Ohlins Coilover Setup

[FSUZ33]

Ready to pull the trigger. Almost reached out to Sakebomb Garage yesterday, but I decided to do more research and get advice from you.

To start off, I appreciate everyone’s opinions. I know I don’t NEED coilovers. But I’m doing it for the same reasons a dog licks his balls - because I want to.
Also, I’ve done a lot of reading here, but I still have questions.

Planning standard Road & Track, nothing fancy like the TTX.

Planning divorced, simply because I don’t want to have to ever think about rear strut tower issues. With this, new front upper control arms for adjustment (leaning SPL/NISMO). Anything else NEEDED front or rear?…or anything that would make for better ride and/or adjustability?

What things will Sakebomb want to know, that I should, know going into this?

Spring rates? A lot of talk about this here, but because Nissan has guarded a lot of that, I don’t even know what’s on it now. Some setups are the same SR on all four corners. Some are higher on the front vs rear. I think I may have even seen heavier on the rear, not positive.

Not sure if I’ve asked all I wanted to, but that’s at least most of it.

i appreciate everyone’s comments/advice, in advance!

 

[dport]

Get the street versions of the FUCAs and any rear links, and sway bar links. The track/race versions have a lot of NVH. On coilovers you should just do all of the links and arms.

Rear spring rate is usually different on these, I usually just tell people call the manufacturer and tell them your use case and they will recommend the right spring rates, don’t buy the 3rd party retailers pre configured version, especially if your looking at Ohlins don’t cut corners now.

 

[FSUZ33]

Would SPL and NISMO FUCAs, rods and rear midlinks be considered track/race?

Edit: Nevermind. I‘ve got it. Thanks for pointing this out.

 

[RSS]

Watching, I was looking at short term lowering springs when Sake Bomb said they were bringing the Ohlins out, so I waited and waited. Finally settled on doing KW this spring when it warms up So I am hoping you get some results.

 

[hipertec]

Following.. Looking to get coilovers too. Any fixes for negative camber when Z is lowered?

 

[FSUZ33]

I’ve started the journey. Plan to try to talk to pro’s next week. We’ll see where it goes with Sakebomb. There are others I’ve found (Cygnus and Arcflash) that will be backups. I’ll report anything of interest here.

 

[Drago86]

The Nismo JP ohlins springs rates might be a good place to start (12f/13r): https://www.nissanzclub.com/forum/threads/2024-ohlins-suspension-tuned-by-nismo-jp-53110‐rpz45.3476/

 

[trackratZ]

Wouldn't the wealth of information already out there with 370Z suspension tuning, coilovers, arms, etc. be applicable to our RZ34s? I plan to do stepwise with SPL arms next since our fronts are not adjustable for camber at all factory. At least the SPL can give me around -3 deg more or less depending on how tire temps are across the tread after sessions. Rear can get almost -2.5-3 depending on how much lowered.

 

[FSUZ33]

Wouldn't the wealth of information already out there with 370Z suspension tuning, coilovers, arms, etc. …

Yes. I’d assume there’s a lot of info out there for the Z34. But the RZ34 is heavier with a different engine. It hasn’t been fully defined what bits are different on the RZ34 where Z34 parts may not fit. The little stuff is mportant to me as I want the best setup I can afford. Not trying to be flippant, but I thought it would be great to ask and gather more information here rather than digging through thousands of posts on 17 year old forums that aren’t for my actual car. This would also put information here, and we we wouldn’t have to respond to people’s questions with with, “Go check 370Z forums. The info is there.” Not saying we need more threads on oil filter part numbers, but if we only discussed things that have never been discussed the conversations would be pretty sparse.

 

[OptionZero]

370Z parts all fit. For coilovers, all the mounting points are the same. The difference in part numbers for any company that has different specs will be different spring rates.

Since you're installing coilovers and FUCAs, you might as well get all the rear arms as well. Your alignment shop will certainly prefer to to ONE alignment after setting your desired height and having adjustment on all 4 corners.

A factor to consider:
With DIVORCED rears, you retain a spring bucket. On the stock bucket, there is a big opening to fit wider diameter springs.

As you are throwing suspension parts on , i would also get the rear arms as well so you can do ONE alignment on all 4 corners, in conjunction with height adjustment. With the toe arm, you will be using SPL rear midlinks to replace the factory bucket.

When you get the SPL rear midlinks (that replace the factory arm with the bucket), they only accept 60mm internal diamter (ID) springs. This is a common size (seems like Swift, Hyperco, Eibach all use it) so your options are pretty wide.
https://www.splparts.com/products/370z-g37-rear-mid-links.html

Illustration:
Factory rear toe arm with large bucket for spring

SPL "mid-link" with a spring . . . cone?

On a "true" coilover, you delete the spring bucket entirely as the spring is wrapped around the damper.

I use 14 kg/mm front; 10 kg/mm rears (Aragosta Type-S). This is the more track oriented version of their coilover with spherical bearings

I understand the RZ34 has a heavier front engine that will typically require a stiffer spring up front - however, I think the difference will mostly be felt at the limits, rather than in daily driving, once you have coilovers.

Just did a brief search of different RZ34 coilovers (kg/mm)
HKS Hypermax S
12 F, 11 R

Fortune 500
10 F, 9 R

BC Racing
10F, 9 R

Silvers
14 F, 8 R

Cusco Zero A
12 F, 11 R

As you can see there's a range, due to different goals and priorities.

As long as the dampers match the rates, the car should be able to eat bumps smoothly and provide a liveable ride

 

[OptionZero]

The Nismo JP ohlins springs rates might be a good place to start (12f/13r): https://www.nissanzclub.com/forum/threads/2024-ohlins-suspension-tuned-by-nismo-jp-53110‐rpz45.3476/

I am quite shocked that they went with a stiffer rear rate than front
Wondering if this was designed with a specific setup in mind (aero?)

 

[Drago86]

I am quite shocked that they went with a stiffer rear rate than front
Wondering if this was designed with a specific setup in mind (aero?)

Its just because the motion ratio is differnt front vs rear because of where the springs are mounted. As rough estimate for examples sake 12/13 front and rear spring rates would result in ~3.4 front and 1.7 rear wheel rates, using the estimated motion ratios of .53 front and .36 rear.

Be careful with the rates from differnt manufacturer's as you dont know if/how they are converting( I.E some only convert the rear divorced setup and quote the front straight) I'd ask how they are doing it.

Afaik the jp Ohlins and HKS coilovers are both quoted as the actual spring rates without the ratios taken into account.

 

[FSUZ33]

Spoke with Heath at Sakebomb. Excellent convo and great guy. They’ll use the long stroke setup, not R&T. Suggested 14F/11R. The 3K diff settles the rear without inducing understeer. Anxiously awaiting a quote.

 

[FSUZ33]

Sakebomb recently got parts for their RZ34 setups but hasn’t gotten the marketing stuff together yet for the website. Shouldn’t be too much longer.

BUT in the meantime, you can speak with them or stop by and get a
pre-introductory 10% discount. They‘ve got a backlog of setups to build for customers (all, not just Z) so It’s not quick turn at this point. I think he said 3 to 4 weeks (or maybe 4-5?).

On a technical note, my plan is not to slam the car. 3/4” to 1” max. Heath said that’s close, but I should be fine tweaking the alignment back to factory specs or close to it without changing any suspension components. So I’ve set that aside in my head right now. Some may disagree, and it would be nice to hear from those that feel there are components I really change while doing this.

 

[FSUZ33]

Not trying to sound like a schill for Sakebomb or Ohlins, but the way this post shaped up some may view it that way. Just want to get info out there for those interested.

The RZ34 setup from Sakebomb is what they call FPSpec Long Stroke Coilovers. I was unfamiliar with "FPSpec" as I hadn't seen it on Ohlins' site or any retailers online. Heath at Sakebomb spoke a lot about it, but I I didn't soak in enough to accurately regurgitate it.

The images below are from an A80 Supra kit, I think.

Below the images is what Google AI had to say (for sort of an 'aggregated internet description'). There's a lot there, I know. As expected, a healthy amount of 'marketing speak' but there's good/useful info in there as well. I'm sure Sakebomb's website details this stuff, but wanted as much non-biased info as possible...if that's even possible these days.
***Straight from Google AI. I have not verified the accuracy/validity of the information.***

__________________________________________________
"What is Ohlins FPSpec?"

Öhlins FPSpec is a line of high-performance, custom-engineered coilover suspension kits developed by the tuning companies SakeBomb Garage and MiataSpeed in partnership with Öhlins. These kits utilize Öhlins' patented Dual Flow Valve (DFV) technology but feature proprietary, longer-stroke shock bodies and custom valving tailored for specific car models (e.g., Miata, S2000, RX-8, Corvette, NSX) to maximize performance on both street and track.

Key Features and Benefits
The primary advantage of the FPSpec system is its ability to offer a unique blend of track-ready performance and comfortable street ride quality, which is often a compromise with standard suspension setups.

• Custom Long-Stroke DFV Damper Bodies: The exclusive longer shock bodies significantly increase suspension travel, allowing for a wider range of spring rate options (from soft "Grand Touring" to stiff "Track Dedicated") and the use of optional helper springs without sacrificing ride height or performance.
• Dual Flow Valve (DFV) Technology: This patented Öhlins technology provides consistent oil flow in both compression and rebound, allowing the shock to handle both small road imperfections and large impacts effectively. This results in improved tire contact with the road, maximum grip, and reduced chassis upset during cornering.
• Reduced Hysteresis: Öhlins dampers have ultra-low hysteresis ("slop" inside the damper), which means the suspension responds immediately to small surface changes, ensuring a more comfortable ride even with high spring rates.
• High-Quality Components: The kits include high-end components such as Swift springs (known for accuracy), fully-floating billet aluminum top hats with high-strength, Teflon-lined Aurora spherical bearings, and billet aluminum lower mounting forks for increased strength and reduced friction.
• Customization and Consultation: Each FPSpec kit is custom-valved for the specific customer's needs and intended use (street, autocross, track, etc.). SakeBomb Garage and its partners offer a lifetime chassis consultation service to help owners set up their suspension correctly, eliminating guesswork.
• Premium Materials: The shocks use high-grade Öhlins 1304 race oil and feature an internal temperature correction valve to ensure consistent performance regardless of oil temperature.

In essence, FPSpec is a premium, no-compromise solution that refines the already excellent standard Öhlins DFV platform with bespoke components and expert tuning to create one of the highest-performing and most comfortable coilover systems available for specific vehicle platforms.
__________________________________________________
"What are the advantages of Ohlins FPSpec over other coilovers?"

The primary advantages of the Öhlins FPSpec system over standard coilovers are its significantly increased suspension travel, bespoke valving, and superior quality ancillary components designed to reduce friction and maximize performance across a wider range of uses, from comfortable street driving to competitive track use.

Key Advantages

• Custom Long-Stroke Dampers: FPSpec kits feature custom-length shock bodies that offer more total suspension travel (stroke) than standard, off-the-shelf coilovers. This increased travel improves performance and drivability at various ride heights and spring rates (both soft grand touring and stiff race setups) and eliminates issues associated with insufficient travel or excessive preload.

• Reduced Hysteresis (Friction): The kits utilize fully floating billet aluminum top hats with Teflon-lined Aurora spherical bearings, a design found on top race teams' setups. This eliminates the bending loads on the damper shaft that occur with standard rubber bushings, which drastically reduces friction (hysteresis) for more consistent, predictable, and responsive suspension performance in all conditions.

• Custom Valving and Race Oil: Each set is individually custom-valved by Öhlins (to the specifications of SakeBomb Garage/MiataSpeed) to match the user's specific spring rate choice and intended vehicle use. They also come pre-filled with high-grade Öhlins 1304 race oil, which provides more consistent damping performance across a wider range of temperatures than the generic oil used in standard kits.

• High-End Components: The FPSpec system includes several premium components not found on standard kits, such as:
- Ultra-accurate Swift brand main and helper springs (in an exclusive Öhlins gold color).
- Billet aluminum lower mounting forks that are stronger, lighter, and more compact than standard steel ones, further maximizing shock travel.
- High-torque, non-marring adjustment spanners to prevent damage during setup adjustments.

• Personalized Setup and Support: Every FPSpec kit includes a lifetime chassis consultation service. This expert advice helps customers determine optimal spring rates, ride heights, and settings based on their specific car and driving style, removing the guesswork often involved with tuning standard, generic kits.
platforms.
__________________________________________________
What are the advantages of buying Ohlins coilivers from Sakebomb vs an off-the-shelf car-specific Ohlins Road and Track kit?

The primary advantage of buying Öhlins FPSpec coilovers from SakeBomb Garage (SBG)
versus an off-the-shelf Öhlins Road & Track (R&T) kit is the customization for specific driving needs, significantly increased suspension travel, and enhanced component quality. While the off-the-shelf R&T kits are excellent dual-purpose options, the FPSpec version provides a bespoke, high-performance solution.

FPSpec vs. Road & Track Kit Comparison

SakeBomb FPSpec Ohlins DFV	Off-the-Shelf Ohlins Road & Track
Damper Stroke Custom ultra-long-stroke bodies to maximize travel.	Damper Stroke Standard length, which may limit lowering or require high preload in the rear to avoid bottoming out.
Valving Custom valved by SBG engineers to match individual spring rates and intended use.	Valving Standardized valving tuned for the off-the-shelf springs included in the kit.
Springs Uses high-quality, ultra-accurate Swift springs (main and optional helpers) in custom rates chosen by the user.	Springs Comes with standard Öhlins springs at a fixed rate, though other rates might be available for purchase separately.
Top Mounts Includes fully floating billet aluminum top hats with high-strength, teflon-lined Aurora spherical bearings.	Top Mounts Typically reuses OEM upper mounts or offers less robust options, depending on the application.
Lower Mounts Features single-piece billet aluminum lower mounting forks for increased strength and length optimization.	Lower Mounts Uses standard steel or aluminum lower mounting forks.
Consultation Lifetime chassis consultation service to help dial in the setup.	Consultation Standard installation instructions and general recommendations.
Shock Oil Filled with upgraded Öhlins 1304 Race oil.	Shock Oil Uses standard shock oil.

Advantages of the FPSpec Kit

• Optimized Performance: The longer stroke and custom valving allow the suspension to perform optimally with a wider range of spring rates, from comfortable daily driving to aggressive track setups, without compromising ride quality or running out of travel.
• Superior Ride Quality and Control: The combination of custom valving, upgraded race oil, and high-end components reduces hysteresis and provides consistent, predictable performance and excellent bump absorption, even with stiffer springs.
• Precise Setup: The consultation service and pre-calculated setup parameters eliminate the guesswork often involved in setting up performance coilovers, ensuring the system is tailored to the specific car and driver from the start.
• Enhanced Durability: Billet aluminum components and high-quality spherical bearings offer improved strength, longevity, and consistent performance compared to standard parts.