Suspension tips please... (FD)
 

So, at 121k, the FD needs a suspension makeover. All components are stock with the exception of the bigger solid front sway mounts and mazdatrix front sway bar. I am not looking for a harsh ride as I will only be driving this car to enjoy it, not race it. I have heard that the stock touring struts with an eibach spring is a good combination, but I thought I would get other opinions. Also, I will be doing the pillowballs as well. Any input is appreciated. Not much response action in the suspension section.

Trev

this will prob be moved to the suspension thread

Do a search, there are heaps and heaps of threads on different setups. I read a few dozen before I went out and bought my suspensions.

Search "spring rates". The stock FD suspension is considered stiff, so consider spring rates in a percentage increase. The stock shocks are ok. I would recommend adjustable shocks(koni's or tokico's are reputable and readily available iirc) in combination with R1 springs if theyre available new. Otherwise eibach's are on the soft side of the aftermarket; although, I can not comment on the amount of drop. I had GAB super R struts(no longer produced and impossible to find) and tein springs, and ;honestly, though the combination was extremely trackable it was not much fun on poorly maintained highways, zero fun in fact. But the teins are on the stiff side of the aftermarket and the drop is just short of suicidal. This thread will probably get moved so check out the suspension section. That is where the information you need is in any case.

Barban

Pillowballs and seals. Check the bushings, particularly the ones on the trailing arm and toe link if you're not sure.

If you want to do shocks/springs, go ahead but for a street driven car I think it's mostly optional.

Here's my suggestions:

1. New Pillowballs
2. Tokico adjustable shocks
3. RSR Down Springs: https://www.rx7club.com/suspension-wheels-tires-brakes-20/pics-fd-rs%2Ar-downsprings-610594/

Considering your mileage and overall desires, my recommendations are:

Definitely do bushings. They make a huge difference in the overall feel and accuracy of steering inputs and decreased noise. Use stock or the Super Pro bushings.

With 121k miles, I'm sure your shocks are a bit worn (mine were) and not responding as quickly as they should. I would recommend the Koni adjustable shocks. One of the great things about the Koni shocks (besides their excellent performance and reliability) is that they have height adjustable spring perches so you can continue to use the comfortable stock springs which offer good performance and still lower the car a bit so it looks cool.

The stock shocks with Eibachs or H&Rs are great when the stock shocks are in good shape. With as much mileage as you have, I'm sure you would benefit from a newer shock.

I'd forego konis in favor of bilsteins. I don't see how eibach springs are going to be soft though, since you can get them in almost any spring rate ever.