I am planning to get the Koni FSD dampers for my August build '02 Cooper that has the standard sports suspension (not plus). Should I stick with the same springs or go ahead and change the springs as well? If I change them should I get the stiffer SS+ springs instead? Are JCW springs an option? After reading numerous posts about adverse effects of lowering springs with the Koni shocks I want to stick with MINI springs. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

I believe the JCW springs lower the car, so that's probably out and I'm not even sure you could order just the JCW springs.

I'm running the FSD's with the SS+ stock springs and they seem really well matched. I'd bet you could find someone (or a local MINI tuner/shop) that has a set of SS+ springs you could get for cheap/free. That would be my recommendation.

If you're not going to race SCCA, you might also contemplate doing a 19mm rear sway if you haven't already. Once the rear struts are removed it's not that hard to do the rear sway.

 

I've got the FSDs on my MCS with stock SS+ springs too. Toyed with the idea of lowering springs, but decided to stay with the stock SS+ springs recommended by everyone inlcuding Koni! The improvements in ride and handling are huge over the stock shocks! If you want to further improve handling and reduce body roll without affecting the ride, go with a 18mm or 19mm sway bar. I've put in an H&R 18mm bar on the stiff setting. Awesome set-up, and I couldn't be happier!

If you must lower your car, then forget the FSDs and go with a more traditional coilover or aftermarket shock/spring set-up. You'll never get the magic carpet ride of the FSDs with either set-up tho'...!