staff@slashgear.com (Joe Capraro)
2024-04-14 17:15:11
www.slashgear.com
A coilover has a shock absorber topped with a coil spring, collar, and bump stop, and combines the functions of a leaf spring and shocks. Most cars come from the factory with separate shocks and coil springs, but it’s usually easier to replace these components with a single coilover unit when they become worn.
Many aftermarket coilovers are easily adjustable for ride height and dampening level, whereas leaf springs need to be changed completely to lift or lower a vehicle, or alter the spring rate. Leaf springs are simpler in design and don’t require geometric adjustments when they’re changed unless you’re making a drastic adjustment in ride height.
If you’ve read our primer on the difference between shocks and struts, you might now be wondering if a strut and coilover are the same thing. Both devices combine a coil spring and shock absorber, but coilovers allow you to choose a higher, lower, stiffer, or softer ride than original equipment struts. Coilovers and struts also perform the leaf spring’s job of supporting the vehicle’s weight.
Installing coilovers can change the geometry of your car’s suspension and usually requires an alignment be done afterwards, particularly if height adjustments are made. Leaf spring and shock upgrades or swaps should only change the distance between the axles and frame, and shouldn’t require an alignment if done properly.