Another suspension question - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

thstone · 12-19-2014, 07:03 AM

The springs are the least expensive component in your suspension refresh project, so getting them free doesn't move the needle much in terms of saving cost.

Since you are replacing the struts/shocks anyway and there is no cost difference between re-using your stock springs or the free S springs; what you're really asking is whether upgrading the sway bars (M030) really makes much of a difference?

M030 owners - Do the sways make a difference and are they worth the extra $400 over new struts/shocks only?

BYprodriver · 12-19-2014, 09:07 AM

Springs rarely degrade unless subjected to serious corrision. I forget what the difference is between "S" & standard springs but I would verify before installing. Sounds like you are a prospect for whichever Bilsteins come with a lifetime warranty. Put the rest of your money into replaceing suspension parts that are easily accessable while the struts are off. With your mileage they all have worn to some degree & will need replacement soon.

woodsman · 12-19-2014, 10:10 AM

I'd suggest you stay with a 'package', either 'S' or ROW M030. Porsche did a lot of testing in order to develop the suspension packages. You are in the 'comfort' set now and a 030 is the other extreme with 'S' in between. Do you want Porsche's best handling package (stiffest)?
When I replaced mine I found significant wear on the FR bar caused by the super duper tuff bushings. Mileage was about 80 K. I would encourage you to replace the strut top bearings as well as this is what allows the strut to rotate and they're under full load at all times ($30each).

woodsman · 12-19-2014, 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BYprodriver

Springs rarely degrade unless subjected to serious corrision.

I DISAGREE. Look at all of the cars that 'settle' as they age. The ride height drops because the spring rate is decreasing. Ever lowered a car expecting a certain decrease in ride height and it didn't happen? Tired springs.

jrcui · 12-19-2014, 11:47 AM

Mahalo! (thank you). I think I'm leaning towards the m030 kit. Anyone interested in S springs?

BYprodriver · 12-19-2014, 01:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by woodsman

I DISAGREE. Look at all of the cars that 'settle' as they age. The ride height drops because the spring rate is decreasing. Ever lowered a car expecting a certain decrease in ride height and it didn't happen? Tired springs.

Performance cars I have experienced, that are reasonably maintained & not grossly overloaded, settle less than a inch in 10 years. Leaf springs are a different story.