choosing performance shocks...

[eric_edge]

ok so i want to mod the suspension on my '11 3dr for fun and looks. sorted.

lowering springs and a sway bar seem to be the way to go. i'm familiar with the variety available, pros and cons etc. fair enough.

now i'm stuck with how to choose shocks (understanding that they're essential to the longevity of a drop job). im not too clear on the impact one set is going to have over the next...most discussion seems to place emphasis on spring progression and shortness affecting ride and handling.

where do the shocks come in? what impact can they have? any experiences to share? advice?

initially i was going to go all TRD to keep things simple and be safe within warranty but...hehe... :evil:

[eric_edge]

so far what i've found is basically TRD shock set @ $431.25 v. the tokico blues from micro @ $349.95

...open to suggestions though :)

[why?]

have you thought about coilovers? MI has a few sets under a grand, and they give you some adjustability as well.

TRD stuff is overpriced and consensus seems to be they aren't any more special for the extra money.

[eric_edge]

...coils scare me :eyebulge:

they seem like a lot of upkeep with the whole having to realign every time you adjust thing. i dont have any sort of mechanical history...couldnt change the oil on my car if my life depended on it :redface:

[MUSKOKA800]

[QUOTE=eric_edge;597781]

where do the shocks come in? what impact can they have? any experiences to share? advice?

QUOTE]

Lowering springs are usually of a higher spring rate to avoid bottoming and improve handling on smooth surfaces.
OEM shocks are not spec'ed to control these higher spring rates so bottoming is more likely to occur and the insuffient rebound damping will allow the springs to pogo up and down after a compression, like worn shocks do.
Some here may argue but I would never shorten my suspension range (lowering) and/or stiffen the springs without also upgrading the dampers (shocks & struts) to control the stronger springs.

When I did my suspension in 2008 the Tokico's where not yet available. That said, I am thrilled with the performance offered by the TRD set-up currently in play. That said, I may go to a heavier rear swaybar to further reduce understeer since adding the heavy Blitz S/C up front and it's power boost has increased power-on understeer considerably. Stickier tires may help as well.

Good Luck with your upgrades. I really don't think you can go far wrong with any of the suspension products currently available for Yaris.

[cali yaris]

they seem like a lot of upkeep with the whole having to realign every time you adjust thing.

You don't have to do that.