How do I choose suspension spring rate?

When attempting to determine the correct spring rate for a car, the trick is to set the ride height so the chassis rests in the shocks’ sweet spot within this small 3- to 4-inch window. A solid-axle rear suspension, on the other hand, is a bit more forgiving.

What is spring rate kg?

Spring rate is expressed as the amount of force required to compress a spring a set distance. The measurement is expressed in metric (kg/mm) or in standard (lbs/in).

What is 5K spring rate?

So if a spring is listed at 5k it would mean it takes 5 kilograms of force to compress the spring 1 millimeter. If your spring rate is 450lb/in (pounds per inch) it will mean it takes 450 pounds of force to compress the spring 1 inch.

What does K mean in suspension?

Most commonly seen is a spring rate given in KG/mm or LBS/in. This means the weighted force / the space traveled. For example, 700LB/in would mean 700 pounds will compress that spring 1”. This can also be read as 12.5K/mm (12.5kg to compress spring 25mm).

Is lower spring rate more comfortable?

Lower spring rates will provide you with a softer feel, but you get more grip. When going over a bump or curb, softer springs will maintain contact with the road better than stiffer springs.

Is bouncy suspension good?

Uneven wear on tires is the biggest visual indicator that your vehicle needs a new component or suspension system. A worn suspension system means more bouncing, which means your tires are also moving as they hit the ground. This causes them to lose rubber.

Should new suspension make noise?

There is most likely nothing wrong with the replacement shock or strut, but a metallic clunking noise typically indicates loose or worn mounting hardware. A loose mount can allow movement between the bolt and attaching parts, while a mount that is worn can cause the shock/strut to move up and down.

What is 8K spring rate?

What does it mean when they say 8K or 500lb Spring Rate? When someone says “8K” they are shortening the metric measurement of the spring rate; in this case 8 kg/mm. What this means is that if you apply 8 kilograms of weight to the top of the spring it will compress 1mm.

What is 5k spring rate?

Should suspension be soft or hard?

The purpose of a suspension is to keep your tires on the ground. A softer suspension will offer more mechanical grip as it will do a better job of keeping the tires on the ground vs a stiff suspension when it comes to depressions, bumps, and surface irregularities in the road.