going widetrack which shocks are best

[freebee]

the title says it all I am converting to wide track which shocks are best? what length? and do I need new springs? or can I use the old ones??

[Grubbster]

You can go wide track with the standard Billies, but you can extend them by an inch with an adapter from Caterham if you want to (this is all Caterham do). But the increased leverage does mean the springs are effectively a bit softer, not much but softer all the same so going up a bit on spring rate (e.g. to 200) would compensate for this. As for 'whats best' this opens up a huge debate usually! I think the majority who choose to upgrade go for Nitrons all round (some use Avo or Ohlins). Spring rates around 225 front and 130 rear are a common preference for road and track use I believe.

[Mellow7]

I went from narrow to widetrack using standard shocks with adapters and noticed no discernable difference in the damper performance. Car felt quite different though initially but you get used to it and it feels like a "bigger" car and inspires confidence more. Plus my wings don't bash my indicators any more!!!

[Mellow7]

I went from narrow to widetrack using standard shocks with adapters and noticed no discernable difference in the damper performance. Car felt quite different though initially but you get used to it and it feels like a "bigger" car and inspires confidence more. Plus my wings don't bash my indicators any more!!!

[freebee]

thanks for the replies i have to replace my front shocks as one is damaged. so replacing with standard length plus adaptor seems like a waste.

[Toaster]

freebee said:

thanks for the replies i have to replace my front shocks as one is damaged. so replacing with standard length plus adaptor seems like a waste.

Its not a waste as this is a standard factory supply and by standard I do not mean inferior. The other dampers available are just a matter of preference.

[V7SLR]

What age is the car?

[freebee]

Its 2005,

[freebee]

Its 2005,

[casbar]

Toaster said:

Its not a waste as this is a standard factory supply and by standard I do not mean inferior. The other dampers available are just a matter of preference.

I would disagree with the above statement that standard are not inferior. Standard is built to a cost and spring rates and valving suit many. If you want to set up your car to a specific application and corner weight, then some after market shocks offer a better option. Personally Nitron shocks were a great choice and if I was ever buying shocks again for a Caterham they would be my choice