Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Suspension eibachs and stock tires

Since I just got new tires put on my car I dont want to get new tires but I want to lower my car because I hate the wheel gap. Would I be able to fit the stock 99 se 8 spoke rims and tires on without rubbing the wheel well? Also did anyone install their own springs and how hard and long did it take?

thanks--chris

I have eibachs with stock svt wheels with no rubbing. If you have never done a spring install, most would not suggest doing it yourself.

I want to figure out how to do it and I am good with cars so I figure I have to start sometime, anyone know how long it takes and have any hints?

thanks again---chris

I have Eibachs in the rear of my SE. 205/60/15 tires with no rubbing. I have yet to do the fronts so I haven't any idea on time or difficulties there, but I have done the backs. It took me about 3-4hrs to do the first side. This was with a trip to Sears for an 18" breaker bar (the pinch bolts were a b1tch!). The second side, once I knew what I was doing, took only about 45min. The HOWTO can give a big help on doing the job. One thing that is not mentioned in it that is in the Haynes manual is to lower the weight onto the suspension before tightening up the suspension bolts on the rear. You should tighten the pinch bolt, but just hand tighten the rest until the weight of the car is on the suspension. This is a 2 person job! So buy some beer and invite a buddy to help.

Prior to replacing my OEM SVT wheels with the TSW Blades (1/2" wider), I also installed a set of Eibach springs & Koni struts.
At first I experienced no rubbing problems with the 215/50-16 BFG tires.
However, with two of my work mates in the back seat & one in the front (in addition to the driver, me, of course) the rear tires rubbed going over certain sections of pavement. For clarification purposes, this occurred after the wheel swap.

Installation for all four springs/struts was approximately $300 & I considered it money well spent to have a professional perform it.

I would caution that beer & compressed springs are a potentially "explosive" combination...

The beer is actually just to get your friend there to help you. He dosn't have to do to much, so it shouldn't be a problem. Just make sure your buddy, that is drinking all the beer, doesn't operate the spring compresor and everything should be ok.