Front\rear Height Balance

[_Scotty_]

From what I've read on these forums, the standard R33 GTS25t center of wheel to guard measurement is 10mm higher at the front than the rear. I've also seen the recommended height, particularly with the Whiteline kit, listed with the front 10mm higher (ie 350/340). My Nismo springs on the other hand sit the wheel to guard 20mm lower at the front than the rear. I've noticed a few other Jap aftermarket springs set the car up like this as well.

What difference does this height balance make to handling, and ultimately what is a better set up for street use?

I've got a set of Bilsteins getting groves machined into them at the moment so I'm trying to decide the heights I'll use. At the moment I'm leaning towards making the front and rear even, ie 350/350.

[Sydneykid]

For handling the recommended ride height for an R33GTST is 350mm front and 340mm rear. Which gives a 10mm rake, nose down as measured at the sills, just behind the front wheels and just in front of the rear wheels.

Cheers

Gary

[_Scotty_]

Cheers Gary, much appreciated. I'll set it up as recommended.

Out of interest, what is the downside of having greater than 10mm positive rake? Any ideas why the Jap springs sit the front so much lower, just for looks perhaps?

[Sydneykid]

Cheers Gary, much appreciated. I'll set it up as recommended.

Out of interest, what is the downside of having greater than 10mm positive rake? Any ideas why the Jap springs sit the front so much lower, just for looks perhaps?

They run out of travel, the camber change angles turn to crap and they develop some bump steer. My guesses, the Japs have better roads, smoother tracks, they don't drive very far so ride conmfort isn't as important and they care more about looks than handling.

Cheers

Gary