SVT spring swap - Page 13 - Focaljet

**humphrey** · 09-05-2002, 01:42 PM

Well, after all that talk about swappin out the springs and dampers, I've gone and spent my money on something else. No new springs and dampers, but one brand new Poseidon Odin regulator. To everyone else doin the swap, good luck and I hope everything turns out well for you.

Jeff

**Daniel** · 09-05-2002, 10:39 PM

Well, I ordered the SVT springs and the bumpstops for my ZX3. We'll see how they work out...

**TboneZX3** · 09-07-2002, 10:33 AM

I've updated the measurement numbers from floor to wheel well lip for the spring/damper swap. The before, after, and settled numbers are below:

Before:

LF: 25 7/8"
RF: 25 3/4"
LR: 26 3/4"
RR: 26 3/4"

After:

LF: 25 7/16"
RF: 25 5/16"
LR: 26 1/2"
RR: 26 1/2"

Settled:

LF: 25 3/16"
RF: 25 1/8"
LR: 26 3/16"
RR: 26 5/16"

So, it appears that after settling, the drop for a ZX3 is about 3/4" front, and 1/2-3/4" rear.

Greg - note that all fractions are now fully reduced. [img]images/icons/rolleyes.gif[/img]

**greg ZTS2** · 09-07-2002, 11:07 PM

THANK GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!! You were starting to scare me with your math skills!!!!!!!!!! [img]images/icons/tongue.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/tongue.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

**fishjam40** · 09-08-2002, 03:35 PM

That kinda drop sounds about right...I didn't take detailed measurements..just took a tape measure and guesstimated..it's pretty much a drop that only someone (like the owner) would be able to tell a difference. Im loving it though! [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img]

Oh yeah..I forgot to mention it in my earlier post, but I wound up only paying 90 bucks for all my long waiting... [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

[ 09-08-2002: Message edited by: fishjam40 ]</p>

**1BadEgg** · 09-08-2002, 10:36 PM

Think mine may have came out about the same. Thanks T-Bone for putting so much into your documentation. One odd thing, I did measure a little more true lately, and for some reasons my right side rear is a little less than 1/4 of an inch higher than the left rear. I am certain that the springs were set into the proper configuration. Any ideas why it may be higher?

**MichaelXi** · 09-08-2002, 10:41 PM

Roll back and forth, (W/O turning), w/ a couple of quick brake-applications, and re-measure.
Please report back.
[img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

**TboneZX3** · 09-09-2002, 04:54 PM

BadEgg, maybe your fat a$$ is weakening the left side springs. [img]graemlins/evilgrin.gif[/img]

Damn, did I just say that? [img]images/icons/shocked.gif[/img]

j/k. [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

Actually, a 1/4" difference from one side to the other isn't considered large as far as factory chassis specs are concerned. Did you happen to notice any difference side-to-side before you swapped?

**1BadEgg** · 09-09-2002, 07:42 PM

Hmmmmm [img]graemlins/lol.gif[/img] Nope it is the Right side so couldn't be my firm but yielding ass. [img]graemlins/evilgrin.gif[/img] but it does make wonder what you REALLY do with that SVT Snorkle... [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] .You know, good point though, I neglected to measure space before the swap. I guess no one would notice but me, but I would love to have that 1/4+ back. Thanks T-Bone

For Michael, tried your trick, no change, but appreciate it.

I have to take the Egg in for it's routine maintenance check at Ford this week, may mention it to them and see what happens. As far as they know, it is still high enough that I doubt they wouldn't think they are anything but the stock springs.

**MichaelXi** · 09-09-2002, 08:09 PM

Since the "Move the car/Shift the Chassis" Trick didn't change anything, I can only assume that either TboneZX3 is right about spec-tolerances, OR, the left spring somehow isn't seated properly.
[img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

**1BadEgg** · 09-09-2002, 08:29 PM

Thanks guys, will check how it is seated again, will try to coax Ford to do it first.. [img]graemlins/evilgrin.gif[/img]

**Daniel** · 09-12-2002, 05:57 PM

ooh boy, my SVT springs just showed up at my door! w00t!

**PointFocus** · 09-13-2002, 01:02 PM

If anyone is interested, I just posted the part # for the SVT rear shocks in the SVT parts thread. [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

**4dse** · 09-13-2002, 03:55 PM

OK OK whats going on here ? i just checked my coil springs on the SPI sedan - my #'s match the SVT #'s ,at all 4 corners ! the wheel to fender gap measured 6.625. can someone shed some light on this?

**Crankenstein** · 09-14-2002, 12:48 AM

Got the SVT rear springs for $26.42 per and S2 rear shocks (YS4Z-18125-DA) for $29.95 per from my local dealer. fordpartsonline.com can probably beat those prices, but it was nice to have them ordered here close.

Not sure how big of a difference there is between the S2 and SVT rear shock is, but the SVT shocks appear to be around $68 per, so you can save quite a bit of $$$ going with the S2 shock.

**Blackrat** · 09-14-2002, 07:31 AM

New guy on the block, Hello to all!! Thanks to all who provided info. on svt spring swap. ordered frt.,rear and bumpstops yesterday! Criticl fill order ($12) total price=$135. No word on backorder,hope that means no problem. I hope to put them in myself next weekend,just need to get spring comp., can't wait to feel the ride!!! Hope to post pics. soon. Again thanks to all!!!

[size="1"][ 09-14-2002, 08:14 AM: Message edited by: Blackrat ][/size]

**everyone-needs-a-clear-focus** · 09-16-2002, 09:42 AM

how does this whole svt spring/strut/shock swap compare to non-ford aftermarket setups?

**1BadEgg** · 09-18-2002, 07:01 PM

I must be on drugs (no that was last week) Anyway I swear that my ZX3's height has crept back up around a half an inch or so. After the initial SVT spring swap it was around 3/4 lower which was the standard. It still handles great, but is looking like a 4X4 again. Still haven't changed out the shocks/struts for S2/SVT or aftermarket. Could that be the problem?

**Blackrat** · 09-24-2002, 09:42 PM

Spring swap went well (DIY),about six hours in back yard.Ride is better,drop 3/4",rear anti-sway bar next.For all DIYers:ON THE REARS,DROP SWAY BAR OUT OF WAY FIRST!
My car is no longer just a "grocery getter"!

**beboper** · 09-24-2002, 10:21 PM

i got mine on today too. not a noticable drop. she seems happy on these springs.

**PointFocus** · 10-02-2002, 03:57 AM

Just completed the SVT Spring and damper swap on my 2001 ZTS [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] Also installed the prothane rear sway bar bushings and endlinks. I replaced the Eibach Pro Kit because I was getting too much rubbing and having problems with the wonderful NYC area road conditions. I also spend time in Maine and anyone who drives on Maine's "improved" roads will know why I wanted a little more clearance. The ride actually seems firmer with the SVT setup than the Eibach but you don't feel every little bump and crack in the road [img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img] The car rides about 1/2 an inch higher than it did with the Pro Kit. Overall, I definately prefer the SVT setup to the Eibach [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img]

[size="1"][ 10-02-2002, 04:00 AM: Message edited by: PointFocus ][/size]

**Gutted Hatch** · 10-02-2002, 04:29 AM

just ordered the Front and rear SVT springs, and the Front SVT bumpstops. $98.44 shipped. Now all i need is someone who knows what they are doing to install, or help me install them...

**Blackrat** · 10-05-2002, 12:35 AM

SVT springs settled to 3/4-7/8 drop.tighter ride.Entered my first roadcoarse race last sunday,put on by SCCA and vette club.Came back with first place trophy!! [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] (it was novice class,but you gotta start somewhere) About 8 other cars in class cameros, saabs etc.. Old go-cart track, oval,s-turns,hills and hairpins.
My best time- 1:36.5

Best vette time- 1:25.8 (pro- mod class)

I beat on my rat on that tight coarse, she took it very well. top speed was only 50mph but alot of slam'n 1st and 2nd. Much fun!! [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

**Blackrat** · 10-05-2002, 12:45 AM

Failed to mention,after race they had a "fun run" thats when I learned the time keepers thought I was running a HONDA!!!!! [img]graemlins/thumbdown.gif[/img] Gotta get a large FOCUS decal I guess.

**Jason Mandrup** · 10-05-2002, 05:46 PM

Hey everybody
I got my springs and I was going to wait to put them on until I bought new shocks, but I want to put them on now. Does anyone have any pointers on putting the springs on. I know having a spring compressor helps, but does anyone else have any tricks of the trade.

09-05-2002, 01:42 PM	#301
humphrey TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: delray beach, fl Posts: 195	Re: SVT spring swap Well, after all that talk about swappin out the springs and dampers, I've gone and spent my money on something else. No new springs and dampers, but one brand new Poseidon Odin regulator. To everyone else doin the swap, good luck and I hope everything turns out well for you. Jeff

09-05-2002, 10:39 PM	#302
Daniel Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada Posts: 1,104	Re: SVT spring swap Well, I ordered the SVT springs and the bumpstops for my ZX3. We'll see how they work out...

09-07-2002, 10:33 AM	#303
TboneZX3 TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: SwampEast Missouri Posts: 375	Re: SVT spring swap I've updated the measurement numbers from floor to wheel well lip for the spring/damper swap. The before, after, and settled numbers are below: Before: LF: 25 7/8" RF: 25 3/4" LR: 26 3/4" RR: 26 3/4" After: LF: 25 7/16" RF: 25 5/16" LR: 26 1/2" RR: 26 1/2" Settled: LF: 25 3/16" RF: 25 1/8" LR: 26 3/16" RR: 26 5/16" So, it appears that after settling, the drop for a ZX3 is about 3/4" front, and 1/2-3/4" rear. Greg - note that all fractions are now fully reduced. [img]images/icons/rolleyes.gif[/img]

09-07-2002, 11:07 PM	#304
greg ZTS2 Moderator Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Still here on certain days of the week. Posts: 5,791	Re: SVT spring swap THANK GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!! You were starting to scare me with your math skills!!!!!!!!!! [img]images/icons/tongue.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/tongue.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

09-08-2002, 03:35 PM	#305
fishjam40 TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Boiling Springs, SC Posts: 718	Re: SVT spring swap That kinda drop sounds about right...I didn't take detailed measurements..just took a tape measure and guesstimated..it's pretty much a drop that only someone (like the owner) would be able to tell a difference. Im loving it though! [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] Oh yeah..I forgot to mention it in my earlier post, but I wound up only paying 90 bucks for all my long waiting... [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] [ 09-08-2002: Message edited by: fishjam40 ]</p>

09-08-2002, 10:36 PM	#306
1BadEgg TEAM Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 783	Re: SVT spring swap Think mine may have came out about the same. Thanks T-Bone for putting so much into your documentation. One odd thing, I did measure a little more true lately, and for some reasons my right side rear is a little less than 1/4 of an inch higher than the left rear. I am certain that the springs were set into the proper configuration. Any ideas why it may be higher?

09-08-2002, 10:41 PM	#307
MichaelXi Moderator Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Venus Via Knoxville, TN Posts: 24,095	Re: SVT spring swap Roll back and forth, (W/O turning), w/ a couple of quick brake-applications, and re-measure. Please report back. [img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

09-09-2002, 04:54 PM	#308
TboneZX3 TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: SwampEast Missouri Posts: 375	Re: SVT spring swap BadEgg, maybe your fat a$$ is weakening the left side springs. [img]graemlins/evilgrin.gif[/img] Damn, did I just say that? [img]images/icons/shocked.gif[/img] j/k. [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] Actually, a 1/4" difference from one side to the other isn't considered large as far as factory chassis specs are concerned. Did you happen to notice any difference side-to-side before you swapped?

09-09-2002, 07:42 PM	#309
1BadEgg TEAM Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 783	Re: SVT spring swap Hmmmmm [img]graemlins/lol.gif[/img] Nope it is the Right side so couldn't be my firm but yielding ass. [img]graemlins/evilgrin.gif[/img] but it does make wonder what you REALLY do with that SVT Snorkle... [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] .You know, good point though, I neglected to measure space before the swap. I guess no one would notice but me, but I would love to have that 1/4+ back. Thanks T-Bone For Michael, tried your trick, no change, but appreciate it. I have to take the Egg in for it's routine maintenance check at Ford this week, may mention it to them and see what happens. As far as they know, it is still high enough that I doubt they wouldn't think they are anything but the stock springs.

09-09-2002, 08:09 PM	#310
MichaelXi Moderator Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Venus Via Knoxville, TN Posts: 24,095	Re: SVT spring swap Since the "Move the car/Shift the Chassis" Trick didn't change anything, I can only assume that either TboneZX3 is right about spec-tolerances, OR, the left spring somehow isn't seated properly. [img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

09-09-2002, 08:29 PM	#311
1BadEgg TEAM Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 783	Re: SVT spring swap Thanks guys, will check how it is seated again, will try to coax Ford to do it first.. [img]graemlins/evilgrin.gif[/img]

09-12-2002, 05:57 PM	#312
Daniel Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada Posts: 1,104	Re: SVT spring swap ooh boy, my SVT springs just showed up at my door! w00t!

09-13-2002, 01:02 PM	#313
PointFocus Junior Member Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Bethpage, NY, USA Posts: 74	Re: SVT spring swap If anyone is interested, I just posted the part # for the SVT rear shocks in the SVT parts thread. [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

09-13-2002, 03:55 PM	#314
4dse TEAM Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Mn Posts: 778	Re: SVT spring swap OK OK whats going on here ? i just checked my coil springs on the SPI sedan - my #'s match the SVT #'s ,at all 4 corners ! the wheel to fender gap measured 6.625. can someone shed some light on this?

09-14-2002, 12:48 AM	#315
Crankenstein Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Medford, Oregon Posts: 1,659	Re: SVT spring swap Got the SVT rear springs for $26.42 per and S2 rear shocks (YS4Z-18125-DA) for $29.95 per from my local dealer. fordpartsonline.com can probably beat those prices, but it was nice to have them ordered here close. Not sure how big of a difference there is between the S2 and SVT rear shock is, but the SVT shocks appear to be around $68 per, so you can save quite a bit of $$$ going with the S2 shock.

09-14-2002, 07:31 AM	#316
Blackrat Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: central ,NY Posts: 88	Re: SVT spring swap New guy on the block, Hello to all!! Thanks to all who provided info. on svt spring swap. ordered frt.,rear and bumpstops yesterday! Criticl fill order ($12) total price=$135. No word on backorder,hope that means no problem. I hope to put them in myself next weekend,just need to get spring comp., can't wait to feel the ride!!! Hope to post pics. soon. Again thanks to all!!! [size="1"][ 09-14-2002, 08:14 AM: Message edited by: Blackrat ][/size]

09-16-2002, 09:42 AM	#317
everyone-needs-a-clear-focus TEAM Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: (Zach) Sikeston, MO Posts: 616	Re: SVT spring swap how does this whole svt spring/strut/shock swap compare to non-ford aftermarket setups?

09-18-2002, 07:01 PM	#318
1BadEgg TEAM Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 783	Re: SVT spring swap I must be on drugs (no that was last week) Anyway I swear that my ZX3's height has crept back up around a half an inch or so. After the initial SVT spring swap it was around 3/4 lower which was the standard. It still handles great, but is looking like a 4X4 again. Still haven't changed out the shocks/struts for S2/SVT or aftermarket. Could that be the problem?

09-24-2002, 09:42 PM	#319
Blackrat Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: central ,NY Posts: 88	Re: SVT spring swap Spring swap went well (DIY),about six hours in back yard.Ride is better,drop 3/4",rear anti-sway bar next.For all DIYers:ON THE REARS,DROP SWAY BAR OUT OF WAY FIRST! My car is no longer just a "grocery getter"!

09-24-2002, 10:21 PM	#320
beboper TEAM Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Seattle, WA Posts: 111	Re: SVT spring swap i got mine on today too. not a noticable drop. she seems happy on these springs.

10-02-2002, 03:57 AM	#321
PointFocus Junior Member Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Bethpage, NY, USA Posts: 74	Re: SVT spring swap Just completed the SVT Spring and damper swap on my 2001 ZTS [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] Also installed the prothane rear sway bar bushings and endlinks. I replaced the Eibach Pro Kit because I was getting too much rubbing and having problems with the wonderful NYC area road conditions. I also spend time in Maine and anyone who drives on Maine's "improved" roads will know why I wanted a little more clearance. The ride actually seems firmer with the SVT setup than the Eibach but you don't feel every little bump and crack in the road [img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img] The car rides about 1/2 an inch higher than it did with the Pro Kit. Overall, I definately prefer the SVT setup to the Eibach [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] [size="1"][ 10-02-2002, 04:00 AM: Message edited by: PointFocus ][/size]

10-02-2002, 04:29 AM	#322
Gutted Hatch [FJ] Specialist Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: SoCal (Temecula) Posts: 7,064	Re: SVT spring swap just ordered the Front and rear SVT springs, and the Front SVT bumpstops. $98.44 shipped. Now all i need is someone who knows what they are doing to install, or help me install them...

10-05-2002, 12:35 AM	#323
Blackrat Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: central ,NY Posts: 88	Re: SVT spring swap SVT springs settled to 3/4-7/8 drop.tighter ride.Entered my first roadcoarse race last sunday,put on by SCCA and vette club.Came back with first place trophy!! [img]graemlins/thumbup.gif[/img] (it was novice class,but you gotta start somewhere) About 8 other cars in class cameros, saabs etc.. Old go-cart track, oval,s-turns,hills and hairpins. My best time- 1:36.5 Best vette time- 1:25.8 (pro- mod class) I beat on my rat on that tight coarse, she took it very well. top speed was only 50mph but alot of slam'n 1st and 2nd. Much fun!! [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

10-05-2002, 12:45 AM	#324
Blackrat Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: central ,NY Posts: 88	Re: SVT spring swap Failed to mention,after race they had a "fun run" thats when I learned the time keepers thought I was running a HONDA!!!!! [img]graemlins/thumbdown.gif[/img] Gotta get a large FOCUS decal I guess.

10-05-2002, 05:46 PM	#325
Jason Mandrup Rookie Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Sunland, CA Posts: 9	Re: SVT spring swap Hey everybody I got my springs and I was going to wait to put them on until I bought new shocks, but I want to put them on now. Does anyone have any pointers on putting the springs on. I know having a spring compressor helps, but does anyone else have any tricks of the trade.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode