I am currently installing a new new set of Ohlin DFV coilovers on my FD and I have some confusion about setting preload. The diagram from the assembly manual for the rear coilovers shows the length of the compressed spring to be 178mm. I had to add a LOT of preload on the spring in order to get the length of the compressed spring to match the diagram. I estimate it was at least 25mm of preload. The manual says the spring preload should only be about 2mm.

Should I go by the length of the loaded spring or just loosen the spring perch all the way and then add 2mm of preload?

 

And you are sure you have the longer 200mm spring on the front shocks and the shorter 180mm spring on the rear shocks...

 

This was exactly it. I didn't notice the different part numbers for the front and rear springs. Thank you!!!