Coil spring conversion

Dear friends,

I am in the process of converting my air suspension to a more hassle-free coil spring suspension. I am aware of the SLABS ecu programming after the conversion is done so as to eliminate the warning light on the dash board. However I have a couple of simple questions which some of you might be able to help me with...

1) Is it necessary to change the stock shock absorbers too, or can I just fit the new coil springs leaving the old shock absorbers? Are the original shock absorbers designed specifically for the air suspension, will they effect the ride if used with coil springs?

2) Can the compressor be completely removed from the vehicle prior to SLABS reprogramming?

On a separate note, what is the maximum tyre profile one can fit without the need of any modifications? The wheels are 18" alloys, currently fitted with 255/55R18 tyres, of which I already found 2 punctures at the same time in the garage. I am not used to low profile tyres so was considering a slight increase in the profile like 65 instead of 55 if possible.....

Looking forward for your comments, thanks

you should have bought a hassle-free D1 then ...converting the SLS to coils is a blasphemy

Go introduce yourself before you get replies you dont want.you will get more help and add a location.

cambridgecockney said:

Go introduce yourself before you get replies you dont want.you will get more help and add a location.

Click to expand...

:5biagree:

Hi Mazza, I'll answer your questions but you should know that it is normal on this and most car forums to go the the 'Introduce yourself' section before asking for help - just a matter of politeness really.

Anyway, to your questions:

1. The shocks will be OK with springs if they are in good order, otherwise replace as a matter of general maintenance;

2. The compressor function function can be de-activated by removing the appropriate fuseable link (40a from memory) in the engine fusebox; then the whole lot can be removed. This does not re-programme the SLABS unit, to turn any warning lights off.

Good luck

Dave