16 replies to this topic

[Ibexx]

I've recently replaced my old Spax dampers for a set of Protech lowered dampers. I also bought a set of lowered brackets from http://www.minispare...id=34805&title=

My Mini is very low and now the damper is hitting the subframe:




What would be the best solution? Can I cut away a bit of the subframe or do I have to buy brackets for coilovers. If so, which ones would be best?

Thanks!

[mike.]

I've fitted those brackets and didn't have that problem.

Your car looks like its running very low and close to the bump stops, this won't really be helping, although the top arm should be able to move its full range of motion without the damper fouling anything.

I would maybe send some pics to protech and see if they've had this issue before as it's obviously that lip on the shock which other shocks don't have which is causing the problem.

[jagman.2003]

I wouldn't recommend cutting the subframe either. I know it's tempting to solve the problem, but the strength of that tower which holds the rubber spring would be compromised.

[Ibexx]

Thanks for the replies. I have contacted Protech already and they said I cant take a bit of the damper because there's an o-ring fitted inside. The Mini is very low because it's used on the track only and therefore only needs a very small amount of travel.

I guess the only solution is to change the lower mount or get different dampers? I've looked at some of the coilover brackets and that could work. Does anyone know which brackets are best suited for very low cars?

[bmcecosse]

Your car is FAR TOO LOW - serious danger of snapping a ball joint - or pulling it through the cap. And -you don't buy both short dampers AND short brackets - it's one or the other. Put the standard brackets back on - and raise the car to a sensible height!

[Ibexx]

Uhm ok, to be honest I didn't know it was risky. I've seen other racers like Miglia's at this height. How do they get this low then?

[mike.]

I think miglias raise the subframe up by removing the mounts between the body and subframe. This lowers the front of the car without effecting geo and also I've seen ball joint spacer type things which help correct the angle of the ball joint which they might use too.

[woodenman23]

maybe your answer, http://www.minispare...id=33269&title=

[bmcecosse]

Race cars are running on a nice smooth surface - and they accept greater risks than are wise on the road. The top ball joint has very limited articulation - running that low and hitting a bump/pothole could easily break the stem of the joint or pull it out through the cap. Next thing you know you are in a ditch or under an 18 wheeler.......not good. Have a look under the rubber cap/seal and see how close the stem is to the edge of the hole in the retaining cap.......
And -how does that link have any relevance to this problem ??

Edited by bmcecosse, 12 December 2011 - 10:16 PM.

[Ibexx]

Well, it is a race car. So no risk of running into potholes or 18 wheelers It's not a road legal car and is trailered to the track. Like I said it needs only a tiny bit of travel on the suspension. I will definately check how close the stem is to the edge.

I really like the idea of raising the subframe. Main problem I see is the front subframe mounts, I don't have a removable front. I would love to see pictures of how this is done. Would also like a link to the ball joint spacer thing.

[benpopham]

http://geralddale.co...-sport-products

Ball joint spacers ^

He also produces the top subframe mount spacer that is needed to raise the front subframe.

Ben

[Ibexx]

That's exactly what I need, thanks!

I will contact them to find out how it all works. Have you got a set on yours and if so, any pics?

[benpopham]

I have got a set of the ball joint spacers, but not on there yet ( mini is in a shell like state! ) I have brought quite a bit from Mondo Sport, all good stuff and a helpful guy, just give him a call.

Also, have you got any pictures of your car. looks awesome in the little pictures!

Ben

[Ibexx]

Thanks! Sure:

Edited by Ibexx, 14 December 2011 - 09:49 AM.

[benpopham]

Very smart looking Mini, I really like that!

I like the 1000 badge on the back too