[I am Jack's VR6]

I've heard that it's a good idea to "break-in" coilovers.
Is there any truth to this?
How long should I have them on until I get my car aligned?
Also, are there any tricks to get them on? I'm doing this myself. I know to adjust the heigh before I put them on but I need to know if there are any other tricks or tips out there that will help things go smoothly.

 

[M this 1!]

Re: Break-in time for coilovers?? (I am Jack's VR6)

i drove mine for a day, hard and it still wasn't enough. i'd drive them hard for a few, just not many long miles to possibly hurt the tires. that way they'll be settled. set your desired height too. that took me a couple days as well. i found when the control arms were parallel to the ground the car turned in fast and didn't bounce. any lower and it bounces. then get the rears 1/4" lower than the fronts and you have the proper set up as far as handling goes. the install is very easy, just make sure you pay attention to the direction the 2 rubber bumpers go in the backs. do the backs at the same time too so the axle drops, 'cause you can't get the lower shock bolt out on the left 'cause it hits the exhaust. once the rear shocks are both bolted on the bottom, slowly lower the car back down on it's wheels and guide the uppers thru the hole. it's really easy and saves you alot of time. i painted marks on my lock rings and threads so i can raise and lower the car and still know how to get back to the aligned setting.

 

[I am Jack's VR6]

Re: Break-in time for coilovers?? (M this 1!)

Great! Thanks. Detail is excelent. I appreciate your help.

 

[92Jetta2L]

Re: Break-in time for coilovers?? (M this 1!)

Just a warning: I worked at a VW Performance shop for a while and installed quite a few suspension setups. If you drop the whole rear axle, be sure not to go too far! Doing so can stretch/rupture brake lines (this is common sense, not words of experience). I'ts just like doing front brakes. Don't let stuff hang just on the brake lines. Also, be sure to hit the coilover threads with anti seize, otherwise you may find yourself involuntarily locked into a setting... (This I've seen on a set someone else did. Stupid Minnesota winters with salt on the roads....)
John
Carousel Audi Tech

 

[I am Jack's VR6]

Re: Break-in time for coilovers?? (92Jetta2L)

i'll keep that in mind. thanks.