I'm sure this has been covered before, but maybe not this specific question. I couldn't find anything either. I am looking to lower my stock 03 MCS but don't want to spend a ton. From what I've read, everyone likes the H&R lowering springs. I have BBS R90 205/45/17 Wheels and would like to know if anyone has any pictures and ideas on what spacers I may need to get to get the wheels not to tuck in so much. I'm looking to get them to be about flush with the fenders. I'm a newbie when it comes to lowering cars so any help is appreciated.

TIA

 

Do you know the offset of the BBS R90 wheels? I think 48mm but I am not sure.
I had H&R Springs with BBS RGR 17x7 et38 wheels and 215/40/17 tires.
With the 38 offset, I had a little rubbing on the rear wheel arch and I had to trim the plastic.
With a 205/45 your tire is slightly narrower (0.4") but taller (0.5") than my 215/40. I am only guessing but I would think you have about 10mm clearance in the rear for spacers but 10mm spacers are not available for the Mini due to the hubcentric ring.
I would suggest you install the tires and measure the outside rear clearance when the suspension is fully loaded (compressed) so determine the spacer size you can use.

 

ok thanks for the input. So install the springs and then measure for spacers later?

 

I just put H&R's on my MINI. 3rd set of springs in 3 months, and these are the best. Good ride and great drop. I just didn't make wise decision before

I bought them for $265 shipped here from WA, but the price was from a local shop. They just didn't have them in stock at the time. It's definitely the cheapest I found otherwise. My husband has suggested I get spacers, but I haven't started looked yet. I think you will be happy with H&R's

 

how much did they quote you to install?

 

My husband installed them. We do all our own work on our cars

 

Maybe someone will chime in that has the R90 wheels with H&R Springs and 205/45/17 tires to help you with the exact spacer size.

- A thing to remember about adding spacers is that you will also need longer lug bolts. Some vendors add the bolts as on option with the spacers.
- You will need to add very wide spacers in the front to get flush to the edge of the wheel arch.
- The rear is hard to get the tire flush to the edge without rubbing issues.
- You can use wider spacers in the front than the rear. Just need to make sure that tire installers know the spacers are different front and rear so they do not mix them up.