I installed H&R 1.4" lowering springs the other day, along with a set of 4 used 15k mile 2013 R56S struts on my 75k mile 2011 R56S manual. Also installed were new upper mounts on all 4, fronts from Monroe, rears from MOOG, IIRC, and a set of lower rear adjustable arms from "Donald the Bonald". Despite the goofy name, they are quality looking units, with greased heim joints and rubber boots. Upon the initial test drive, I noticed quite a bit of vibration from the driveline, especially under hard acceleration. Immediately took it to the alignment shop, trusted guys that I have used for years, as I knew I would need an alignment. The rears would not get into toe and camber spec at the same time, so I need the other pair of adjustable arms for the rear. No biggie. Front came into alignment just fine. That nasty vibration under accel was still there, though. So, my question is......any of you second-gen guys have issues with driveline vibrations like this after lowering? If so, what was the solution? I am hoping that my CV joints are just worn out, or have "taken a set" after 75k hard miles. I have looked for heavy-duty or high-angle CV shafts for the second gen, and found nothing. I just ordered a new pair of CV shafts from RockAuto, hoping that the new shafts will help. Anyone have a similar experience? What was the solution?

Thanks in advance, and sorry if this sounded "rantish"!

Chris

 

This also happens with 1st gens and is usually from worn in axles that have "taken a set". For heavy duty/high performance axles check with RMW to see if they offer some for 2nd gens.

Jan/RMW is located in Orange County.

 

Bet the axles worn, if the boots are cracked or damaged i would just replace them anyway.

 

When/if possible, can you post a picture of how the car looks lowered? Thinking of doing this on our 2010, also. Have always enjoyed the H&R's on my other cars.

And, please keep us updated on the issue!

 

This is a common issue we see with the H&R springs so that is why we don't recommend them. So I'd go with different springs as the first thing.

 

I first had lowered my 2013 using NM spring and stock shocks. Height was lowered about 1.2" and I had no vibrations on accel.

Now I have Bilstein PSS10 coliovers lowered all the way down by 2.0". At this height I do experience vibration on accel.

Currently I have 35k miles.

 

I have H&R springs and I have a driveline vibration under WOT but it's been there since I went Stage 2. I pretty much always assumed it was the flywheel and have been banking money for the OS Giken clutch kit.

 

Regarding the rear alignment....

You adjust the camber with the adjustable control arm you purchased.
The toe is adjustable at the front mount of the trailing arm. No need to buy a second set of control arms.

 

In the rear there is this adjustment also.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ear-tires.html

 

I assume that you are using plastic hub centric rings on all your wheels...

 

Pic taken at about beltline level. Yes, he is dirty. I live on a dirt road, so.....it happens. Almost a full tank of gas. The springs took care of most of that hideous fender gap, but still has that rake that I am not fond of. The new CV shafts took care of 90% or more of my acceleration vibrations. Any other vibration issues I will blame on the fact that I don't have hub centric rings, just center caps that kinda center the wheels, and of course conical lug nuts and wheel stud holes.

 

1qwkmini, interesting on the rear toe adjustment. Apparently, my alignment guy missed the adjustment point on the front mount of the trailing arms. I think I may just buy the other 2 arms anyway, but will have him put it up and look for that adjustment. Thanks!