We just got done installing and testing the prototype Motivational
Engineering low cost, shortened strut, coil over, low cost suspension system
for B13 and B14 Sentras and 200SX's.
This setup uses a special short body single adjustable Koni Insert
fabricateded into a Nissan shock body. The shock body is about 2 inches
shorter than the stock strut so the car can be significantly lowered without
loosing much travel. The shock body is threaded to accept Eibach ERS racing
springs. We tested 300 in/lb front with 200 in/lb rear springs. Truechoice
foam bumb stops are used as are GC upper spring mounts.
We also installed and tested the prototype Nu-Tech B14 adjustable front bar
and larger diameter than ST rear bar. These also worked quite well. Energy
bushings were used in the control arms and we found that the dogbone and
rear Energy urethane motor mounts from an SE-R fit perfectly in a 1.6 car!
We set the car two and a quarter inches lower than stock and it road much
nicer than just about anything short of a Truechoice or Shocktec high buck
set up, far superior to any non shortened strut assembly can. Considering
spring rates nearly twice as stiff as Pro-kits are used, the ride is
smoother than what is typical with Pro-Kits. The car handles very nicely as
it stays off the bump stops under hard cornering. Unlike the slip on GC
coil over setup, this setup does not rattle as the collars are built into
the strut body.
The disavantages over the Truechoice or Shocktec set up is that it is only
single adjustable in rebound only insted of double adjustable and the
adjustment range is more narrow. The shock is not external adjustable
either as the shaft must be compressed and turned to adjust the valving.
Hoever, this set-up will sell for about $1300 with springs, about $900
cheaper than Shoctec or Truechoice.
Motivational also makes a shortened strut assembly using a conventional
spring seat so you can have a smooth ride with no bottoming using
conventional springs like Pro-Kits or Progress. This strut setup is very
nicely priced at around $400 bucks or so I belive.
I recommend this as a good bang for the buck suspension highly. The only
advantage the high buch suspensions seem to have is a larger adjustment
range and easier adjustablity. This is important for serious racers but for
the average weekend warrior, this setup is the best for the money so far.
It can be raced or you can be set up for a cushy ride in a very lowered car.
The car handles almost as well as my USC winning 200SX.
Look for a full write up in the December SCC.
Motivational's phone number is 562 423-0993. Ask for Mike
Mike
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