Lowering on std G40 shocks

[dubstar]

Hi Chaps,

BACKGROUND: I'm building a Mk1 on Mk3 G40 running gear.

I want a compliant ride for everyday use but a bit stiffer than the old Mk1 suspension. I want to drop it too. Was planning on using new G40 shock absorbers (well, re-manufactured good quality equivalents - Monroe or such) and dropping it 40mm all round using lowering springs. I will be running 14" rims so nothing lairy.

Am I going to bottom the std shocks out or will they be ok at that? - being that the G40 ran lower (to the tune of 15mm IIRC?) and with uprated bump & rebound characteristics from the standard Mk3 I was hoping to get away with it.

Coilovers are out of my price range (and I don't plan on track-daying it) and cheap lowering kits (shock+spring) just tend to be harsh as fock.

Anyone got any experience of lowering on standard shock absorbers? Am I going about this the right way?

Cheers guys,

Ross.

[Tav]

I wouldn't rate the standard shocks much.  If you want a nice alternative of lowering and an uprated shock look at the H&R Cup kit.  Most people buying it in 60/40 flavour but I believe they do 35mm drop as well.  Good quality ride with that kit.  There's always Bilstein B12 kit...bit more money but your getting Eibach springs and Bilstein dampers, so it should be win win.

[Andy]

Eibach lowering springs and stock G40 shocks I reckon will work nicely - circa 35mm drop. Having said that, the car I drove with a 60/40 H&R kit on was surprisingly good all round.

[PeteG40]

you'll have trouble finding any pattern g40 equivalent! only really bilstein at £100  a corner (in my experience) cl/gt yes! and they'll fit  but you might find too soft or too long for lowering springs

[hayesey]

as above, nearly everything that's described as a g40 shock is no different to what they sell for a non-g40 mk3.

Anyway, I think 40mm with standard shocks would be ok.  Depends on the spring rate really.  If the springs are very stiff then you'll need a stronger shock or it'll just be bouncy and horrible.

[gofasterpinch]

You could buy a Bilstein B6 damper set and use them with whatever springs, they have standard travel but are uprated internally.

although probably not a "budget" option.

[Fred]

Assuming the ones you get are inserts for the front and not the 6N or whatever they are in the pic this looks like a good buy even with postage.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/H-R-Cup-Kit-Sportfahrwerk-35-35mm-VW-Polo-G40-/270822535897