Do-It-Yourself High Performance Car Mods

Coil-over Conversions

Sometimes the word “coil-over” is used to describe any combination of a shock absorber or strut with a coil spring wrapped around it. Recently, however, this word has come to refer to aftermarket parts that fit around a shock and have a threaded spring perch to allow for easy changes in the ride height. Some coil-over kits work with an existing shock absorber or strut, and include appropriate springs. These can frequently be found for approximately $500 a set, sometimes less. More expensive coil-over kits include the shocks, adjustable perches, and springs in one unit. Expect to pay $1,200 or more for one of these kits from a top quality manufacturer.

There are several cautions about installing coil-overs. The first is that ...