Revision as of 02:50, 8 December 2011

Datsun 1200 in stock form uses 89.6 lb/in front springs, and a rear leaf spring of 109 lb/in. The front spring rate is best for comfort, while the rear spring rate is fairly stiff to allow for loading and rear seat passengers.

1 Front Spring Rate
2 Rear Spring Rate

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Front Spring Rate

Datsun 1200 in stock form uses 89.6 lb/in front springs, which is the best for comfort. The stock suspension if in good shape results in a smooth comfortable ride. It is not bouncy.

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Lowering

Lowering the car decreases the suspension travel. This increases the probability of bottoming out. Therefore, heavier springs are called for to prevent bottoming out. This causes a stiff, uncomfortable ride but is the price paid for the good looks of lowering.

See main article: Lowering

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Autocross

For autocrossing, 250 lb/in rate is what many use. The tight turns at speed want a flat ride, and comfort is not important in rallying. Keeping the car composed with quick directional changes are what's important.

Dedicated autocross: 250 lb/in with A12 or 275 lb/in with A14/A15

Part-time street/autocross: 175 lb/in springs

Gary_P says:

On my street/autocross 1200 I'm running 250# springs in the front. They seem to match up with the rear leaf springs nicely. If you stiffen the front with higher rate springs and/or stiffer anti-sway bar you will need to add a rear anti-sway bar, preferably an adjustable one so you can balance the handling of the car.

Benny:

I currently run a kings spring 275 lbs 180mm free length spring in my track car and a 5kg/mm generic [280 lb] 180mm free length in my streeter with a tender spring. I would say that its [streeter with 280lbs] just a tad too firm for the street. 4kg /mm [220 lb] would be better.

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