See if there are any MINI clubs in your area, there is probably someone in a club that has put coilovers on before.

Also, make sure that the quote for install includes a 4 wheel alignment.

Mike

 

What is their reasoning behind that ludicrous price? Can't be hours unless theyre outright lying.

 

They really didn't give me a reason. I just chuckled. I really have no idea what I'm going to do now. I looked on Craigslist and it was rather scary. I wouldn't trust my car with any of them. I guess I'm leaning toward the dealer installed JCW suspension or taking parts to them to install.

 

I did springs (NMa) and shocks (yellow) with rear sway bar (19mm HK) at the local club's diy day recently. The tech directed me and did the springs for me. It took less than 4 hours. The discount price on the alignment at the dealer was $150.

 

I assume that you don't have the tools or confidence to do this work, here are some things that can make it cheaper to have it installed:

If you buy camber plates, ask Way (or whatever vendor) to fully assemble your front coil overs. This will make it very simple and quick (therefore cheap) to swap out the shock assemblies. By having the front shocks together, you probably save 1 hour of shop time.

Make sure that the rear coil overs are also assembled.

If you let your vendor know your desires for ride height, they can adjust the springs to about the right height. Same for the damping adjustments, if the shocks are adjustable.

Having everything done at once makes a bunch of sense. You will still need an alignment.

All of this work is basic mechanic work with only hand tools required (except for the alignment). I understand if you are nervous to undertake this, but it should be less than a days work, even for a novice. Buying a Bentley manual from Amazon gives detailed descriptions on how to do this. Having the shocks assembled reduces the safety concerns and requirements for specialized tools. There are lots of threads on here that describe how to install these parts, if you want to try it yourself.

Mike

 

I still haven't pulled the trigger. Trying to decide between Megan's or ST's. which would improve comfort? Sometimes the stock suspension is pretty harsh. Or should I look at a different coilover?

Still cannot find a decent price for install in Alb. Cheapest thus far is the Stealership (I know WTF).

Thanks!

 

STs for comfort probably

 

Too bad youre not close to me. I'd only charge a 6 pack.

 

What factual basis did you come to that conclusion?

 

My guess wouldn't be factual...considering the word "probably." Sounds more subjective to me probably based on experience.

 

Well the the STs use the factory rubber bushing top hat and the Megans use steel spherical bearings. So that alone will make a significant difference in comfort.

 

Weasel - thanks man! I appreciate the gesture.

Creeve-since I'm suspension stupid so I assume you are saying the STs?