GRAND_LS 400
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Lexus is too.
Lexus is too.
Time to break all the rules.
- Thread starter BlackIceLSC
- Start date
BlackIceLSC
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Kale, I used stock Mark VIII upper shock mounts, but T-Bird rear shocks. Direct bolt in.
Ok, I read somewhere from another "coil conversion" member that they used a replacement shock for a T-Bird. The day before I did the swap, I ordered a set of shocks for a 92-97 T-Bird, non-adjustable suspension equipped, standard rear shocks. I figured, if they weren't a match, I could at least have something to go off. Well, out of the box, I cut the stay-strap, and let the shock fully extend. I lined it up next to my stock rear shock. they were a perfect match. The top shaft went through the stock upper shock mount perfectly. I mocked up the shock the exact way my stock rear shocks were mounted to the upper mounts to be sure it would work. It did.
The shock I used is a Monroe sensi-trac part number #5965 ST. the parts guy didnt think they would work on a Mark VIII since his fitment giude didnt show a Mark VIII even having a rear shock. Well, guess what??? We all know better. I didnt want to go with a super-duty shock like a Cobra, or a KYB, Koni, etc. Not yet at least. I figured, throw a set of "basics" in there. If they work, keep em and save money. If they dont, then go get a better shock. Well, they work flawlessly folks. I had to install the upper shock mounts on the car first, then place the base washer on the shock, slide it up into the car, and add the top washer and nut. The stock upper shock mounts are already bushing equipped. The stock rear shocks have no additional bushings. They are built into the upper mount. Done!
Here's a pic. I didnt want to keep you waiting anymore. It is pouring rain out, and the car is soaked, but the pic came out quite nicely.
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/rideheight.JPG
As you can see, the car has a nice "rake", yet sits a bit lower than stock. Nothing radical. We all know that coil springs will sseat" another 1/2 inch once they sit with some weight on them for a few hundred miles. I cant find my friggin tape measure, or I would measure this car from the bottom of the fender lip, to the bottom of the rim, for a true "number".
One glance at our "stock" 95(put back to stock due to the horrible ride around town, from sensor lowering).
For comparison, try this. I cant fit a fist between the fender lip and the top of the tire. The front fender's on a Mark VIII have a higher wheel arch in the front than the back. That explains a larger "gap" in the front of a Mark VIII.
To answer the question about "sagging with weight in trunk", I drove back with a trunk full of old suspension parts, and some tools, and the car didnt go down at all. These are "progressive rate" lowering springs by TRW. The more weight you add, or the harder the suspension is compressed, the stiffer they get, so they wont "drop down" with people in the trunk as much as a standard coil spring will.
Here is a stock R/F air strut next to a replacement coil-strut.
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/frontcoil.JPG
here is a coil strut installed, R/F(before removing all the air suspension parts)
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/coilinstalled.JPG
I support this decision 100%. I am thrilled beyond belief with the outcome and the smooth ride. It is way better than I assumed it would be. I definately prefer it to my stock air set up before I had any sign of trouble. I wont try to convince any of you to convert, but I will definately recommend this set up to anyone who asks for my honest opinion.
Keep the questions coming. I am here to help.
Kale, I used stock Mark VIII upper shock mounts, but T-Bird rear shocks. Direct bolt in.
Ok, I read somewhere from another "coil conversion" member that they used a replacement shock for a T-Bird. The day before I did the swap, I ordered a set of shocks for a 92-97 T-Bird, non-adjustable suspension equipped, standard rear shocks. I figured, if they weren't a match, I could at least have something to go off. Well, out of the box, I cut the stay-strap, and let the shock fully extend. I lined it up next to my stock rear shock. they were a perfect match. The top shaft went through the stock upper shock mount perfectly. I mocked up the shock the exact way my stock rear shocks were mounted to the upper mounts to be sure it would work. It did.
The shock I used is a Monroe sensi-trac part number #5965 ST. the parts guy didnt think they would work on a Mark VIII since his fitment giude didnt show a Mark VIII even having a rear shock. Well, guess what??? We all know better. I didnt want to go with a super-duty shock like a Cobra, or a KYB, Koni, etc. Not yet at least. I figured, throw a set of "basics" in there. If they work, keep em and save money. If they dont, then go get a better shock. Well, they work flawlessly folks. I had to install the upper shock mounts on the car first, then place the base washer on the shock, slide it up into the car, and add the top washer and nut. The stock upper shock mounts are already bushing equipped. The stock rear shocks have no additional bushings. They are built into the upper mount. Done!
Here's a pic. I didnt want to keep you waiting anymore. It is pouring rain out, and the car is soaked, but the pic came out quite nicely.
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/rideheight.JPG
As you can see, the car has a nice "rake", yet sits a bit lower than stock. Nothing radical. We all know that coil springs will sseat" another 1/2 inch once they sit with some weight on them for a few hundred miles. I cant find my friggin tape measure, or I would measure this car from the bottom of the fender lip, to the bottom of the rim, for a true "number".
One glance at our "stock" 95(put back to stock due to the horrible ride around town, from sensor lowering).
For comparison, try this. I cant fit a fist between the fender lip and the top of the tire. The front fender's on a Mark VIII have a higher wheel arch in the front than the back. That explains a larger "gap" in the front of a Mark VIII.
To answer the question about "sagging with weight in trunk", I drove back with a trunk full of old suspension parts, and some tools, and the car didnt go down at all. These are "progressive rate" lowering springs by TRW. The more weight you add, or the harder the suspension is compressed, the stiffer they get, so they wont "drop down" with people in the trunk as much as a standard coil spring will.
Here is a stock R/F air strut next to a replacement coil-strut.
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/frontcoil.JPG
here is a coil strut installed, R/F(before removing all the air suspension parts)
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/coilinstalled.JPG
I support this decision 100%. I am thrilled beyond belief with the outcome and the smooth ride. It is way better than I assumed it would be. I definately prefer it to my stock air set up before I had any sign of trouble. I wont try to convince any of you to convert, but I will definately recommend this set up to anyone who asks for my honest opinion.
Keep the questions coming. I am here to help.
[a BlackIceLSC-VP LODNCA
http://mark8.org/lodnca
94 Black/Black M8
95 Champagne/Saddle M8
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/lodcard2.JPG
see profile for mods[/a]
http://mark8.org/lodnca
94 Black/Black M8
95 Champagne/Saddle M8
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/lodcard2.JPG
see profile for mods[/a]
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Craig,
I myself have been guilty of flaming the spring conversions..
But..
Now, you've done it.
I have a moral dilemma here.
DO I FLAME my buddy craig?
Or..
Do I wait and see how he does at the track, compare his 60' times ET's etc...
Hmmm
Carry ON Craig, KEEP US POSTED.
Now get your butt to the track!
Craig,
I myself have been guilty of flaming the spring conversions..
But..
Now, you've done it.
I have a moral dilemma here.
DO I FLAME my buddy craig?
Or..
Do I wait and see how he does at the track, compare his 60' times ET's etc...
Hmmm
Carry ON Craig, KEEP US POSTED.
Now get your butt to the track!
RE: Time to break all the rules.
I have done the conversion also, i bought the complete 4 wheel set lowered I took pics of the process and taken several pics after, but my digi camera is messed up so I haven't been able to post, didn't you get some sort of by pass switch to get rid of the air ride message? anyway, unless I told you or you looked into my wheel wells you would never know, I loved the air ride too, but unless you are a gramps who only drive in nice weather and only 2000 miles a year they are not practical (Wear wise) or unless you got the $$$$ to replace em every few years. some people have good luck and some do not.
I have done the conversion also, i bought the complete 4 wheel set lowered I took pics of the process and taken several pics after, but my digi camera is messed up so I haven't been able to post, didn't you get some sort of by pass switch to get rid of the air ride message? anyway, unless I told you or you looked into my wheel wells you would never know, I loved the air ride too, but unless you are a gramps who only drive in nice weather and only 2000 miles a year they are not practical (Wear wise) or unless you got the $$$$ to replace em every few years. some people have good luck and some do not.
BlackIceLSC
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
I agree. The factory air ride, so they say, typically lasts 10 years, or 100k...on average. Well, I drive 30-32k a year, so whats that, a grand every 3 years, just to keep it 'stock"? Nah. I slapped the coils on, and I actually enjoy the ride even more. It responds better, handles bumps better, and corners like a "Sport Coupe". The "smooth" is even smoother, and the bumps are not near as noticeable.
I'll tell ya this much. The nay-sayers can flame all they want. But it sure seems to be ok to modify the rims, add 1200 watts of "custom" sound(and weight) to the car, bolt on after bolt on under the hood, and add loud exhaust, but heaven forbid you touch the "sacred air ride". pffffft.
Folks, its a car. Drive it, mod it, show it, paint it, race it, slam it, make it loud, make it proud, but most of all MAKE IT YOURS!!! I sure did. I wouldnt trade my coil springs for air ride if you PAID to have it installed. The peace of mind is one thing, but my new found ride quality is untouchable. I promise you all, take one ride in my car, and your keyboards will never flame again. I promise.
Tommy, as soon as mother nature decides to let us play again, I will post my 60 ft times/et.
Our next "weekend" event isnt until may 31!!! Mother nature took away all of our winter/spring races!!!
Wednesday night races start middle of March, but the track sucks in the spring at night. No traction, wind, damp launch...I dont expect ANY improvement on Wednesday nights...but you can bet your ass I will be there. Remember, new JMOD, new tires, new suspension...I sure hope that elusive 14 second slip will find its way into my hand now!!!
Take care you all. Thanks for letting me "vent"...no punn intended!
I agree. The factory air ride, so they say, typically lasts 10 years, or 100k...on average. Well, I drive 30-32k a year, so whats that, a grand every 3 years, just to keep it 'stock"? Nah. I slapped the coils on, and I actually enjoy the ride even more. It responds better, handles bumps better, and corners like a "Sport Coupe". The "smooth" is even smoother, and the bumps are not near as noticeable.
I'll tell ya this much. The nay-sayers can flame all they want. But it sure seems to be ok to modify the rims, add 1200 watts of "custom" sound(and weight) to the car, bolt on after bolt on under the hood, and add loud exhaust, but heaven forbid you touch the "sacred air ride". pffffft.
Folks, its a car. Drive it, mod it, show it, paint it, race it, slam it, make it loud, make it proud, but most of all MAKE IT YOURS!!! I sure did. I wouldnt trade my coil springs for air ride if you PAID to have it installed. The peace of mind is one thing, but my new found ride quality is untouchable. I promise you all, take one ride in my car, and your keyboards will never flame again. I promise.
Tommy, as soon as mother nature decides to let us play again, I will post my 60 ft times/et.
Our next "weekend" event isnt until may 31!!! Mother nature took away all of our winter/spring races!!!
Wednesday night races start middle of March, but the track sucks in the spring at night. No traction, wind, damp launch...I dont expect ANY improvement on Wednesday nights...but you can bet your ass I will be there. Remember, new JMOD, new tires, new suspension...I sure hope that elusive 14 second slip will find its way into my hand now!!!
Take care you all. Thanks for letting me "vent"...no punn intended!
[a BlackIceLSC-VP LODNCA
http://mark8.org/lodnca
94 Black/Black M8
95 Champagne/Saddle M8
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/lodcard2.JPG
see profile for mods[/a]
http://mark8.org/lodnca
94 Black/Black M8
95 Champagne/Saddle M8
http://www.markviii.org/~blackicelsc/lodcard2.JPG
see profile for mods[/a]
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Pfffft...VENT AWAY CRAIG! {hahah}
Glad to hear your enjoying the conversion, and like I said before.
I TRUST your words of wisdon.
Enjoy, and keep us posted.
BTW: At our first Car Club Bash we can in third as a club.
At our first Car Club WARS {different track} we came in SECOND!
Ill post a race results later on when I get my Monday all"caught up".
Pfffft...VENT AWAY CRAIG! {hahah}
Glad to hear your enjoying the conversion, and like I said before.
I TRUST your words of wisdon.
Enjoy, and keep us posted.
BTW: At our first Car Club Bash we can in third as a club.
At our first Car Club WARS {different track} we came in SECOND!
Ill post a race results later on when I get my Monday all"caught up".
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Well Craig you definitely deserve a flaming for this.
Unsightly, unseemly, steerage class action on your part. This Lincoln was built with an air suspension. You putting SPRINGS on it? Ouch. I feel nauseous.
it reminds me of that one commercial on TV, where you see the dressed up old ladies and butler passing around some fine food, then all of sudden there is Jethro saying, can you pass the Ketchup please?
Well, ya gotta do what u gotta do. I mean people put fake convertible tops on these cars and, well, I guess you kindof join their class but hey, think of it this way, they are definitely a few more rungs lower on the ladder than you.
So yeah, I flamed you for the coil conversion. But then, you deserve it.
Well Craig you definitely deserve a flaming for this.
Unsightly, unseemly, steerage class action on your part. This Lincoln was built with an air suspension. You putting SPRINGS on it? Ouch. I feel nauseous.
it reminds me of that one commercial on TV, where you see the dressed up old ladies and butler passing around some fine food, then all of sudden there is Jethro saying, can you pass the Ketchup please?
Well, ya gotta do what u gotta do. I mean people put fake convertible tops on these cars and, well, I guess you kindof join their class but hey, think of it this way, they are definitely a few more rungs lower on the ladder than you.
So yeah, I flamed you for the coil conversion. But then, you deserve it.
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Unsightly?
How can the spring coils be unpleaseant to look at if they are TUCKED BEHIND THE WHEEL? Keyword, sight!
Unseemly?
To think that by adding the name Lincoln and some leather seats to a Ford constitutes it being placed in the "Luxury Class," that is unseemly. If you haven't looked, this car is just about ALL FORD!!!!!!!
These cars are luxury SPORT cars, more sport than anything else.
You might ask yourself, "How can he say that"?
I don't, the 4.6L DOHC under my hood says it!
Steerage?
Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease, I HIGHLY doubt you were the first owner of your Mark VIII. Yes, these cars WERE once 40k cars, but how many people on this board spent that much money? Not many! Most of us paid 10-15k for our Marks, including me! Now that is Steerage! Waiting for the price of a "luxuray car" to fall to a point where the average 18 year old can afford it, that is steerage! I bet top dollar thats how you got yor Mark.
Most of the members of LOD have done SOMETHING to alter their car performance for the better, which is arguable. Whether you agree with the mod or not, they have the right to do it and you have no place to tell them they are wrong. There are things that some members have done to their cars that I do not like, but I am never disgusted by it, "oh heavens sake."
______________________Mark of the Cobra______________________ http://dtw.truckmoxie.com/forums/images/badass.gif
David J
Unsightly?
How can the spring coils be unpleaseant to look at if they are TUCKED BEHIND THE WHEEL? Keyword, sight!
Unseemly?
To think that by adding the name Lincoln and some leather seats to a Ford constitutes it being placed in the "Luxury Class," that is unseemly. If you haven't looked, this car is just about ALL FORD!!!!!!!
These cars are luxury SPORT cars, more sport than anything else.
You might ask yourself, "How can he say that"?
I don't, the 4.6L DOHC under my hood says it!
Steerage?
Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease, I HIGHLY doubt you were the first owner of your Mark VIII. Yes, these cars WERE once 40k cars, but how many people on this board spent that much money? Not many! Most of us paid 10-15k for our Marks, including me! Now that is Steerage! Waiting for the price of a "luxuray car" to fall to a point where the average 18 year old can afford it, that is steerage! I bet top dollar thats how you got yor Mark.
Most of the members of LOD have done SOMETHING to alter their car performance for the better, which is arguable. Whether you agree with the mod or not, they have the right to do it and you have no place to tell them they are wrong. There are things that some members have done to their cars that I do not like, but I am never disgusted by it, "oh heavens sake."
______________________Mark of the Cobra______________________ http://dtw.truckmoxie.com/forums/images/badass.gif
David J
RE: Time to break all the rules.
You boys are getting all jumpy. Craig practically begged to be flamed in his original post. Nobody obliged him, so i did. In a good natured way.
its his car he can do with it whatever he wants to. but if i want to sniff at it then i'll sniff at it.:-(
It aint all bad for him. remember, the guys with the fake convertible tops are definitely a few rungs lower on that ladder.:7
You boys are getting all jumpy. Craig practically begged to be flamed in his original post. Nobody obliged him, so i did. In a good natured way.
its his car he can do with it whatever he wants to. but if i want to sniff at it then i'll sniff at it.:-(
It aint all bad for him. remember, the guys with the fake convertible tops are definitely a few rungs lower on that ladder.:7
RE: Time to break all the rules.
He did practically beg to be flamed, but most of us could tell that is not the kind of support he was looking for.
I know that it can be difficult to tell when someone is joking or being mean in posts. I usually throw in smilies everywhere so they know I am just kidding.
No hard feeling ok.
______________________Mark of the Cobra______________________ http://dtw.truckmoxie.com/forums/images/badass.gif
David J
He did practically beg to be flamed, but most of us could tell that is not the kind of support he was looking for.
I know that it can be difficult to tell when someone is joking or being mean in posts. I usually throw in smilies everywhere so they know I am just kidding.
No hard feeling ok.
______________________Mark of the Cobra______________________ http://dtw.truckmoxie.com/forums/images/badass.gif
David J
BlackIceLSC
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
I appreciate the words of support D Day.
Big Kevin, not many Mark VIII people beg to be flamed. Some yes, but not many. I assure you I wasnt asking to be flamed. But in your defense, I dont see your responses as a "flame" in any way. Until you spend the money, slap a set of coils in your Mark VIII, and drive it, your whole point is moot anyway. You need to play the game, before you bitch about the rules.
I dont care if anyone likes what I did or not. They dont drive my car, the way I drive it, on the roads I drive it. They dont pay for the maintenance, and they certainly dont support my home and family. So when I have to make a decision about what is right and what is wrong, it has to pertain to my level of income, and my need for a daily driver.
The first person to throw the $1325.78 at me to convert the car back to the air suspension, will get their way. Until then, I dont give a flying hockey puck what anyone thinks.
I drive 36k miles a year. I would rather throw my hard earned dollars at permanent "go fast" parts, better brakes, and routine maintenance, then an un-reliable computer controlled air suspension set up that is prone to have problems. The car drives about 95% the same with coils anyway.
Lets measure gains vs losses.
Gains:
I saved a ton of money, I dont have to worry about air suspension failure, the car's ride is smoother, and quieter. It handles big bumps like they were small, it corners a whole lot better, car sits lower than stock, without sacrificing any comfort, steering response is better, it launches harder, and most of all...peace of mind. If I should ever need replacement parts, there is a LIFETIME warranty.
Losses: self leveling ride control. Now my car is like 99.7% of the cars on the road.
You wont find me pushing the conversion to all of you. I have more respect than that. So for anyone to say I made a "bad decision" is just plane high on crack.
I would never tell anyone they should convert their car to a coil spring set up. That would be almost as "low on the ladder" as someone telling me I made a mistake.
The day you have to fork out a grand to replace your leaking, non-serviceable air struts(which by the way may hold air, but are probably shot as far as dampening/controlling through the gas charged strut assembly, which cannot be serviced without replacing the whole air bag eqipped strut assembly), you may then consider taking the road less travelled. And I assure you, I for one, will not "flame" you.
People dont seem to realize that, even though your air strut assembly still holds air, doenst mean it is in perfect condition. The car's handling was probably gone after 4 years, or 40k miles anyway. And since your hands are tied with non-serviceable struts, you have to live with the deteriorating ride quality, or make a decision. Either spend the money to keep it stock, or convert the car, and just be done with it.
The Lincoln Mark VIII's trademark "self lowering air suspension" was an engenious concept. Since the air bags suspend the vehicle's body, it can constantly moniter the ride height through computer sensors. Thats great! What a great concept. But what about the gas-charged strut? OH YEA...THOSE! When the strut assembly itself can no longer dampen and control the ride, you are left with pillows of air to keep you comfortable. What about the handling? Most never notice the gradual decrease in the over-all handling of the car. Alot of you say screw the handling. I want to make it sit lower. it will stiffen up, thus making you think it handles better. I assure you, your front end suspension components will begin to wear more rapidly due to the over-stressed parts that are forced to compensate for worn struts. Ball joints, sway bar bushings, control arm busings, etc....all of these parts are forced to work harder because there is no longer any life left in the gas-charged struts. Not to mention tires.
I dont have to worry about that. My springs will provide the ride height I desire, and my new struts will provide me with tens-of thousands of miles. The day my gas struts wear out, I can spend anywhere from $69 ea for a basic set, or $125 for fully adjustable, high-dollar units, based on my needs, or just return the entire kit for a brand new one(yes, the struts are lifetime warranty too).
Until there is a fully serviceable, and adjustable strut for the air suspension(C'mon Eddie Spinks...they need you!), you are stuck with what you get. An air-ride equipped luxury car that costs alot to maintain the suspension, and other than lowering it, you cant do much else.
I am not asking to be flamed. But if thats what your life consists of, personally knocking any individual who knows his priorities, and chooses to practice them on his own property, then you might want to consider what the reaction of that individual might be. In this case...I am driving my car, with an extra grand in my pocket, and I am happier with the ride of my car, knowing I made the right decision. If thats "flame" material...you need to get a life.
I just dont understand how people can modify the engine with various bolt ons, make the tranny shift hard enough to cause whip-lash, add $5000 in stereo equipement, spend a month's salary on 17" performance wheels and tires, and then "flame" someone for modifying the "all-mighty air suspension".
"hey kettle, your Black".
BTW, if anyone wants info on the conversion, and wants to remain annonymous, you can email me, or PM me. That way you wont have to worry about other members practicing their divine ignorance. I have made arrangements with the supplier to get you a significant discount on any parts you need. Just let me know.
Big kev...sorry to get on you about this, but the comment about being "nausious" was pretty out of whack. The day you drive a coil converted Mark VIII at 80+mph over some really bad roadwork, I assure you, wou too will be convinced.
I appreciate the words of support D Day.
Big Kevin, not many Mark VIII people beg to be flamed. Some yes, but not many. I assure you I wasnt asking to be flamed. But in your defense, I dont see your responses as a "flame" in any way. Until you spend the money, slap a set of coils in your Mark VIII, and drive it, your whole point is moot anyway. You need to play the game, before you bitch about the rules.
I dont care if anyone likes what I did or not. They dont drive my car, the way I drive it, on the roads I drive it. They dont pay for the maintenance, and they certainly dont support my home and family. So when I have to make a decision about what is right and what is wrong, it has to pertain to my level of income, and my need for a daily driver.
The first person to throw the $1325.78 at me to convert the car back to the air suspension, will get their way. Until then, I dont give a flying hockey puck what anyone thinks.
I drive 36k miles a year. I would rather throw my hard earned dollars at permanent "go fast" parts, better brakes, and routine maintenance, then an un-reliable computer controlled air suspension set up that is prone to have problems. The car drives about 95% the same with coils anyway.
Lets measure gains vs losses.
Gains:
I saved a ton of money, I dont have to worry about air suspension failure, the car's ride is smoother, and quieter. It handles big bumps like they were small, it corners a whole lot better, car sits lower than stock, without sacrificing any comfort, steering response is better, it launches harder, and most of all...peace of mind. If I should ever need replacement parts, there is a LIFETIME warranty.
Losses: self leveling ride control. Now my car is like 99.7% of the cars on the road.
You wont find me pushing the conversion to all of you. I have more respect than that. So for anyone to say I made a "bad decision" is just plane high on crack.
I would never tell anyone they should convert their car to a coil spring set up. That would be almost as "low on the ladder" as someone telling me I made a mistake.
The day you have to fork out a grand to replace your leaking, non-serviceable air struts(which by the way may hold air, but are probably shot as far as dampening/controlling through the gas charged strut assembly, which cannot be serviced without replacing the whole air bag eqipped strut assembly), you may then consider taking the road less travelled. And I assure you, I for one, will not "flame" you.
People dont seem to realize that, even though your air strut assembly still holds air, doenst mean it is in perfect condition. The car's handling was probably gone after 4 years, or 40k miles anyway. And since your hands are tied with non-serviceable struts, you have to live with the deteriorating ride quality, or make a decision. Either spend the money to keep it stock, or convert the car, and just be done with it.
The Lincoln Mark VIII's trademark "self lowering air suspension" was an engenious concept. Since the air bags suspend the vehicle's body, it can constantly moniter the ride height through computer sensors. Thats great! What a great concept. But what about the gas-charged strut? OH YEA...THOSE! When the strut assembly itself can no longer dampen and control the ride, you are left with pillows of air to keep you comfortable. What about the handling? Most never notice the gradual decrease in the over-all handling of the car. Alot of you say screw the handling. I want to make it sit lower. it will stiffen up, thus making you think it handles better. I assure you, your front end suspension components will begin to wear more rapidly due to the over-stressed parts that are forced to compensate for worn struts. Ball joints, sway bar bushings, control arm busings, etc....all of these parts are forced to work harder because there is no longer any life left in the gas-charged struts. Not to mention tires.
I dont have to worry about that. My springs will provide the ride height I desire, and my new struts will provide me with tens-of thousands of miles. The day my gas struts wear out, I can spend anywhere from $69 ea for a basic set, or $125 for fully adjustable, high-dollar units, based on my needs, or just return the entire kit for a brand new one(yes, the struts are lifetime warranty too).
Until there is a fully serviceable, and adjustable strut for the air suspension(C'mon Eddie Spinks...they need you!), you are stuck with what you get. An air-ride equipped luxury car that costs alot to maintain the suspension, and other than lowering it, you cant do much else.
I am not asking to be flamed. But if thats what your life consists of, personally knocking any individual who knows his priorities, and chooses to practice them on his own property, then you might want to consider what the reaction of that individual might be. In this case...I am driving my car, with an extra grand in my pocket, and I am happier with the ride of my car, knowing I made the right decision. If thats "flame" material...you need to get a life.
I just dont understand how people can modify the engine with various bolt ons, make the tranny shift hard enough to cause whip-lash, add $5000 in stereo equipement, spend a month's salary on 17" performance wheels and tires, and then "flame" someone for modifying the "all-mighty air suspension".
"hey kettle, your Black".
BTW, if anyone wants info on the conversion, and wants to remain annonymous, you can email me, or PM me. That way you wont have to worry about other members practicing their divine ignorance. I have made arrangements with the supplier to get you a significant discount on any parts you need. Just let me know.
Big kev...sorry to get on you about this, but the comment about being "nausious" was pretty out of whack. The day you drive a coil converted Mark VIII at 80+mph over some really bad roadwork, I assure you, wou too will be convinced.
[a BlackIceLSC-VP LODNCA
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94 Black/Black M8
95 Champagne/Saddle M8
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RE: Time to break all the rules.
Yo BlackIce....you guys are taking my flame WAY too seriously....I was chuckling the whole time I wrote it. Like I said earlier, it is your car, do with it what you want to.
I replaced my air suspension components for $500, the front struts and the rear shocks, sometime last year after I got the tranny rebuilt. Frankly I don't know that I felt a whole lot of difference with the new struts....I replaced them before they failed, just figured that with rebuilding the tranny I would have the car a few more years and it had 98K at the time.
I would like to ride in an 8 that has had this coil conversion done just so I could know what it feels like.
In the meantime, relax. My flame was tongue in cheek. My mistake was not using smiley faces....
Yo BlackIce....you guys are taking my flame WAY too seriously....I was chuckling the whole time I wrote it. Like I said earlier, it is your car, do with it what you want to.
I replaced my air suspension components for $500, the front struts and the rear shocks, sometime last year after I got the tranny rebuilt. Frankly I don't know that I felt a whole lot of difference with the new struts....I replaced them before they failed, just figured that with rebuilding the tranny I would have the car a few more years and it had 98K at the time.
I would like to ride in an 8 that has had this coil conversion done just so I could know what it feels like.
In the meantime, relax. My flame was tongue in cheek. My mistake was not using smiley faces....
BlackIceLSC
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Oh
My response was directed to anyone who decides that its ok to bash the guy who did something "different". I only made reference to you, because you started it!
I think you will find the ride surprisingly comparable to an air suspension set up. I think we are all going to find that when Arnott keeps screwing people, and Eddie(American Air) retires, there wont me many options left down the road, and the Mark VIII's will start to end up having no choice but to convert.
Thanks for clearing that up Big K.
I have to "Bounce"! (haha)
Oh
My response was directed to anyone who decides that its ok to bash the guy who did something "different". I only made reference to you, because you started it!
I think you will find the ride surprisingly comparable to an air suspension set up. I think we are all going to find that when Arnott keeps screwing people, and Eddie(American Air) retires, there wont me many options left down the road, and the Mark VIII's will start to end up having no choice but to convert.
Thanks for clearing that up Big K.
I have to "Bounce"! (haha)
[a BlackIceLSC-VP LODNCA
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94 Black/Black M8
95 Champagne/Saddle M8
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see profile for mods[/a]
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94 Black/Black M8
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RE: Time to break all the rules.
{inserts a few billion smiley faces)
*climbs out of my asbestos suit*
Hey Craig, what is the solution for having a girlfriend that can drive better than you can?
Since you are familiar with this problem as well, I thought I'd ask you first. *S*
Tiff keeps kickin my butt, and people are starting to "make fun of me".
*tounge in cheek grin*
Actually, I think HER beating me in the final round made me happier than if I would have won myself..{go figure}
*stops hijacking the thread*
{inserts a few billion smiley faces)
*climbs out of my asbestos suit*
Hey Craig, what is the solution for having a girlfriend that can drive better than you can?
Since you are familiar with this problem as well, I thought I'd ask you first. *S*
Tiff keeps kickin my butt, and people are starting to "make fun of me".
*tounge in cheek grin*
Actually, I think HER beating me in the final round made me happier than if I would have won myself..{go figure}
*stops hijacking the thread*
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Yo Craig....yeah i had read alot of not so nice comments about the arnott replacements so i just went with the fordpartsnetwork oem stuff.....i have a 94 model but got the 97-98 struts based on what I read on the boards.....they were $100 cheaper per piece than the 94 oem replacements.
Thanks for your comments about it too, I really am interested to hear how they compare with the air ride.
Yo Craig....yeah i had read alot of not so nice comments about the arnott replacements so i just went with the fordpartsnetwork oem stuff.....i have a 94 model but got the 97-98 struts based on what I read on the boards.....they were $100 cheaper per piece than the 94 oem replacements.
Thanks for your comments about it too, I really am interested to hear how they compare with the air ride.
BlackIceLSC
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Its real easy...talk her into selling her race car. The only catch is...you'll end up alone, hungry, horny, bored, no one to argue with, and no one to share good news with.
if thats what you want, then sell the silver ghost. Otherwise, bask in the glory of watching her win. Or, you can stop racing, and be her "crew". You have to do all the work, spend all your money on her race car, but when she takes the win light round after round, you lean over to the guy next to you(when she cant hear you) and tell him "I taught her everything she knows".
Tommy. Enjoy iy. You have something very rare. Most guys I know would pay to have their girlfriend be remotely interested in cars/racing. Yours is o into it, she makes you almost wish she wasnt, at times.
Keep supporting her. A happy woman makes a happier man.
And whoever told you my Girlfriend was a better racer than me? She told you, didnt she? yea...whatever she sais. I better agree, or it wont be a very calm house around here.
Can I have my thread back now? j/k
take it easy Tommy.
Its real easy...talk her into selling her race car. The only catch is...you'll end up alone, hungry, horny, bored, no one to argue with, and no one to share good news with.
if thats what you want, then sell the silver ghost. Otherwise, bask in the glory of watching her win. Or, you can stop racing, and be her "crew". You have to do all the work, spend all your money on her race car, but when she takes the win light round after round, you lean over to the guy next to you(when she cant hear you) and tell him "I taught her everything she knows".
Tommy. Enjoy iy. You have something very rare. Most guys I know would pay to have their girlfriend be remotely interested in cars/racing. Yours is o into it, she makes you almost wish she wasnt, at times.
Keep supporting her. A happy woman makes a happier man.
And whoever told you my Girlfriend was a better racer than me? She told you, didnt she? yea...whatever she sais. I better agree, or it wont be a very calm house around here.
Can I have my thread back now?
j/ktake it easy Tommy.
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BlackIceLSC
Registered
RE: Time to break all the rules.
Here...I'll make it easier for the "poll-ster".
here is a 'refresh' of an old thread to answer any "new" questions/concerns.
BTW, almost a year later, and 26k miles on the coils, and guess what? not even a mm difference in ride height.
So much for the "coil springs sag over time" theory boys and girls.
rear Monroe's still feel brand new, rear upper mounts look like I installed them yesterday, and so do the coils.
Here...I'll make it easier for the "poll-ster".
here is a 'refresh' of an old thread to answer any "new" questions/concerns.
BTW, almost a year later, and 26k miles on the coils, and guess what? not even a mm difference in ride height.
So much for the "coil springs sag over time" theory boys and girls.
rear Monroe's still feel brand new, rear upper mounts look like I installed them yesterday, and so do the coils.
[a
Club 16 President/Founder
94 Black/Black M8
97 Toreador red/Lt. graphite LSC M8
V.P. GGM8
Club 16 President/Founder
94 Black/Black M8
97 Toreador red/Lt. graphite LSC M8
V.P. GGM8