Suspension Review and Detailed Install: H&R Spring Install for Mini Countryman
#33
The ride is firmer but about as smooth as the stock non-sport suspension. I think with these springs, the stock shocks are fine to use, so long as they're low mileage (mine were 4k miles). I am happy with the ride and reduced body roll. The vehicle will still benifit greatly from a stiffer rear sway bar, but this can be done later.
The car is not bouncy, nor does it rebound absurdly over bumps. Coming from a 2008 GTI with H&R SuperSport Springs and Bilstein Sport shocks, this car rides similar, but a little less harsh. *Very* large dips at speed will throw you a bit whether you're in the front or rear, but it's par for the course for a lowered car.
After the drop, I think the biggest difference is the alignment I had done. It was a semi-spec alignment meant to balance comfort and spirited driving. No more does the car jerk over large bumps/potholes and it's less dart-y and a more relaxed drive, but still aggressive enough to have fun.
I am completely satisfied with the run-flat tires despite other reviews. I think the harder sidewall makes the car feel less mushy, but does harsh up the bumps, which I think bothers some people.
My assessment, H&R Sport Springs for the Mini Countryman deliver. They're a moderate drop (I would actually prefer a 2" drop to stance the car properly) and a firmer spring without compromising, but instead, improving, every-day drivability.
Note: Adjustable rear lower control arms will be required to get the alignment into spec.
The car is not bouncy, nor does it rebound absurdly over bumps. Coming from a 2008 GTI with H&R SuperSport Springs and Bilstein Sport shocks, this car rides similar, but a little less harsh. *Very* large dips at speed will throw you a bit whether you're in the front or rear, but it's par for the course for a lowered car.
After the drop, I think the biggest difference is the alignment I had done. It was a semi-spec alignment meant to balance comfort and spirited driving. No more does the car jerk over large bumps/potholes and it's less dart-y and a more relaxed drive, but still aggressive enough to have fun.
I am completely satisfied with the run-flat tires despite other reviews. I think the harder sidewall makes the car feel less mushy, but does harsh up the bumps, which I think bothers some people.
My assessment, H&R Sport Springs for the Mini Countryman deliver. They're a moderate drop (I would actually prefer a 2" drop to stance the car properly) and a firmer spring without compromising, but instead, improving, every-day drivability.
Note: Adjustable rear lower control arms will be required to get the alignment into spec.
The following users liked this post:
Tussen (02-03-2023)
#34
Thanx
Now this is what forums are all about! It is soo refreshing to have someone state there opinion along with giving insite as to how a product works so that others can make an informed choice on whether or not to use a product. Thank you very much for this thread and your responses to my questions. Im sure I can speak for all here on NAM when I say it is appreciated!
The following users liked this post:
Tussen (02-03-2023)
#35
Without doing the spring and arm install myself, the install charge would be (from different quotes I got) around $500-$550 with a stock alignment (not including the arms, since when I called, I didn't do arms yet).
The install can be done at home with hand tools, especially the arms. They were simple bolt off, bolt on. The springs required some special tools, and knowhow, to get everything off, but there are several tutorials, including my partial tutorial to help you. I do however, understand that the springs might be more than some people could tackle or have time for.
Since I did the install of all my parts at home, my total labor was around $90 and a six pack of beer for my friend who assisted.
#36
Now this is what forums are all about! It is soo refreshing to have someone state there opinion along with giving insite as to how a product works so that others can make an informed choice on whether or not to use a product. Thank you very much for this thread and your responses to my questions. Im sure I can speak for all here on NAM when I say it is appreciated!
That said, I hope it helps people as they begin to "you-ify" their Mini Countryman.
#38
#39
Be sure the strut bolt is all the way out.
Try a socket wrench 1/4" to 3/8" adapter in the slot. Turn it 45 degrees to act as a strut spreader. Without the strut spreader you may not be able to get the strut out.
I used a brass drift and a #3 mini sledge to get mine to budge after inserting the strut spreader.
If you have a wedge try inserting it different ways. Look at the strut from the back (make sure the car is supported). The shape of that tab might not permit you to insert a big wedge. You might try a punch in a thick diameter also, inserted from the bottom going up.
Call autozone/pepboys/advance to see if they have a strut spreader. Long shot but maybe tgey will.
Try a socket wrench 1/4" to 3/8" adapter in the slot. Turn it 45 degrees to act as a strut spreader. Without the strut spreader you may not be able to get the strut out.
I used a brass drift and a #3 mini sledge to get mine to budge after inserting the strut spreader.
If you have a wedge try inserting it different ways. Look at the strut from the back (make sure the car is supported). The shape of that tab might not permit you to insert a big wedge. You might try a punch in a thick diameter also, inserted from the bottom going up.
Call autozone/pepboys/advance to see if they have a strut spreader. Long shot but maybe tgey will.
#40
#43
#45
for the strut spreader bit you got, was it sufficient and easy to spread the knuckles? I am wondering if I should go with the beefier spreader tool that looks like a "M-shaped" tool.
Kevin
#46
So I understand that the ride is firmer with the new springs but is it less harsh. I installed NM springs and koni sports on my 09 MCS and it firmed up the ride some but made it ride SO MUCH BETTER because the harshness at bumps and bridge seams was gone. Made the care feel more substantial. Is that the case with the H&Rs? I don't want a firmer ride that is still just as rough and harsh on the beat up roads around here.
#47
So I understand that the ride is firmer with the new springs but is it less harsh. I installed NM springs and koni sports on my 09 MCS and it firmed up the ride some but made it ride SO MUCH BETTER because the harshness at bumps and bridge seams was gone. Made the care feel more substantial. Is that the case with the H&Rs? I don't want a firmer ride that is still just as rough and harsh on the beat up roads around here.
#48
"So I understand that the ride is firmer with the new springs but is it less harsh. I installed NM springs and koni sports on my 09 MCS and it firmed up the ride some but made it ride SO MUCH BETTER because the harshness at bumps and bridge seams was gone. Made the care feel more substantial. Is that the case with the H&Rs? I don't want a firmer ride that is still just as rough and harsh on the beat up roads around here."
Anyone have a comment on this?
Anyone have a comment on this?
#49
#50
Ride comfort go with NM.. just make sure you get control arms