Just trying to get some info regarding upgrading the suspension on the zed. At the moment I just have the standard suspension, but was wondering what other people have done. I have 2 options; Option 1: I have a set of brand new eibach springs so just need a set of shocks (Not sure what's a good brand) option 2: get some coilovers. Just wouldn't mine some info to the pros/cons of both. And also what's good and what's not and also what else can or should be done while the suspension is getting change. The car will only be used for driving on roads (living in Tassie) so something that's good for cornering and comfy on bumpy roads. Thanks in advance.
Keep it simple (and inexpensive), use something basic like KYB shocks ....... or if you want something adjustable you could use Koni or AGX. All will give you improved roadholding AND a reasonable level of comfort, without busting the bank Most aftermarket coilovers (the oem suspension is already technically classed as coilover) will provide you with a very harsh ride and a dozen different adjustments you will never use (or need).
Agreed you will rarely ever adjust it once it's set. A set of shocks to go with the springs you already have will be a good set up from stock and best value for money.
While you're at it, you should replace all the rubber components associated with your suspension (you'd be crazy not to while you've got it all apart) ..... spring seats, isolators, dust boots, bump stops etc You'd be surprised how critical parts like spring seats and isolators are to the handling on your zed If you're going to do it, you may as well do it properly
If you have eibach springs, you possibly have the lowering ones.. ie 20mm lower. you'll find the front and rear camber settings are now out of spec, so you may need adjustable camber arms for front and rear.
I was happy enough with my KYB black shocks I put on my first zed. Good for the money. And agreed on the rubber bits. Mine were falling to bits and that was 12+ years ago, if yours are standard they will likely be a mess!
I swear we see this every year for the past 20. Anyways, there has always been a general consensus here that the Eibach Springs and AGX KYB Shocks are the way to go for a daily driven vehicle. The springs lower the car slightly and as they're progressive they ride well and hold the body sturdy through corners when loaded up. (spirited cornering). Setting the shocks to the mid to high dampening seems to be most peoples flavour also. Using TT sway bars also accompany the ride and handling characteristics of this combo. However the price of new sway bars the same size as the TT wouldn't be a negative. No fatigue from 25 years of service, etc. I personally have the AGX and Tein coils (form an old blown set of tein shock/spring combo) with high damping set and TT bar and the car is great. My biggest issue now is I need to replace more bushings as you can feel a slight wiggle in the car through corners. We have some of the shittiest roads in SA to travel over and the zed works well over it all. Enjoy your zedding
