Dobinson IMs.

This is a shot in the dark but I’m wondering if I’ve maxed out my preload. I have a lean and wonder if I can adjust the drivers side to correct it. I checked and the preload is the same in both sides. My measurements are 22 3/4” on the drivers side and 23 1/4” on the passenger side. I don’t have the capability of taking the strut off and measuring the way dobinsons advises. I’ll post the pick below of the drivers side. Thanks.

Note: Front Springs: C59-302 Front Shocks: IMS59-50574

 

That's the beauty of adjustable coilovers. They're adjustable... Do you have the spanner wrench, or whatever they call the tool to adjust?

 

I do. Both sides are preloaded the same. I’m wondering if adding more preload to the drivers side would be ok.

 

It's either that or you add a spacer. I don't really think adding 1/2" more pre-load is going to be noticeable. Way easier that adding a spacer too.

 

Since it's 1/2" off you'll only need a 1/4".

Honestly I'd get a .25" lean correction spacer.

 

Why not lower the passenger side 1/4"?

 

Looking to get/keep approximately 3.5” lift.

 

I bought my IMS front shocks as an assembled coilover, set for 2.5 in of lift. I added weight over time and decided to add a little pre-load to account for then sag.

What I found interesting is that when I raised the coil seat 1/4 inch on the driver’s, the ride height on both sides came up, nearly equally! I’m guessing the sway bar had something to do with that.

Just a heads up on the spanner wrenches…they are not meant to be used with an assembled coil over. In other words, you have to take them off and take them apart. The spanners are just to crack the two locknuts loose.


If you try to add preload with the spring on, you’ll damage the threads.

 

Thank you. That’s interesting that both sides went up with the adjustment. One thing I’ve learned that it seems suspension is not an exact science. I might just add a 1/4 or 3/8” spacer and call it good. I have two garages saying there are enough threads for a 3/8” spacer to fit. And another one says only enough room for a 1/4”. I’ll post a pic when all is complete.

 

Dobinsons makes a spacer that is made just for your purpose.