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Omega Help Area => Omega General Help => Topic started by: Dave Elite on 07 March 2009, 22:44:26

Title: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 07 March 2009, 22:44:26
Im fitting some new rear springs tomorow, and I don't know which way up they go. The coils go like this /// / / / /. Do the close coils go at the top or bottom? thanks for any help.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Martin_1962 on 07 March 2009, 23:21:17
Any writing - if so - that way up
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 07 March 2009, 23:45:48
No writting on them. Anyone any idea?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 08 March 2009, 09:45:36
Makes little odds in reality (most decent springs have arrows and indication).

I will post a pic in 10 mins of the new ones I am fitting today so you can see.

Key thing is to ensure the bottom tail points towards the rear of the car to stop whistling noises

Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 08 March 2009, 09:58:15
(http://images.omegaowners.com/images/guides/rear_spring_replace/IMG_0197.jpg)

And added to the guide
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Andy B on 08 March 2009, 10:07:42
I'm glad you posted the picture because I thought the coils were spaced like that ie /// / / //



The generic springs I fitted to SWMBO's Astra were the same thickness  of coil all the way along .. ie not tapering at each  end aswell as being closer at each end too.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 08 March 2009, 10:09:04
Quote
I'm glad you posted the picture because I thought the coils were spaced like that ie /// / / //



The generic springs I fitted to SWMBO's Astra were the same thickness  of coil all the way along .. ie not tapering at each  end aswell as being closer at each end too.


You will note that on the KYB parts aboe, the last few turns top and bottom are of thinner wire.....unlike the super cheap items which are a constant thickness
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Andy B on 08 March 2009, 10:15:55
Quote
Quote
I'm glad you posted the picture because I thought the coils were spaced like that ie /// / / //



The generic springs I fitted to SWMBO's Astra were the same thickness  of coil all the way along .. ie not tapering at each  end aswell as being closer at each end too.


You will note that on the KYB parts aboe, the last few turns top and bottom are of thinner wire.....unlike the super cheap items which are a constant thickness
 ::)like those fitted to her Astra! It's not exactly driven hard on the 3 mile trip to work or to Tesco :y, and Vauxhall want £silly so they were supplied by a loacl motor factor.  ;D
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 08 March 2009, 13:23:31
Quote
Quote
Quote
I'm glad you posted the picture because I thought the coils were spaced like that ie /// / / //



The generic springs I fitted to SWMBO's Astra were the same thickness  of coil all the way along .. ie not tapering at each  end aswell as being closer at each end too.


You will note that on the KYB parts aboe, the last few turns top and bottom are of thinner wire.....unlike the super cheap items which are a constant thickness
 ::)like those fitted to her Astra! It's not exactly driven hard on the 3 mile trip to work or to Tesco :y, and Vauxhall want £silly so they were supplied by a loacl motor factor.  ;D

Ah yes but, there is reasonable priced after market and there is shite!

I would not fit the shite to be honest, its not worth it from a handling adn dynamics perspective
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Andy B on 08 March 2009, 13:29:03
Quote
.....
Ah yes but, there is reasonable priced after market and there is shite!

I would not fit the shite to be honest, its not worth it from a handling adn dynamics perspective

I can't now even remember how much I paid - maybe £40  :-/  :-/ , and certainly not the make.  ::)
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: tomoco on 08 March 2009, 14:57:48
Good choice of spring Mark. :). Mine drives like a limo now, thanks to you and jimbob. didnt realise how bad the old one's were till they were replaced.
Thanks again mate :y

Mark
 P.S. for anyone interested they cost £38.50 plus vat each
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 08 March 2009, 15:11:30
Quote
Good choice of spring Mark. :). Mine drives like a limo now, thanks to you and jimbob. didnt realise how bad the old one's were till they were replaced.
Thanks again mate :y

Mark
 P.S. for anyone interested they cost £38.50 plus vat each

Thanks for the gloves!

I paid 26+vat each  :y
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: psl on 08 March 2009, 16:02:46
how do you know if they need doing?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Andy B on 08 March 2009, 16:06:14
Quote
how do you know if they need doing?

Usual reason is that there's a bit missing off one end.  ;)
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: chrisdb on 08 March 2009, 17:33:17
I need a set of rear springs for the auto levelling suspension but cannot get them anywhere. Tried KYB but they only do the non levelling ones. VX said they cost £200 - anyone know where I can get some at a decent price?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 11 March 2009, 10:56:18
Quote
(http://images.omegaowners.com/images/guides/rear_spring_replace/IMG_0197.jpg)

And added to the guide
I fitted cheapo ebay ones and the back is up in the air. So I have just been to my local factors and bought these kyb ones. Thanks for all the help. Dave
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 11 March 2009, 10:58:56
Can you post some pics of the cheap ebay ones please.

I note that there are some lesjofers ones on ebay which are ok.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 11 March 2009, 13:44:03
Quote
Can you post some pics of the cheap ebay ones please.

I note that there are some lesjofers ones on ebay which are ok.
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VAUXHALL-OMEGA-COIL-SPRINGS-REAR-2-2-2-0-2-5-2-5-3-0_W0QQitemZ220266301718QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM?hash=item220266301718&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1683%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318
Very bad quality. I should have known better, anyway you live and learn. I have the kyb ones now so will fit them this weekend.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 11 March 2009, 13:51:50
Ahhh....so a cheap constant diameter wire used, yep, that would affect the ride height!

Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 11 March 2009, 13:52:22
These ones look rather nasty to!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VAUXHALL-OMEGA-94-04-REAR-COIL-SPRING-QUALITY-BRAND_W0QQitemZ120388637405QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM?hash=item120388637405&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1683%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 11 March 2009, 13:57:23
Quote
These ones look rather nasty to!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VAUXHALL-OMEGA-94-04-REAR-COIL-SPRING-QUALITY-BRAND_W0QQitemZ120388637405QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM?hash=item120388637405&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1683%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318
They look even worse than the ones I bought. The ride hight is about 2-3 " too high at the moment, I can't wait to get the bast*rds off!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: largecol on 11 March 2009, 14:00:53
Yikes!! My mattress has better coils than that!! :D :D :D :D ;D
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 15 March 2009, 22:17:51
I thought I heard a knocking noise the other day - just found a piece of rear spring on my drive. Is it ok to drive the car without doing any damage? - level is unchanged at moment.

I will probably by VX parts - any idea what the springs would cost with trade card versus dealer price? Will probably not go Ebay route on this one.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: PhilCavSRi130 on 15 March 2009, 22:41:17
Ive got a couple of sets of Elite rear springs sat doing nothing both came off self leveling cars. If anyone wants a pair email me at cavaliergsi@hotmail.com with an offer. I also have the fronts to go with them.

In case your wondering, i broke my first car and the one i've got now i fitted with Irmscher shocks and springs to improve the handling.  :)
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: feeutfo on 15 March 2009, 23:01:40
my old one, with the right angle, guess where the other one broke?
and the one i replaced it with.


(http://i344.photobucket.com/albums/p326/chrisgixer/25102008242.jpg)
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Harison213 on 15 March 2009, 23:05:09
Quote
I thought I heard a knocking noise the other day - just found a piece of rear spring on my drive. Is it ok to drive the car without doing any damage? - level is unchanged at moment.

I will probably by VX parts - any idea what the springs would cost with trade card versus dealer price? Will probably not go Ebay route on this one.

Well you're not close to Tunbridge Wells, but for any one in or around here there's CAT Components (I believe they're a national or Kentish chain) where I got my springs only few days ago. I was told they're OEM parts. They do look exactly as the VX part (rugby ball shape and thinner at the ends). Retail at £44.87 and I got it at trade price for £33.96 each. IIRC I was quoted by VX about £300 for a pair with 1 week lead time!!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 15 March 2009, 23:10:59
Thanks guys - but are there any adverse consequences of driving it a few miles for next day or so till I sort out a time to get it fixed? Will anything else get damaged? Thanks
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Harison213 on 15 March 2009, 23:17:43
Quote
Thanks guys - but are there any adverse consequences of driving it a few miles for next day or so till I sort out a time to get it fixed? Will anything else get damaged? Thanks

I don't think anything happens. Mine snapped just as you described and I found the piece on road as I pulled over. The height of the car seemed the same all round (height between tyre and wheel arch) so I thought the snapped piece probably isn't mine! This was probably 15k miles ago and I only found out when I was changing trailing arm last week!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: feeutfo on 15 March 2009, 23:20:56
Quote
Thanks guys - but are there any adverse consequences of driving it a few miles for next day or so till I sort out a time to get it fixed? Will anything else get damaged? Thanks

mine was broke for 3 months before i noticed and got it
 fixed. :-/
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 15 March 2009, 23:29:28
cheers to all - can take my time then as away for a few days end of next week.

One other question - just looked on KYB website (as mentioned in earlier posts under this thread) -
http://www.kyb-europe.com/spring-coils.html

and it advises changing shocks at same time. My car has done 83000 with no previous shock absorber or spring changes.   KYB recommends (they would do I suppose wouldn't they) that shocks are changed in pairs at same time as springs. What do you reckon?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: chrisdb on 15 March 2009, 23:35:38
Quote
Ive got a couple of sets of Elite rear springs sat doing nothing both came off self leveling cars. If anyone wants a pair email me at cavaliergsi@hotmail.com with an offer. I also have the fronts to go with them.

In case your wondering, i broke my first car and the one i've got now i fitted with Irmscher shocks and springs to improve the handling.  :)

I'll have those thanks! ;D I've sent you an email but let me know if you don't get it. :y
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: tomoco on 15 March 2009, 23:39:04
Marks DTM noticed one of my rear coils had broken about a year ago. The car still passed its MOT in jan 09 no probs. i only got a bit concerned when i pulled out a bit the size of my fist. (better get them sorted sharpish i thought). Get some as soon as you can mate VX one's are too expensive 200 plus  and thats just for parts. and trade too
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: feeutfo on 15 March 2009, 23:45:59
Quote
cheers to all - can take my time then as away for a few days end of next week.

One other question - just looked on KYB website (as mentioned in earlier posts under this thread) -
http://www.kyb-europe.com/spring-coils.html

and it advises changing shocks at same time. My car has done 83000 with no previous shock absorber or spring changes.   KYB recommends (they would do I suppose wouldn't they) that shocks are changed in pairs at same time as springs. What do you reckon?
In the ideal world, yes but how far do you take it, if it was of me i would just do the springs on the rear, the shocks are independent anyway.

The front is a different matter as shocks and springs are fitted to each other, so may as well do both if you have the wedge.... Imho :-)
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 15 March 2009, 23:55:46
Many thanks - all these posts have been very helpful. Will get everything checked over and see exactly what is required.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 17 March 2009, 11:41:06
Has anyone used KME springs (German I think). My local garage (not VX) quotes £210 fitted - heavy duty (there is a cheaper option at £186). This garage has been here for years and is trusted - they say that they have fitted them for years.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 18 March 2009, 19:09:12
Can someone clarify another point please? A lot of the springs on the web say "not suitable for self levelling suspension". What is the difference between the two types and is it possible for the wrong ones to be fitted i.e. is it immediately obvious or not that it is a different part? If it is not obvious - what happens if you fit the wring ones - ride height - shock wear?

Referring to my earlier post - KME is actually the Lesjofers brand as mentioned by MarksDTM. Garage has not got back to me yet as to whether it is suitable for self levelling suspension.

Do all 3.2V6s have self levelling?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 18 March 2009, 19:17:19
Quote
Can someone clarify another point please? A lot of the springs on the web say "not suitable for self levelling suspension". What is the difference between the two types and is it possible for the wrong ones to be fitted i.e. is it immediately obvious or not that it is a different part? If it is not obvious - what happens if you fit the wring ones - ride height - shock wear?

Referring to my earlier post - KME is actually the Lesjofers brand as mentioned by MarksDTM. Garage has not got back to me yet as to whether it is suitable for self levelling suspension.

Do all 3.2V6s have self levelling?


Right

1) Lesjofers do NOT do springs for self leveling setups.

2) 200 quid fitted is expensive, its an hours work and the parts are no more than 80 quid for a pair.

As for the springs, the self leveling ones appear to be lightly softer than the standard.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 19 March 2009, 22:17:44
Quote
Quote
I thought I heard a knocking noise the other day - just found a piece of rear spring on my drive. Is it ok to drive the car without doing any damage? - level is unchanged at moment.

I will probably by VX parts - any idea what the springs would cost with trade card versus dealer price? Will probably not go Ebay route on this one.

Well you're not close to Tunbridge Wells, but for any one in or around here there's CAT Components (I believe they're a national or Kentish chain) where I got my springs only few days ago. I was told they're OEM parts. They do look exactly as the VX part (rugby ball shape and thinner at the ends). Retail at £44.87 and I got it at trade price for £33.96 each. IIRC I was quoted by VX about £300 for a pair with 1 week lead time!!

I assume the ones you got from CAT at that price were not for self levelling suspension - phoned today and the self leveller types are £58 each - and £15 delivery with a weeks lead time in as they do not hold stock. Anyone know the name of the manufacturer?

Marks Calib was dead right that the Lesjofers make do not do self leveller type when I went into this one today.

I get my replacement trade card from Autobahnstormers soon - will that qualify for discounts from CAT do you think?

Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Lazydocker on 19 March 2009, 22:33:28
AFAIK the only source for self levelling springs is VX but...

I have fitted standard  springs to the rear of my saloon with S/L shocks and have found no averse effects in over 2k miles. If anything they have made the back end slightly more stable! All I have to do now is get under there with some WD40 to sort the annoying squeak!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 19 March 2009, 22:41:59
The CAT Tunbridge Wells people took my reg and then read back V6 3.2 Self Levelling as being my spec - so hope that this is a good source - sounds promising.

Only one way to find out I suppose and give it a go when I get back from next weeks trip.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 20 March 2009, 08:36:27
When they arrive can you post the the make and part number please.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 20 March 2009, 15:30:17
They will arrive on Monday week - manufacturer is Boge ZF I believe
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 20 March 2009, 15:53:24
Quote
They will arrive on Monday week - manufacturer is Boge ZF I believe

Very interesting as when I was researching this, Boge also did not do the springs for the self levelers.

Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 20 March 2009, 16:03:50
Just spoke to ZF in UK. Part number 25E490 is definintely for 3.2 V6 2001 onwards self levelling.

Apparently this is separately sourced and not from Boge direct in Germany. This may explain why you did not trace it before.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Lazydocker on 20 March 2009, 16:55:00
I couldn't get Boge S/L springs but fitted the standard ones as I know they're a good make!

I'll try and get a look at the P/N on mine and see if they're the ones you've been supplied!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: pscocoa on 20 March 2009, 17:01:24
Thanks - they said they were not Boge direct but separately sourced - so I assume made for Boge but not by them.

Await your info.
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 20 March 2009, 18:05:24
Well interestingly, I have just been to my local friendly dealer and was brousing through thier KYB trade catalogue.....

They had a rear spring for Omegas with self leveling.

The KYB part number was RJ6227 at 35+vat each

How available these are I dont know but it is listed in the KYB ccatalouge....although its not obvious!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: jonathanh on 20 March 2009, 20:28:38
Quote
Well interestingly, I have just been to my local friendly dealer and was brousing through thier KYB trade catalogue.....

They had a rear spring for Omegas with self leveling.

The KYB part number was RJ6227 at 35+vat each

How available these are I dont know but it is listed in the KYB ccatalouge....although its not obvious!

just looked at the catalogue online: you're spot on but it is not at all obvious!!!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 20 March 2009, 22:22:34
My local dealer called his KYB supplier, they confirmed they are special order and still listed and the price.

This is good news I feel for Elite owners!
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: jjleonard on 22 March 2009, 18:47:20
Does anyone know where I can source the KYB 6227 online? Just discovered I need a new spring on the drivers side.  >:(
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: VXL V6 on 22 March 2009, 19:35:05
Quote
Does anyone know where I can source the KYB 6227 online? Just discovered I need a new spring on the drivers side.  >:(

http://www.buypartsby.co.uk/newenq.php

Just fill in the enquiry form and they'll email you back in a couple of days.

 :y
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Chopsdad on 22 March 2009, 22:48:09
Since the garage changed my springs last year my car sits 25mm low at the back and consequently 25mm high at the front. I've just been under and they are KYB - albeit they are fitted upside down. ::)

They've ordered in some more for this Thursday and some heavy duty ones from both KYB.

They were originally ordered from the reg no - should I switch makes or try the heavy duty ones?  :-?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 19 June 2009, 14:48:29
Quote
(http://images.omegaowners.com/images/guides/rear_spring_replace/IMG_0197.jpg)

And added to the guide
Are these going on a saloon or estate?
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 19 June 2009, 14:50:01
the pic of the marks springs I meant
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Jimbob on 19 June 2009, 14:50:15
Quote
Quote
(http://images.omegaowners.com/images/guides/rear_spring_replace/IMG_0197.jpg)

And added to the guide
Are these going on a saloon or estate?

The guide was for a saloon

Estate is different - you wont remove the shock at the bottom without tearing the rubber, need to release it from the top
Title: Re: Rear Springs
Post by: Dave Elite on 19 June 2009, 14:52:11
Thanks, so KYB RJ6226 is for a saloon?