This topic again....

[DoctorBob]

first major post on the forum!
apologies in advance for this query as I know the following subject is oft discussed on forums - however I am in a quandary about the potential wheels/suspension choice for my t6.1 California on order:
based on some feedback after searching:
- the Official OEM 30% lowering springs range from fine/bit firmer/terrible all at the same time
- the choice of wheel size - 18” are the biggest you should go whereas 19” and 20”s are both the devils work whilst also being fine...

I realise it’s personal choice - but I wonder if anyone could provide a similar experience as an example - e.g. in my experience/opinion it drives like a golf gti/defender/milk float etc

It’s all about aesthetics I know: aesthetically, I think a tad lower and 20” wheels would look great and not compromise the capabilities of the van to much (ride height/daily use etc) and although I’ve only ever driven standard Cali’s I’ve hired, the ride with a 30% spring/20inch wheel combo will be firm but not diabolical is my thinking... am i about right?

thanks in advance for the insight!

 

[cgtmiles]

Vw 30mm spring + camper conversion (or indeed heavy Cali) = very bad thing

 

[cgtmiles]

@CaliChris

 

[T5 XTY]

Hi. Dont know if this helps.... I had a t32 kombi sportline on 18s lowered on h+r springs (40mm drop). I thought the ride was ok!...... Yesterday i traded her in for another t32 on 20s lowered on eibach coilovers..... Omg the difference!!!! So smooth! I was expecting harsh as on 20s (265x40x20tyres) but not at all. Night and day difference compared to my old set up. I understand its only a kombi and not a cali but id say bilstein or eibach coilovers not springs, regarding wheels..... Love the 20s!
Hope this helps

 

[The Van Cave]

first major post on the forum!
apologies in advance for this query as I know the following subject is oft discussed on forums - however I am in a quandary about the potential wheels/suspension choice for my t6.1 California on order:
based on some feedback after searching:
- the Official OEM 30% lowering springs range from fine/bit firmer/terrible all at the same time
- the choice of wheel size - 18” are the biggest you should go whereas 19” and 20”s are both the devils work whilst also being fine...

I realise it’s personal choice - but I wonder if anyone could provide a similar experience as an example - e.g. in my experience/opinion it drives like a golf gti/defender/milk float etc

It’s all about aesthetics I know: aesthetically, I think a tad lower and 20” wheels would look great and not compromise the capabilities of the van to much (ride height/daily use etc) and although I’ve only ever driven standard Cali’s I’ve hired, the ride with a 30% spring/20inch wheel combo will be firm but not diabolical is my thinking... am i about right?

thanks in advance for the insight!

Springs alone for lowering are terrible, they really are. If you only want 30mm lowering you don’t need height adjustable coil overs, you’ll be wasting money. Have a chat with Steve @CRS Performance , throw some 20s on and Steve will fit you some quality Sport shocks and springs that will control all the Cali weight, improve the ride and work with the 20s.

 

[CaliChris]

@CaliChris

I've already offered my advice and recent experience to @DoctorBob on the Cali forum!

 

[JasonW]

I've got a 4M with full camper conversion.. Slightly on the heavier side with 70 litre water tank underslung and solid oak worktop etc

Springs alone won't get you the ride comfort you dream of...

I went with CRS and had the Koni adaptive shocks and lowering springs on 19's... Big big difference and miles better driveabilty and comfort.

 

[VanDamMan]

Hi @DoctorBob ....T32 204 lots of Silent coat ( heavy when empty) ....anyway sorry....I’m on 18’s with 30mm sportline springs oem but @CRS Performance ..did my suspension upgrade Koni adjustable....so I can throw it around and it stick like **** to the road
As theT32 has a stiffer anti roll bar and coupled with stiffer 30mm springs the Koni's work really Well..but that may only apply to the T32
but personally for me it’s made my drive a dream......for me it’s not just about Looks it’s comfort ( having had 20’s on X3 M sport ..comfort it was not )

 

[Chilli Jam Vans]

Picked up the 199 4M after fitment of it's new Eibach Comfort 2 Springs today and gave it a blast along the coast road between Portreath and St. Agnes here in West Cornwall . Stopped at one of my favourite view points overlooking Porthtowan . The Eibach's are a vast improvement over standard springs and although ride is a little bit firmer , comfort is not compromised in any way plus cornering is just on another level. Great service from Brett and the team at Chilli Jam Vans who supplied and fitted the Eibachs. Next job is a set of black side bars , some additional tint on tailgate and passenger glass and full sound deadening , insulation and lining package.

Living the Dream in West Cornwall .....

boxerdog1, Customers post in general chat. Maybe relevant to someone on here?

45mm drop on the front down from 470mm. T32 DSG 4Motion. Will probably drop a little further once settled. Rears are adjusted 20mm higher to accommodate extra payloads. Will re-adjust if required when it's back in for some sound proofing and carpet + styling in a few weeks time.