NC MX-5 - complete suspension package?

[-Tom-]

Hello,

 

Now, I realise that the NC MX-5 has already received a fair amount of attention on here, so I apologise for yet another thread on the car!

 

What I am after is a complete suspension package for the NC - that is, I am after a fully adjustable solution that incorporates dampers, springs & ARBs. I realise that all these parts are currently available for the NC - MazdaSpeed, H&R, etc. - but my problem with them is that they are all USA market derived packages, and that they may not necessarily suit our needs over here in Blighty; would this, in your opinion, be a reasonable assumption? It is based on previous experience with American tuned 'sports cars' - which usually means 'harder is better' in suspension terms.

 

It has occurred to me that perhaps the Lotus adage would be one to follow? That is, softer springs, harder dampers, minimal ARB? Obviously that is all relative - but is that relationship of components something that would be recognised here? Or am I barking up the wrong tree?!

 

I currently have the Eibach springs on my car (2.0 Sport), with geometry set by your good self (Tony) - I believe I was the second NC you ever did, way back in 2005... Now, the car handles well enough, but it is very apparent to me that with the Eibach springs, the Bilstein dampers struggle at the more extreme ends of the spectrum. Also, the body roll with standard ARBs is still on the high side, and really needs reducing.

 

So, the question is this: Is there a current suspension package that you would suggest, or is a complete package something you would look at sourcing? My requirements are mainly road use, but with the ability to set up for occasional track use as well - which I know will always result in a somewhat of a compromise.

 

Thanks

[Tony]

Hello Tom

The best set-up currently available would be the H&S coilovers and the I. L motorsport ARB's, prefereably with adjustable drop links.

 

Our current developments cover the MK1-2-2.5 and prestressed lowering coils for the MK3....... Out of curiosity where do you feel the Billie's let you down?

[-Tom-]

Out of curiosity where do you feel the Billie's let you down?

 

Rebound seems lacking.

 

An example would be on a rapidly undulating road - low amplitude 'humps' in rapid succession if you will. The initial compression cycle is handled well enough as you enter the first 'hump' only for the rebound to happen very rapidly on the crest - this then has the impact of making the compression at the next dip exaggerated - sometimes enough for bump-stop action - which in turn has an adverse impact on the next rebound cycle.

 

This is of course an extreme example, but I think helps explain what I mean.

 

The effect is noticeable in any situation where rebound damping is required - so any form of crest is a real killer. It has the effect of unsettling the car, which whilst annoying on straights, can be a little tricky if there is a cresting bend or similar.

 

I'm not familiar with H&S...

 

Also, any thoughts on the chassis bracing available? I.L. Motorsports, MazdaSpeed etc.

[Janey]

Also, any thoughts on the chassis bracing available? I.L. Motorsports, MazdaSpeed etc.

 

Bracing makes a big difference on handling & reduces the 'flex' that 5's are famous for but all depends on how far you want to go, - normally rear & front under chassis & a front strut brace is adequate - rear strut braces are hard to get hold of and cut down a lot on boot space. The iL M/sports stuff is generally good you can buy direct or 5 parts carry a lot of it.

 

If you fancy going the whole way this 5 peice brace set http://www.mx5parts.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/1244 is available from 5 parts or direct from iL (may save depending on £ to Euro rates) http://www.ilmotorsport.de/shop/article_li...b834e21e4f1a8af

[-Tom-]

Bracing makes a big difference on handling & reduces the 'flex' that 5's are famous for but all depends on how far you want to go, - normally rear & front under chassis & a front strut brace is adequate - rear strut braces are hard to get hold of and cut down a lot on boot space. The iL M/sports stuff is generally good you can buy direct or 5 parts carry a lot of it.

 

Thanks for the info. Janey.

 

I have had the pleasure of driving all the MX-5s (NA, NB, NB-FL & NC) and have been very impressed with how stiff & taught the chassis is on the NC compared to the earlier models. However, I saw a review post on MX-5 Parts from a chap who has the NC bracing from I.L. Motorsports (he - Adam - just so happens to be over on the MX-5.com forum, and we have chatted in the past about many aspects of the NC, just never chassis bracing..!) explaining the effect the bracing gives on the NC. Adam also mentioned that the rear brace does not take up very much space in the boot, which is a bonus.

 

- Tom.

[Tony]

Sorry "H&R"..... And it reads like that's the way to go. As for the bracing i would be guided by price, their much the same unless one make is adjustable.

[TarkMalbot]

Hello Tom

The best set-up currently available would be the H&R coilovers and the I.L Motorsport ARB's, prefereably with adjustable drop links.

 

I thought you said it would be better to get Adjustable ARB's? IL Motorsports are not adjustable and 35% stiffer than standard but 45% Lighter. Are these a good option if you also use adjustable drop links? The IL Sway Bars are a good price too and the cheapest I have found for the NC

[Tony]

Hello Tom

The best set-up currently available would be the H&R coilovers and the I.L Motorsport ARB's, prefereably with adjustable drop links.

 

I thought you said it would be better to get Adjustable ARB's? IL Motorsports are not adjustable and 35% stiffer than standard but 45% Lighter. Are these a good option if you also use adjustable drop links? The IL Sway Bars are a good price too and the cheapest I have found for the NC

 

In truth i want you to buy adjustable everything..... Calibrating the results is my arena not where to buy or who's best, normally this research is down to the owner.

 

Sorry if this reads contradictionary but i cannot be the centre of all aftermarket purchasing solutions.

[TarkMalbot]

I understand you don't want to be centre of all purchasing solutions but without ever having had aftermarket ARB's and not having all of them to try I value your comments and ideas as someone I regard as a specialist in the area.

 

I don't mind spending the extra money getting a better product but if a cheaper one will offer me the same or better results and save weight at the same time then I am all for the IL Motorsports Aluminium ARB's.

 

Once the car is set up I wont be changing the ARB settings again but I don't know where to start. If I get the right setup with a fixed set then that will do me.

[Tony]

The ARB'S play no part in the Geo calibration..... If you buy adjustable bars or links then the roll properties can be fine tuned to compliment handling.