How To Measure & Cut Rear Springs - 2005 Convertible?

Barrybobvt

Member
Sep 19, 2012
19
2
13
I am going to cut my springs on my 2005 convertible to lower the rear by 1". Folks who have done this say to remove one full coil.

Understanding some don't support cutting springs, I have two questions:

1) Exactly how do I measure one full coil? Just cut the underneath where the end is?

2) How do I make sure the newly cut end sits right, and not at an angle? Some have suggested turning the spring upside down because this put the newly cut end in a more stable position.

Thanks,

BB
 
  • Sponsors (?)


I'm assuming you've already considered buying lowering springs and ruled that out for whatever reason. I'll add my recommendation to those above, but if you want to go forward with cutting your springs, it is pretty straight forward.

I don't know the exact details of an S197 spring, but generally, the top of the spring will have a flat surface, and the bottom will have a regular coil end. That end should sit in a pocket on your LCA. You simply cut the coil and put the new end in the pocket.

I would be cautious cutting a full coil. Again, I'm not familiar with the S197 suspension, but on the first gen cars, a full coil was a HUGE change. You might want to cut a half-coil, then install, check ride height and comfort, then if still not to your liking, take another half coil. If you do a full coil, then find out you took to much, you'll be right back to buying new springs.
 
It depends...some folks need it, some don't. I'd plan on getting one just in case you are one of the folks who do need it.

FYI...the house brand of springs over on AM are like $130 for a complete set (4)...likely what you'll pay for used FRPP springs.
 
For the pain in the butt that it can be and for safety sake its something i wouldn't go cheap on. I've been on the highway and seen plenty of "modded" cars bouncing every which way or the lowered excessive bounce. Spring rates and tolerances are there for a reason. I would never sacrifice the quality and safety of my car just to make it look cool. At the difference between $60 and $130 ....Just wait and save.

BTW spring sets are designed to work together (Front & Rear) But maybe you you don't mind your women with mis-matched panties either.