Well, don't get used to me being nicer, I'm sure it's just a passing phase I'm going through
Well, the assumption is there because it's all but impossible to find a higher or lower-rate aftermarket springs that
don't lower the car. That's why I really like aftermarket adjustable coil-overs that use standard springs coil-over springs -- the springs are cheap, usually fairly easy to replace, and you don't need a spring compressor (since you can just lower the spring seat until the spring is loose). And there's nothing wrong with lowering a car, provided it's done correctly and still allows the suspension to do it's job.
And I agree, knowledge
is power -- but verify your sources
Don't just stop at the one suspension book, read several from different authors. You'll usually find conflicting theories as to what works between authors, and alot of it will make sense. Usually, there are two schools of thought when it comes to suspension:
- Stiffer springs, softer anti-sway bars.
- Softer springs, stiffer anti-sway bars.
Can't tell you which one is right for you, since needs vary. I have ran it both ways on my Formula, and personally, I like stiffer springs with
slightly stiffer anti-sway bars (then again, the Formula is a big, heavy car and needs both to make it handle better, IMO).
Dave -- I'm not sure if the stock springs on the MINI are progressive or not. I haven't even bothered to look at anything on the suspension since this is my daily driver (and am trying to resist the urge to modify it at all, since I have the "other" car). I do think the MINI could use some upgrades though, as I think it has too much body roll going into hard corners.