Suspension Improvements

[B3rtie]

Dear All,

I have been searching for a number of items which could improve the cornering and body control of my '02 2.0L Avensis.

A number of parts are coming to end of life (two shocks have minor leaks for example) and I am looking to improve the overall handling of the car - something which I don't think Mr T managed to do very well on the Avensis - and I am considering fitting stiffer shock absorbers.

Has anyone had any experience with firmer shock absorbers with standard springs or otherwise on the Avensis 1?

Koni do a 'Special' adjustable range (where rebound is adjustable) and I understand Cobra also make gas replacement dampers. I don't want to go wild with modifications as the standard car is set up pretty well and I like the good ride quality which I wont spoil with lowering springs. The Koni Special range is set at OEM rate at its lowest setting with increases in rebound rate thereafter and have to be removed from the car to adjust (which is a pain)

How much increasse in rebound rate would still work OK with standard springs to start off with?

The other thing is that I noticed for example that Eibach produce an anti-roll bar kit for the Avensis 2 but not the Avensis 1. Does anyone know of a manufacturer making any more sporting-orientated components for the Avensis 1?

Thanks for looking

[Beagh1958]

You might be better of posting question on Glanza/Starlet forum. If anybody can point you in the right direction, they can? You may well have to compromise along the line as the Avensis 1 is no sports car. Maybe a set of Monroe shocks with rising rate springs ( same height as standard) tight in the corners & smooth on the straight a head. Another option, as you say new shocks are due, without all the flash brands a decent set of just good quality shocks all round will transform your cars handling.

[B3rtie]

Beagh1958, Thanks for the advice on this matter. I will try a post there as you mentioned.

The only real drawbacks with the car is control in tighter corners and roll through sweeping bends (it is a cruiser really but I drive cross-country more and more these days and not ready to swap cars yet).

The problem with the Avensis 1 is that is is not a 'with it' car and the type of people that buy them do not buy to modify (unlike other makes or sportier Toyota models etc) so the range of products out there is therefore limited.

I agree with you about the good quality after market shocks/spring combo which might be the way to go. Additionally, they will probably cost about the same as those from Mr T.

Cheers

[Beagh1958]

Put your car details into "toyotadirectparts.co.uk" for S/Absorber prices.

Good Luck.