[m4ximusprim3]

Looking at coilovers and these two seem to be the most popular/capable.

The BC's have adjustable damping while the XTA is fixed, but has a camber plate. XTA is also significantly more $.

Anyone have an experience with these? Especially anyone who has actually held them both and can comment on build quality etc. Currently leaning towards the BC's but would love feedback.

 

[KKaWing]

XTA has adjustable damping. Only the ST-X has fixed damping. (T for top mount/plate, A for adjustable)

 

[m4ximusprim3]

Interesting. The ralysport direct site for the XTA says preset, so I assumed that meant they weren't adjustable. However, the ST suspension site confirms that they are, so that makes my decision more clear cut.

Any opinions on whether the ST's are worth the extra coin from a quality standpoint?

 

[KKaWing]

They have the dampers valved specifically for the car, rather than using a predetermined cartridge like the Chinese/Taiwanese coilovers. That said, some people believe the Teflon coating on BCs is better than the galvanized zinc bodies of the ST for weatherproofing. But for the "best" damping, go with ST's. Some say BC is better for the "independent" height adjustment. That just means it has less travel no matter now you set the height. Shouldn't really be a problem either way.

If I were to slam, I'd go BC. If the lowering range for the ST is what I'm looking for, I'd go ST's. Just my opinion though, can't go wrong either way.

 

[Chuckable]

The ST camber plate requires that you cut the strut towers to access the camber adjustment. Not sure if that makes a difference to you or not, but thought you should know.

 

[captainmorbid]

Not to go off topic, but KW makes some brilliant suspension products for all Fiestas as well. They are the mother corp for ST suspension too.

 

[Chuckable]

In case this is useful, here's a link to an install: http://www.motoiq.com/MagazineArtic...mproving-the-Handling-With-ST-Suspension.aspx

Maybe email them for an update?

 

[m4ximusprim3]

Cool, thanks! I even learned what the little silver box on the front suspension is. Into the trash with that unsprung weight!

 

[Chuckable]

Let us know your impressions if you buy!

 

[m4ximusprim3]

I think I'm definitely set on the XTA's for the better damping and the higher potential ride height (which is sort of what I'm going for since I'm running 225's and having clearance issues under hard cornering with mountunes). Now the question is which kidney do i need less?