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Where does your mech get these ideas? If your shocks are letting the struts hit the bump stops, then old shocks would be causing damage.
If you get lowering springs, you will reduce shock travel. So you need siffer shocks to dampen the motion before the strut hits the bump stops. When you hit the bump stops the strut bearings take a shock load and the rubber in the upper mount can start to tear. A torn upper mount can take out the buffer washer that is below it.
When shocks let you whack the bump stops, you also are at risk of breaking the oil pad or trashing the VRK subframe lower brace which will inturn deform the subframe. You need shocks that will maintain ground clearances!
There have been cases where folks have put in lowering springs and then found that their (worn) stock shocks were not up to the task. Adding the cost of a second strut R&R to the cost makes the koni's installed later much more expensive.
Most folks have the koni's adjusted to a point where they are getting better control and a ride that is more comfortable than stock. I think that your mechanic is thinking of very firm shocks. I think that you can safely disregard the comments about new shocks causing problems if you go with the koni's.
With 17" tires, the suspension travel as delivered by side wall deflection is reduced. This increased the likelyhood of hitting the bump stops and also makes the wheels prone to getting bent... as many Viggen owners have found out. Lowering springs and 17 wheels will reduce the 'total effective' suspension travel by around 2".
So go for the shocks or shocks+springs and stick with your stock wheels for a while and see how you like the ride and control. You can always do the wheels and tires later. For more control, higher pressures will stiffen up your existing tires. if you find that getting harsh, then you will know what the 17" wheels will feel like with shorter and less compliant side walls.
The VRK would improve steering more than going to 17 wheels and rubber. The VRK will not affect body roll. Lowering springs will reduce body roll and lower the vehicle. The SAS rear bar will reduce body roll and improve steering.
Have a good look at your top mounts and replace with KYB's if in doubt.
95SET, 140000 miles: VRK, stock SE springs, koni's, SAS rear bar, Michelin Pilot Sports, stock 16" wheels, KYB upper mounts c/w bearings, standard rotors, EBC Green Stuff pads on the front. Corners like a dream...
posted by 207.43.19...
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