Keep or throw TEMS?

[rayall01]

"An automotive suspension strut combines the primary function of a shock absorber (as a damper), with the ability to support sideways loads not along its axis of compression, somewhat similar to a sliding pillar suspension, thus eliminating the need for an upper suspension arm. This means that a strut must have a more rugged design, with mounting points near its middle for attachment of such loads."

We have shocks as struts take forces other than compression.

"Shock absorbers" are physically separated from the car's springs. A "strut," on the other hand, is a shock absorber with a spring that fits around it. Struts are common these days because they save space. But they cost more because the springs have to be removed before the "shock absorber" part of the strut can be replaced. And removing springs is a job that requires special tools"

 

[rayall01]

Also this quote:

"This seems to confuse a lot of people, so here's a quick explanation. Both shocks and struts serve the same purpose, to dampen the vibrations of a mechanical system. The difference is that a strut is an integral part of the suspension whereas a shock is just an add on damper. A strut supports the weight of the vehicle, and typically replaces the upper control arm and serves as pivots for the steering rack. A shock supports no significant weight and is installed solely to dampen the resonant vibrations of the spring."

Note typically. Meaning not in all cases.

 

[Poodles]

If you have a catastophic failure of a shock you'll manage, if you have a catastrophic failure of a strut you're screwed.

Regardless, we're off the point of this thread. TEMS is nice, yes. All the lowering springs out there are going to be stiffer than stock, some more than others.

 

[Supra469]

Rayall, Thanks foe explaining this even further.

The same to you Poodles for your explination, although the explination is not of course one bit cause like me, he too were confused so a lil explination helps make the decision that much easier as one can now understand what they are deciding on.

 

[Poodles]

Shock vs strut conversation it's just a technicality, just call them shock absorbers or dampeners.

TEMS in it's stock form is automatic, it's nice. With a rewire or controller you can take control and set it how you want, basicly doing the same as the Tein system, just not as sophisticated. Springs really should be matched to the dampeners, but none of the stuff on the market is really built that way.

 

[Turbo Habanero]

Personally, I recommend having someone else do it. I've heard it's a bitch.

yea i would but really cant afford to pay some one else to do it

 

[rayall01]

yea i would but really cant afford to pay some one else to do it

It's not that hard to do. Don't know why some say it's a bitch, but there are much harder things you can do, than replacing struts, and springs.

 

[honestabe]

I use a 1/2" breaker bar or an impact wrench (cordless in my case) and a couple basic hand tools that we all should have. You can rent spring compressors at any parts store for free, you just have to give them a $50~ deposit or you can go to Harbor Freight and buy your own spring compressors for $9 (what I did). It's very very easy to do and doesn't take that long. Paying someone else to do it would be a waste of money. It's comperable to changing your oil. I've done it 4 or 5 times so far and it really is a simple task.

 

[Poodles]

Just so you guys know, if you have upgraded swaybars and/or putting in shortened dampeners (mine are) then it's a royal PITA to get the suspension to droop enough. I had to disconnect my swaybars on one side to do it easier.

Also, in the back, do NOT grind the lower mount, it's a slide insert, just tap it flush with the opening and insert the assembly.

I also cleaned the bolts with a wire wheel and used antisieze. The front upper control arm bolt was a bit rusty inside, after cleaning I coated the entire length of it in antisieze. It all went back together far easier than taking it apart.

 

[Bri7man]

THROW!!! in street, then stomp on them and light on fire! :evil2:

Self adjusting nooblettes this is a SUPRA..... not a Lexus.

I dunno they're tight but fuck it I don't want em on my ride.

 

[Poodles]

Self adjusting nooblettes this is a SUPRA..... not a Lexus.

Actually, the MKIII was used as a test bed for techniques used in the Lexus line, it basicly is a Lexus.

 

[Bri7man]

Actually, the MKIII was used as a test bed for techniques used in the Lexus line, it basicly is a Lexus.

Dang that's like discovering the girl you're on a date with is a massage therapist and make a B-line home with her skipping the movies :love:

Actually..... I find no logic in the above statement in regards to the lexus-supra and retire my word maker for this thread.

Pssst...


Ditch the tems:biglaugh: