Are limiting straps (aka droop stops) necessary with coilovers?

Mike Braddock · #1 (**permalink**) 06-19-2002, 08:54 AM

I just finished installing and adjusting my Aldan coilovers on the front and rear and I'm wondering if I need to install limiting straps to prevent damaging the shock assemblies when the suspension is at full droop. I've seen a lot of cars both ways, so I'm not sure if it's necessary. Thanks in advance for any input guys!

Mike

Richard Hudgins · #2 (**permalink**) 06-19-2002, 09:30 AM

Mike,

When your suspension is at full droop, are the dampers topped out?

If so, you will need to install droop limiters to keep from damaging the damper pistons.

Mike Braddock · #3 (**permalink**) 06-19-2002, 09:39 AM

Richard,

Thanks for the quick reply. Yes, they are topped out at full droop. It looks like it should be pretty simple to install limiting straps on the rear, but I'm not sure what type of arrangement should be used in the front. I'm running mustang II standard upper and lower control arms. I'll take another look at it this evening. Thanks again Richard.

Mike

boxhead · #4 (**permalink**) 06-23-2002, 08:22 AM

Hello Mike
I would check with the suppliers regarding weather you will need to fit travel limitng straps.
When i was raceing my dune buggy i had bilstein shocks fitted that were designed to be ok at full drop (buggies spend alot of time with the wheels in the air).
I honestly think you wont need straps because i dont think you will have the car airborn too often (except when it is on jacks supports).
I wouldnt mind betting that your daily drive car doesnt have straps fitted, yet when its wheels are off the ground its shocks are at full travel.

jerry rowley · #5 (**permalink**) 06-23-2002, 07:32 PM

Mike, none of the Uniques use limit straps and they all have coil-overs at least on the front. Mine has them all around and no straps. And no problems. I use Carrera coil-overs.
Jerry

Richard Hudgins · #6 (**permalink**) 06-23-2002, 09:34 PM

Mike, Jerry and Boxhead,

A couple of thoughts here.

1. Off road dampers have a internal droop stop. This is typically a urethane or EPDM part. This keeps the damper piston from damaging itself on full droop or TOP OUT as it is known in off road racing.

2. If you will read the Carrera information, they caution against droop top out as it will upset the handling and damage the damper.

3. I certainly understand that very few Cobra type cars will ever "top out the damper" during use on the road or track. However, if your dampers top out when you jack your car up, damage can be done to the pistons in the dampers. That is why JBL puts droop stops on the chassis. (Note: these are not straps, but positve stops that limit droop travel.) Dampers are very delicate units. They are also expensive.

I have always felt it is best to design the mechanical bits to work properly and not have any interference problems or travel problems. It is easy to do things correct. It is hard to fix things when they fail or are poorly designed.

Just my humble opinion.