Time for spring replacement?

[JHZR2]

Hi,

My GF's 94 integra has 163k and runs great. However, I think that handling has degraded a bit, and lately there has been a creaking when we go over certain bumps, especially when going slow.

I have figured this is because of bad shock absorbers and sway bar bushings. I am thinking of getting bilstein shocks, as they last forever and Ive had great experiences with them.

But what about springs? SOmetimes Ive heard that they last the life of the car, but I have to imagine they degrade in performance as well.

Is it smart to replace springs when shocks are being done (the shocks attach to the springs on the front and rear)? or, if Im not really trying to improve performance handling or lower the car, is a new set of shocks enough?

Thanks for the advice.

JMH

 

[Kestas]

Springs should only be replaced when broken or sagging. I doubt they lose performance like a change in the spring rate. The creaking and groaning is probably in the suspension joints or rubber isolators.

I had to replace sagging springs on my 71 Cutlass 20 years ago. Find the ride height specifications for your car and see if the car meets these specifications. If not, your car may handle squirrely, and the springs should be replaced.

[ March 29, 2005, 10:16 AM: Message edited by: Kestas ]

 

[JohnBrowning]

If tey have some for your application go with Eibach! National SPring can make you what ever you want but you have to give them all the spec.'s you want. Bilstein also offers package deals for some applications that include new springs. Bilstein also has a line of coil over replacements for a lot of applications now as well that have adjustable dapming and recoil settings and the height is also adjustable with a spanner wrench!

 

[rpn453]

I've never changed springs. It's probably the standard wear parts: shocks and maybe bushings.