Tein Lowering Springs For 240sx: Ride Quality Review

So, you're thinking about installing Tein lowering springs on your 240SX, and you're probably wondering about the ride quality. It's a common question, and a valid concern. After all, you want that aggressive stance and improved handling, but not at the expense of a teeth-rattling, bone-jarring ride. Let's break down what you can expect, potential issues, and how to get the best possible experience with Tein lowering springs on your S13 or S14.

Understanding the Trade-Offs: Low Looks vs. Ride Comfort

The first thing to understand is that lowering springs inherently involve a compromise. You're reducing the amount of suspension travel, which means the shocks have less room to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. This almost always results in a firmer ride than stock. However, not all lowering springs are created equal, and some do a better job of balancing performance and comfort than others. Tein, as a reputable brand, generally aims for a balance, but it's crucial to choose the right spring for your specific needs and driving style.

Tein Spring Options: Selecting the Right Choice for Your Needs

Tein offers several lines of lowering springs for the 240SX, each with different spring rates and lowering amounts. Some popular options include:

Tein S.Tech: These are typically designed for a mild drop and a slightly firmer ride. They're a good starting point if you're primarily concerned with aesthetics and only want a moderate increase in performance.
Tein H.Tech: These offer a similar drop to the S.Tech, but with a slightly more refined ride quality. They are often advertised as offering a more comfortable ride than other lowering springs.
Tein Flex Z or Street Basis Z Coilovers: These are complete coilover systems, allowing for adjustable ride height and dampening. While more expensive, they offer the most control over your ride quality and performance. Consider these if you really want to fine tune your suspension.

The spring rate (measured in lbs/in or kg/mm) is a key factor. A higher spring rate means a stiffer spring and a firmer ride. Lower spring rates will be more compliant and comfortable. Tein usually publishes the spring rates for their springs, so compare them to the stock spring rates to get an idea of the change you can expect. For example, if you're upgrading from worn-out, soft stock springs, even a slightly higher spring rate might feel like a significant improvement in handling, while not being overly harsh on the road.

Common Issues and Solutions with Lowering Springs on a 240SX

Even with high-quality springs like Tein, you might encounter some issues after installation. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Harsh Ride Quality:
The most frequent complaint is a ride that's too stiff for daily driving. Here's what to investigate:
- Shocks/Struts: Are your shocks/struts old and worn? Lowering springs put more stress on the dampers, so worn shocks will exacerbate the harshness. Solution: Replace your shocks/struts with new ones designed to work with lowering springs. Bilstein, KYB, and Koni are popular choices. Matching the shocks to the spring rate is crucial for optimal performance and ride quality.
- Bump Stops: Are you hitting the bump stops frequently? Lowering the car reduces the available suspension travel, making it easier to bottom out. Solution: Trim or replace your bump stops with shorter, aftermarket versions designed for lowered vehicles.
- Tire Pressure: Are you running too high of a tire pressure? Solution: Lower your tire pressure slightly (within the safe range specified on the tire sidewall) to help absorb bumps. Experiment to find what provides the best comfort without sacrificing handling.
- Springs Not Seated Correctly: Double-check that the springs are properly seated in the spring perches. An incorrectly seated spring can cause binding and a harsh ride. Solution: Reinstall the springs, ensuring they are properly aligned.
Bottoming Out:
Hitting the frame or suspension components on large bumps is a sign of bottoming out.
- Too Low of a Drop: If you've gone too low, you simply might not have enough suspension travel. Solution: Consider raising the ride height (if using coilovers) or switching to springs with a less aggressive drop.
- Weak Shocks: As mentioned earlier, weak shocks contribute to bottoming out. Solution: Upgrade your shocks to handle the increased spring rate.
- Damaged Suspension Components: Check for bent control arms or other damage. Solution: Replace damaged components.
Increased Road Noise:
A stiffer suspension can transmit more road noise into the cabin.
- Worn Bushings: Stiffer suspension highlights worn bushings. Solution: Replace old, cracked, or worn bushings with new polyurethane or rubber bushings. Polyurethane bushings will further stiffen the ride, so consider rubber for a more comfortable experience.
- Tire Choice: Some tires are noisier than others. Solution: Research tire reviews and choose tires known for their quiet ride.
Poor Handling or Instability:
Believe it or not, sometimes lowering springs can negatively affect handling if not installed or matched correctly
- Improper Alignment: Lowering the car changes the suspension geometry, requiring a proper wheel alignment. Solution: Get a professional wheel alignment after installing lowering springs. Pay attention to camber, caster, and toe.
- Mismatched Components: If the shocks and springs are not matched appropriately this can cause instability. Solution: Verify that you have all the appropriate components with the correct specs.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Installing lowering springs on a 240SX is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires some mechanical knowledge and the right tools. Here's a quick overview:

Tools Needed:

Jack and jack stands
Wheel chocks
Socket set (metric)
Wrench set (metric)
Spring compressors (crucial for safety!)
Torque wrench
Penetrating oil (for stubborn bolts)
Alignment tools (optional, but recommended)

Installation Steps (Simplified):

Loosen lug nuts on the wheels you'll be working on.
Raise the car and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the wheels.
Disconnect the brake lines, ABS sensors (if applicable), and sway bar end links from the strut assembly.
Carefully compress the spring using spring compressors. This is a critical safety step!
Remove the top strut mount nut.
Remove the strut assembly from the car.
Disassemble the strut assembly, removing the old spring and installing the new lowering spring.
Reassemble the strut assembly, ensuring the spring is properly seated and the top nut is torqued to the correct specification.
Reinstall the strut assembly into the car.
Reconnect the brake lines, ABS sensors, and sway bar end links.
Reinstall the wheels.
Lower the car and torque the lug nuts.
Repeat for the other corners of the car.
Get a professional wheel alignment.

Approximate Costs:

Tein Lowering Springs: $200 - $400 (depending on the model)
New Shocks/Struts: $300 - $800 (depending on the brand and model)
Bump Stops: $20 - $50
Wheel Alignment: $80 - $150
Professional Installation (if you choose not to DIY): $400 - $800 (depending on the shop)

Final Thoughts: Managing Expectations and Maximizing Ride Quality

Ultimately, the ride quality with Tein lowering springs on your 240SX is a matter of managing expectations and making informed choices. Don't expect it to ride like a luxury car; it will be firmer than stock. However, by choosing the right springs for your needs, pairing them with appropriate shocks/struts, and addressing any potential issues, you can achieve a balance of aggressive looks, improved handling, and a reasonably comfortable ride. Remember to do your research, ask questions, and consider your driving style before making a decision. And when in doubt, consult with a qualified mechanic who specializes in suspension work on 240SXs. They can provide valuable advice and ensure a proper installation.

Good luck, and enjoy the improved stance and handling of your 240SX!