I have an '06 Z with about 4000 miles on it.

I have read reviews about the tanabe GF210 or tein s-tech offering better handling, but is this actually the case. I understand that they will offer a better ride as they are progressive springs, but not sure how they improve handling.

From the performance nissan website, tanabe GF210 offer spring rates of 6.0kg/mm=338lb/in for the front and 6.7kg/mm=378lb/in. Meanwhile the oem spring rates are 314/342.

So does increased spring rates always result in better handling or are the rates close enough that it depends on the shocks. Also, are there any linear springs that can work with oem shocks.

One more thing, will springs alone increase wear on the shocks. I always thought they did, but others claim they don't.

 

Yes, springs alone will give you some improvement over stock. Not as much as coilovers or something else, and some springs will offer more performance than others. But to answer your question, yes.

A stiffer spring rate will help give you better traction, and lowering your center of gravity will also help you corner.

 

Hotckis springs work with with the OEM shocks...you can get the TVS 1 kit (springs & sways) for around $400 shipped; I have it and love the ride! It's not too low that it effects everyday driving (it doesn't bottom out on most curb), but the performance is wonderful.

 

heezyo2o

you have an 06' make year. so, your OEM rates are different than the earlier years. the 06' I believe is the same to other 2004.5+ make years, so your rear rates are 427lb/in

so, if you consider spring rate a measure of "handling", then you are taking a step back in the rear with those springs. however, there is much more to handling than just spring rate (linear vs progressive, front/rear rate choices, proper damping, sways, tires, tire pressures, height/rake, etc etc)

also keep in mind that the spring rates quoted for progressive springs are often the final rates. so the initial rates could be significantly softer.

it's not easy setting up a suspension, often takes alot of time, trial and error, to set it up the way you want it to handle vs. what someone else thinks. whatever you do, change one thing at a time, evaluate the change, and make your next move to continue in the direction you are trying to get to.

good luck

pp

edit - GreddySetGo - "A stiffer spring rate will help give you better traction" - this is not necessarily true

 

You're right. I was actually aware of this, but quoted the wrong rates. The 04.5+ are indeed 314/427.

About the progressive springs, the initial rates along with the way they react sway me towards linear springs.

 

Yes springs will improve handling for sure. Go with TEIN S-Tech or hotchkis springs

 

You must make sure that the spring and dampers are matched!!! Make sure the spring you buy works with whatever damper you have/going to put on!!! You can decrease the performance of your suspension if they are not matched. That is why people pay the extra money for coil-overs!