[200q20v] Re: Suspension set up

[Bernie Benz]

Hi Chris,

Response to your Qs below, but I'll take the liberty to copy the list also,
inasmuch as I don't track my car, and some think that my opinions are
contrarian.  (Who, me?)

Bernie

> From: "Chris Alber" <Calber at TheSycamoreGroup.com>
> Date: Mon, 9 Jul 2001 15:27:50 -0400
> To: <b.m.benz at prodigy.net>
> Subject: Suspension set up
> 
> Hi Bernie,
> I have a 1989 200Q.  I purchased this from a person who set up the
> suspension as follows:
> 
> Konis all set at the firmest setting
IMO, unless these Konis are very old and worn, the firmest setting is way
beyond critical damping for this spring/mass system, and will reallly slow
down the rebound recovery.  Critical damping, the optimum, will return the
suspension to static position in the shortest time without overshoot.  I'd
start by setting the adjustment just 1 turn firmer than wide open, and
incriment a half turn at a time from there, if necessary.
> Stock springs with spacers removed or replaced with shorter spacers, not too
> sure
The front suspension upper spring perch uses a rubber damper ring, available
in 3 thicknesses, 3/8, 5/8, and 3/4", intended for equalizing ride height,
side to side.  No adjustment on the rear.
> 16x8 ( I think) A8 rims, the ones that came on the 98 or 99 modes, five
> spoke
> Dunlop SP5000 205/55/16 Zrated.  rubbing a little on left rear since I
> replaced the p7000 50 series, seems to have less clearance on the left rear
> than the right rear, is this normal?
Check Cris Miller's web page on this.  Quite a bit has been written about
the rear wheel well liners having a "kink" in the plastic that can be
removed with a heat gun.
> 
> I think the car could be better for instance I had a 85 4000Q with Boge TG's
> and Eibachs with Bridgestone re930 on stock, I think 14" wheels, that car
> felt so much better, pure driving pleasure..
> 
> The car I drive now is too firm, wallows over  one sided bumps in the road.
> I feel it has more potential...
Apparently a common problem with larger wheels and wider tires, which
agravate loose/worn suspension components and poor alignment.
> 
> I am looking for a better set up and any input would be appreciated..
> Probably buying your strut bar too
> 
> Oh, my driving habits, I have never been on the track, might go someday, but
> I enjoy curvy roads and the occasional exhilarating ride.  I love the car
> but I feel there is better handling to receive from it...  It is a daily
> driver that I feel could handle better....
> 
> Regards,
>> Chris Alber
>> Senior Solutions Analyst
>> The Sycamore Group
>> (office) 215-283-9958 x249
>> (mobile)  215-280-4344
>> calber at thesycamoregroup.com
>