today to do any serious testing but what little I did do was pretty good. Mind you I have Z&M control arms and upgraded front & rear AddCo sway bars as well. Anyway this setup keeps the thing flat as a skate around corners. Those spots where it was really easy to get the back end to break loose are much better now, still spins the tires but the a$$ end doesn't try and cross the centerline. Hoping for some dry pavement soon so I can really give it a work out.

Highly recommended.


How do you rate the firm to softness adjustment settings. Sounds like you can make it more firm. Can you make them softer than stock?

How long did it take for them to install them. I have the money set a side for them, but, I knew you would be the one to jump in and be the test pilot for the west coast.

Dave

[BruteForce]

How do you rate the firm to softness adjustment settings. Sounds like you can make it more firm. Can you make them softer than stock?

How long did it take for them to install them. I have the money set a side for them, but, I knew you would be the one to jump in and be the test pilot for the west coast.

Dave

I don't know about the ride toward the softer end as I haven't gone too far in that direction. It has 12 points of adjustment so I'm sure you'd find one to your preference. I can't give you a firm number for the install time as mine ran into a couple glitches that you could probably avoid. First one was the bushings on the rears were the wrong size to reuse the OEM bolts. Had to have those overnighted. The second was that we didn't have the correct tool for adjusting the height. I have since ordered the "Coil Over Wrench w/Thrust Bearings" from Naake ($43 + shipping) so subsequent adjustments will be easier. The install tech had to rig a spacer wrench to make height adjustments and he said it was a PIA and took forever to get it to move even a little bit. I would guess with the right tools and a competent installer that it shouldn't take more than a couple hours.

[DirtyDog]

I don't know about the ride toward the softer end as I haven't gone too far in that direction. It has 12 points of adjustment so I'm sure you'd find one to your preference. I can't give you a firm number for the install time as mine ran into a couple glitches that you could probably avoid. First one was the bushings on the rears were the wrong size to reuse the OEM bolts. Had to have those overnighted. The second was that we didn't have the correct tool for adjusting the height. I have since ordered the "Coil Over Wrench w/Thrust Bearings" from Naake ($43 + shipping) so subsequent adjustments will be easier. The install tech had to rig a spacer wrench to make height adjustments and he said it was a PIA and took forever to get it to move even a little bit. I would guess with the right tools and a competent installer that it shouldn't take more than a couple hours.


Maybe if your going to be around this weekend we could get together and compare notes and mods. I have something new also.

Dave

[BruteForce]

Maybe if your going to be around this weekend we could get together and compare notes and mods. I have something new also.

Dave


Something new? Come on... spill it. :)

[Yamaha]

I drove my car 14K miles before installing Eibach springs. I know how it feels with OEM springs, and with the Eibachs. I have not driven an MM with cut springs.

Today I had the pleasure of driving an MM with the Naake Suspensions QA1 shock and coil-over set, with QA1 shocks on the rears. This car had the exact same lowered look as it did when it had Eibachs, yet drove even BETTER than an MM with OEM springs!

Here is Marty holding one of the coil-overs while showing it to Steve Babcock:

http://www.mercurygallery.net/mmnet/data/500/1136IMG_1743.jpg

This is the real thing, folks. I went over broken pavement, man hole covers, speed bumps, the kinds of things my Eibachs are very unforgiving about, and it felt even smoother than I remember my OEMs felt. It was GREAT! The car has that big car ride, but retains the tight performance handling the Eibachs offered. And, they are adjustable for more firmness, should you want that kind of ride.

As usual, a ride in Todd's car is going to cost me another 1000 skins.Hi Donny I am in the process of doing the coilovers. Rears are in. Back end feels NEW again. Can't wait to do the fronts. Question about reuse of the stock top spring mount and isolator. Did you use the stock isolator ? I am got a spare pair of the mounts and energy inserts but not sure they will fit properly. The fit the ID and OD of the spring but appears a bit to much slop witin the mount. The stock ones are 45 a pop ! Sbodnar@corus.jnj.com Thanks, Stan

[Donny Carlson]

Hi Donny I am in the process of doing the coilovers. Rears are in. Back end feels NEW again. Can't wait to do the fronts. Question about reuse of the stock top spring mount and isolator. Did you use the stock isolator ? I am got a spare pair of the mounts and energy inserts but not sure they will fit properly. The fit the ID and OD of the spring but appears a bit to much slop witin the mount. The stock ones are 45 a pop ! Sbodnar@corus.jnj.com Thanks, Stan
Maybe Todd should answer this, as I have yet to do this mod. Try sending TAF a PM.