Want to lower..i'm a noob

[piranha0522]

Hey all, I want to lower my Yaris a bit this summer, and yes i'm a noob. I have never lowered a vehicle before.

Are lowering springs all I need to lower my Yaris? I thought it would be more complicated than that. I dont have to change my shocks or anything?
Are they easy to install on my own?

I also think im going to get some rims. I dont want there to be too big of a gap between body and rubber, or rubbing. Is 15" or 16" recommended?

Thanks a lot!

[KCALB SIRAY]

This should help you. Yes, it is THAT simple, not hard at all. Wheels are a preference and so are changing the stock shocks. I've been running stock shocks with lowered suspension for two years and no problems in handling or ride. Also, remember that the larger the wheel, the more height you are putting between the ground and lowered car. Of course, lower profile tires would help.

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15135&highlight=installing+lowering+springs

[SeriousBlack]

Piranha - you really have to ask yourself why you want to lower the car before deciding which set up to go with. Generally, lowering springs are all you need.

There are some great threads on this site with the ratings for various brands. Personally, I think the H&R sport springs for the Yaris give a nice moderate drop with an attractive stance. You also can't go wrong with H&R quality at a pretty reasonable price.

If you are going with lowering springs, it might be an idea to change your shocks/struts to aftermarket units suited to lowered cars. Again, I've found the Tokico HP blues offer a solid, if not somewhat stiff, ride. They are great for the money, though.

Coilovers are great for slamming the car or where you want the option of adjusting ride height (between road and track). Personally, I could not justify the cost as most of my ride is on the street and it would just be overkill for me.

Whichever way you decide to go, I'd suggest you also bear in mind what size rim/tire you envision for your Yaris. Many wide (6.5" +) rims with offsets lower than 40 will result in rubbing problems when your car's lowered. Just something to keep in mind.

Enjoy your ride!

[thebarber]

just come by my house, lol

its so easy, a kid can do it

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b339/dabarber/yaris/install%20day%202010/install02.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b339/dabarber/yaris/install%20day%202010/install04.jpg

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29258

ive run coilovers on the yaris, but im on eibach sportlines and stock shocks....since spring 2010. the ride is comfy, but sporty.

as for rims, keep an eye out on kijiji for used stuff, thats how i pick up all of the rims ive had...

id suggest trd springs as the drop is about 1.5", which looks great, but its not too low to run year-round. wheels/tires for summer, i think 15" are the most comfortable w/ 205-50-15 tires (thats also what i run), but 16" wheels look big while still having a decent amount of rubber on them (205-45-16 is about right)

[PETERPOOP]

coilovers. done.

[TEHxFALLEN V1.2]

coilovers. done.

Put the car on a lift, get under it, take a torch and heat your springs. Done.

[10peep]

Put the car on a lift, get under it, take a torch and heat your springs. Done.

If you actually LIKE your car, do NOT do that. :laughabove:

[Imagine]

I personally prefer the versatility of the coilovers the best. Not a lot more money, the shocks are valved to the springs, so you usually get a good mix of ride quality and sportiness. Plus you have the freedom of putting it at the height that works best for you. Coils and springs, you have one height and you're pretty much stuck. I've owned may different suspension setups and I can tell you I'll opt for coilovers every time.

[Trubin]

HELP!!!
I am considering to lower the car because I often drive over bridges and near coastal highways . I notice a lot of wind as I ride and get blown from one side of the lane to another. Are lowered springs good Idea? Should i consider a rear sway bar instead?How can I find out how much lower do I need my ride to be? I would also like to enhance my rides aesthetics. 1" inch drop seems unnoticeable, while 1.8" maybe a bit too much, or is it? If I am not planning on putting any body kit or nothing but my mom occasionally likes to economically ride over potholes, Should 1.8"-1.6" Tanabe DF210 suit me or should I go with 1.5" TRD. Which brands are more comfortable?

[SeriousBlack]

I think you'll find the TRD's more than enough drop for your commute.

If you want more cost effective options, consider H&R sport springs or Megan springs.

[cali yaris]

H&R with its progressive rate, is a very very good spring choice.

Sway bar also helps a lot with stability.

[yPod09]

SeriousBlack, can you post a photo of your car with the H&R's on it. I'm looking at ordering the same set-up, including the Tokico Blues from MI, and just wanted to see them on a 5dr first.

Thank you!
(My set up is 185/60/15...I think I saw on another post you are running 195/50/16).

[cali yaris]

^ Ah, I just PM'ed you. You can ignore; if there are any questions we can answer, let me know. thanks

[yPod09]

Thanks Garm, got it.

Never mind SeriousBlack, found some photos. Looks perfect!