K9 JSB

New member and first post on Passion Ford

We pulled our Escort Cosworth out of storage after 20 years for a FULL and complete restoration. So theirs going to be lots of posts and dumb questions..

Along with the restoration we’re looking at upgrading several areas along the way. Aiming for 400hp, AP’s, Quaife diffs, lightweight flywheel etc etc


Coil-overs seem to be the first point of contention. Searching the internet it seems a common consensus is unless your Cossie is going on track (which it won’t be), there isn’t a good set of comfortable/All round coil overs available. I’m hearing Gaz coil overs are harsh and prone to shitting themselves, KW have the perfect “Street Comfort” range but non of their coil overs are available for older cars and regardless of what Ohlins does or doesn’t have available, they’re coilovers cost the EARTH.

SO…

Looking for you guys’es opinions, stock setup.. maybe with new springs? Is there a holy grail of street coil overs. What have you boys gone with? Any input greatly appreciated

jonfoc

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with coilovers as long as you spec them for your intended use

james kiely

iTrader: (5)

probably the the best bet at the minute is the blackart specced coilovers by mark shead at ma developments for a fast road car.specifically designed and engineered for a escos

looking forward to the resto

Rsmat

iTrader: (2)

Best way I've found is to have the car corner weighted then give those details to Gaz and have them do the valve rates and spring rates to suit

I did this with my Rs Turbo and the ride / comform is way better than Koni was yet goves me plenty of support in the bends .

jonfoc

I wouldn’t fit Gaz to my wheelbarrow but each to their own.

K9 JSB

Seemingly, a lot people with this opinion.

Is anyone aware of a good, off-the-self KW or Ohlins?

jonfoc

Both of those makes are very good. KW are good to deal with and can spec out your own requirements. Ohlins again have great reputation, Mick Gardner up in Barnsley will guide you through them. It all depends on what you want to use the car for. Ideally you want the dampers to be specific to your use. A fast road spec set up will be out of its element on track and a track spec will be horrific on road. You can get a large amount of adjustment in the unit and then change your spring rate when needed. But ideally you want a single spec set up to get the best out of it.

I used to work at Leda a few years ago. They have the capability of making you 4 way adjustable with remote canister etc but Roger the owner will talk you out of it and explain exactly why. I’ve had a few sets over the years and I will only use them when I can. All of their products are bespoke to the owner and vehicle.

james kiely

iTrader: (5)

leda are top notch

jonfoc

You know it makes sense young man. I hope you’re well my friend.

james kiely

iTrader: (5)

i loved the way my mk4 track car went with the ledas jon .


all good mate

Adam-M

Black art design are meant to be as good as Ohlins. I have Gaz golds on my cossie which i don’t rate and ohlins on my evo, Ohlins are superb.