For those who asked, below are the shock settings I've used that seem pretty good when using H&R springs and Koni shocks. The rear settings in particular are more critical for a good ride. Since the rear is so light, too little damping results in very fast rebound and a ride that feels like it's all spring, and bouncy. However, I can tell you that tire wear was excellent with the first settings I used, and have no experience in that regard with where they're at now. Often times, too much rebound damping hurts compliance (the shock "packs") and can result in the tires tearing or cupping.

Initial settings on install

Front : one full turn in from full firm
Rear: one full turn in from full firm

Since the Konis go from full soft to full firm in two complete turns, those settings are in the middle. Duh! LOL

After first drive.

Front: one half turn in from full firm
Rear: left alone, hassle to change (one full turn in from full firm)

Front felt fine, rear felt too fast but I left it alone to see how things worked at the track, and tire wear. Car worked well in both cases.

Current settings (I like these alot !)

Front: one half turn in from full firm
Rear: one half turn in from full firm

So, in both cases, turned to full firm and backed off 1/2 turn. Wow! The rear feels excellent now for street use. Hopefully it will work well on the track, too. Too bad it's such a hassle to set the rears, as it would be nice to refine it further, but I have a lazy streak. :smile:

Hope this helps!

Phil

 

Wow, thats great info...good to see peopl sharing their settings.

Do you drive an MCS or an MCS? The only reason i ask is because of rear weight since the MCS has the battery back there its a little more balanced.

I currently have H&R's on my cooper and am debating getting koni's to go along with them...I have one question about settings...my rear seats have been removed so the weight back there is even less...should i look at finding a different setting in the rears? Is that enough weight to affect the settings?

Again, thanks a lot

 

Ooops, sorry Rally. Mine is a 2003 Mini S.

I dunno if removing the seats will make that much difference. My guess is no, unless you're picking fly poop out of the pepper.

I would have to think the H&R's over the stock shock would be pretty harsh and bouncy. I'd highly recommend going to the Konis and try those settings. I think you'll be very pleased.

Wheels and tires will have an affect here, too. I have 215/40 x 17s, and tend to run pressures on the high side. Even so, the suspension feels very compliant now, and nice. Kinda like my old '87 911, only stiffer.

 

Will this Koni Adj. tool work on rear shocks?

 

Looks like I wasn't able to upload the pics of the tool. It's on Ebay. Item number: 7917135977. If this tool works, simplifies the rear adj. No disassembly required. Not sure if there is clearance for the tool to work.