Installed A-Spec Suspension TL-S - Pics
05-07-2008, 10:08 PM
#1
Racer
Thread Starter
Installed A-Spec Suspension TL-S - Pics
I installed the A-Spec suspension on my Type S (auto). The install took about 5 hours, but I spent about 3 of those hours cursing at the rear seat.
I chose the 6-speed version of the A-Spec suspension because some posters have reported that the front end did not drop enough. The following are the before & after measurements:
Stock Type S suspension: Front 26.75" Rear 27.00"
A-Spec suspension 200B: Front 26.00" Rear 26.50"
So I dropped 3/4" front and 1/2" rear. I expect it to drop a bit more as it settles.
The A-Spec suspension is noticeably firmer than the Type S suspension, but still tolerable. I think the shocks are a bit soft for these springs, but that may be a personal preference. The car corners a bit flatter and there is less dive when braking. It seems to have a bit less torque steer under hard acceleration, but not a huge difference. Overall I am very satisfied. I got the drop I wanted and it handles much better.
I got some baseline skidpad #s of .83 (I have the all-season tires) so I will post the new skidpad numbers when I get a chance to do a few runs. I also plan on installing new wheels and tires next week, along with a Progress rear sway bar.
Front Type S
Front A-Spec -3/4"
Rear Type S
Rear A-Spec -1/2"
As you can see in the pics, the drop doesn't seem dramatic, but it is much more obvious in person. But you can see that it has a bit more rake from the larger drop up front.
Stock Type S suspension
After A-Spec suspension install
Stock Type S suspension
After A-Spec suspension install
I chose the 6-speed version of the A-Spec suspension because some posters have reported that the front end did not drop enough. The following are the before & after measurements:
Stock Type S suspension: Front 26.75" Rear 27.00"
A-Spec suspension 200B: Front 26.00" Rear 26.50"
So I dropped 3/4" front and 1/2" rear. I expect it to drop a bit more as it settles.
The A-Spec suspension is noticeably firmer than the Type S suspension, but still tolerable. I think the shocks are a bit soft for these springs, but that may be a personal preference. The car corners a bit flatter and there is less dive when braking. It seems to have a bit less torque steer under hard acceleration, but not a huge difference. Overall I am very satisfied. I got the drop I wanted and it handles much better.
I got some baseline skidpad #s of .83 (I have the all-season tires) so I will post the new skidpad numbers when I get a chance to do a few runs. I also plan on installing new wheels and tires next week, along with a Progress rear sway bar.
Front Type S
Front A-Spec -3/4"
Rear Type S
Rear A-Spec -1/2"
As you can see in the pics, the drop doesn't seem dramatic, but it is much more obvious in person. But you can see that it has a bit more rake from the larger drop up front.
Stock Type S suspension
After A-Spec suspension install
Stock Type S suspension
After A-Spec suspension install
05-07-2008, 10:25 PM
#2
Instructor
Join Date: Aug 2007
Posts: 151
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Do you get the Type S Manual A-Spec, or the base model Manual A-Spec? Some where suggesting that using the A-Spec for the base Manual would give an even bigger drop because the Type-S is heavier?
05-07-2008, 10:29 PM
#3
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by jokerunm
Do you get the Type S Manual A-Spec, or the base model Manual A-Spec? Some where suggesting that using the A-Spec for the base Manual would give an even bigger drop because the Type-S is heavier?
05-07-2008, 10:41 PM
#4
i did the measurements like you also... from 30 mins after i got them install until yesterday. (which is about 2 1/2 weeks already) its still the same 26inchs. and my rear is sitting higher then my front.
props for writing this up!!
what kind wheels ur gona get??
props for writing this up!!
what kind wheels ur gona get??
05-07-2008, 10:45 PM
#5
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by lenjaiah
i did the measurements like you also... from 30 mins after i got them install until yesterday. (which is about 2 1/2 weeks already) its still the same 26inchs. and my rear is sitting higher then my front.
props for writing this up!!
what kind wheels ur gona get??
props for writing this up!!
what kind wheels ur gona get??
I ordered Axis Hiros in Hyper Silver 18x8.5
05-07-2008, 10:49 PM
#6
its 26" in the front and in between 26.40... 26.50... in the rear.. i hoping it will drop MORE after a week or so but it didnt...
hiros! nice! would the drop be good enought for them?
hiros! nice! would the drop be good enought for them?
05-07-2008, 10:56 PM
#7
Instructor
Join Date: Aug 2007
Posts: 151
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
3674 type S auto
3559 type S manual
--------------------------
115 lbs
3591 Base w Navi auto 2006
3499 Base w Navi manual 2006
-----------------------------------------
92 lbs
3636 Base w Navi auto 2008 - Don't know where the weight gain came from...did the new tranny pass over to the base models as well?
Anyways
3674 type S auto
3499 Base w Navi manual 2006
----------------------------------------
175 lbs that's 4.8% of the car. hmmmm.
115 lbs difference between Type S Auto and Type S Manual
-----------------------------------------
60 lbs
Gosh I wish someone used a base Manual TL A-Spec setup on an Auto Type S so I can see the drop....I don't see a drop much more then what you got though....I'd say the back stays the same on all of them ~1/2 inch and the front ranges from ~1/2 inch to maybe a shade under ~1 .
3559 type S manual
--------------------------
115 lbs
3591 Base w Navi auto 2006
3499 Base w Navi manual 2006
-----------------------------------------
92 lbs
3636 Base w Navi auto 2008 - Don't know where the weight gain came from...did the new tranny pass over to the base models as well?
Anyways
3674 type S auto
3499 Base w Navi manual 2006
----------------------------------------
175 lbs that's 4.8% of the car. hmmmm.
115 lbs difference between Type S Auto and Type S Manual
-----------------------------------------
60 lbs
Gosh I wish someone used a base Manual TL A-Spec setup on an Auto Type S so I can see the drop....I don't see a drop much more then what you got though....I'd say the back stays the same on all of them ~1/2 inch and the front ranges from ~1/2 inch to maybe a shade under ~1 .
Trending Topics
05-07-2008, 10:59 PM
#8
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by lenjaiah
its 26" in the front and in between 26.40... 26.50... in the rear.. i hoping it will drop MORE after a week or so but it didnt...
hiros! nice! would the drop be good enought for them?
hiros! nice! would the drop be good enought for them?
05-07-2008, 11:05 PM
#9
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by jokerunm
I'd say the back stays the same on all of them ~1/2 inch and the front ranges from ~1/2 inch to maybe a shade under ~1 .
So if you were to put a base 6-speed A-Spec on a Type S auto, the front may drop even more than an 1", the rear would stay at 1/2" and that would look strange.
05-07-2008, 11:54 PM
#10
Instructor
Join Date: Aug 2007
Posts: 151
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by flydog
So if you were to put a base 6-speed A-Spec on a Type S auto, the front may drop even more than an 1", the rear would stay at 1/2" and that would look strange.
05-10-2008, 11:47 AM
#13
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by hitech
any update yet..cuz i just ordered the a-spec for my 08 tl-s too...i was wondering did it settle more or not...and how is the ride so far..thanks
The ride seems to have smoothed out, so maybe the shocks needed to break in. It was a little jiggly at first, but now its great.
05-10-2008, 01:18 PM
#14
Ur gonna like the suspension...I'm happy with mine.
Some people hate on them because the drop is minor. But if u want a crazy drop then people should get something else.
I think you made the best choice and you haven't screwed with its resale value.
Some people hate on them because the drop is minor. But if u want a crazy drop then people should get something else.
I think you made the best choice and you haven't screwed with its resale value.
05-10-2008, 02:27 PM
#15
Intermediate
Join Date: Aug 2005
Age: 45
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by flydog
A little bit. Fronts are both 25 7/8 and rears are 26 1/2 (L) 26 3/4 (R).
The ride seems to have smoothed out, so maybe the shocks needed to break in. It was a little jiggly at first, but now its great.
The ride seems to have smoothed out, so maybe the shocks needed to break in. It was a little jiggly at first, but now its great.
wow thanks for the response..well i can't wait for my a-spec susp.and a-spec kit to come in and install it myself...i wish the rear is drop a little more like 26 with be right..did you installed it yourself? and did you get a align yet? thanks
05-10-2008, 04:19 PM
#16
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by hitech
wow thanks for the response..well i can't wait for my a-spec susp.and a-spec kit to come in and install it myself...i wish the rear is drop a little more like 26 with be right..did you installed it yourself? and did you get a align yet? thanks
You could always install a huge amp and 4 12" subs in the trunk. That would get you down a full 1"
05-12-2008, 06:36 PM
#20
Instructor
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Bay Area
Age: 39
Posts: 183
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
anyone know how much would you need to pay the dealer to install this for you? i wonder if u can get a loaner for the day :p? something like the 09 TSX or 09 TL if i do this at the end of year ^-^;
05-12-2008, 07:45 PM
#22
Racer
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by 08WDP
anyone know how much would you need to pay the dealer to install this for you? i wonder if u can get a loaner for the day :p? something like the 09 TSX or 09 TL if i do this at the end of year ^-^;
08-17-2008, 09:53 AM
#23
8th Gear
Join Date: May 2008
Age: 49
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I've posted previously with no prevail. But reading all these posts maybe you guys can help. I have a 07' TL-S that I want to drop! I've been researching KYB, H&R, but mainly the Eibach Pro-Kit springs for my ride, but people say my struts will go out earlier. So I was thinking of getting the "Pro-System" thats the "precise balance combination of dampers, sports springs, and bump stops, designed and tuned to work as an integrated system" (website quote) Honestly I don't want to jack my "ish" up! I just want to lower it without sacrificing my struts later on, and perhaps add better handling. I freakin love my TL-S, I only drive it on sunny days, the 02' Honda Accord SE is the rainy day car. I think it's too late for A-SPEC package at the dealership. What do I do?
08-17-2008, 10:29 AM
#24
Originally Posted by MESLER
I've posted previously with no prevail. But reading all these posts maybe you guys can help. I have a 07' TL-S that I want to drop! I've been researching KYB, H&R, but mainly the Eibach Pro-Kit springs for my ride, but people say my struts will go out earlier. So I was thinking of getting the "Pro-System" thats the "precise balance combination of dampers, sports springs, and bump stops, designed and tuned to work as an integrated system" (website quote) Honestly I don't want to jack my "ish" up! I just want to lower it without sacrificing my struts later on, and perhaps add better handling. I freakin love my TL-S, I only drive it on sunny days, the 02' Honda Accord SE is the rainy day car. I think it's too late for A-SPEC package at the dealership. What do I do?
http://neuspeed.com/products/product_details.asp?app=53|AC&type=2<ype=ns_impo rt&p_id=1935
And yes, 7th Gen Honda accord suspension is the same as TL
Thread on 'zine about supercup kit
https://acurazine.com/forums/car-parts-sale-361/sony-minidisc-player-173876/
08-17-2008, 04:32 PM
#25
8th Gear
Join Date: May 2008
Age: 49
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
So the Eibach Pro-Kit would be ok? How would I know when my shocks are going out? I also want to improve the handling so that why I was saying I want to get the Pro-System. What do I do?
08-17-2008, 10:22 PM
#28
One on the right for me
Originally Posted by flydog
Yours is 26" all around? Strange. Maybe my rears will drop more.
I ordered Axis Hiros in Hyper Silver 18x8.5
I ordered Axis Hiros in Hyper Silver 18x8.5
08-18-2008, 01:59 PM
#30
Originally Posted by MESLER
So the Eibach Pro-Kit would be ok? How would I know when my shocks are going out? I also want to improve the handling so that why I was saying I want to get the Pro-System. What do I do?
Originally Posted by flydog
Was there really a need to hijack this thread for this question?
08-20-2008, 08:03 PM
#31
2007 TL TYPE S ASM
I was quoted $650. at Acura of the Desert (Cathedral City, CA) for the A-spec suspension (matching the eBay price) and $400. to install it. I thought that was reasonable and will follow thru with it within the next month or so.
08-21-2008, 07:37 PM
#32
Instructor
I highly recommend this suspension. I just installed it the other day (took 4 hours with help from a friend). Very easy install, just make sure you follow directions in reference to rear seat removal.
The best way to describe the ride is BMW-ish. Firm, but compliant. I did not care about a drop, but was concerned about handling. Fender gap now 3 fingers in front, 2 in back). This suspension is now capable of harnessing the power of the engine, as there is minimal squat/dive on accell/braking.
The best way to describe the ride is BMW-ish. Firm, but compliant. I did not care about a drop, but was concerned about handling. Fender gap now 3 fingers in front, 2 in back). This suspension is now capable of harnessing the power of the engine, as there is minimal squat/dive on accell/braking.
08-21-2008, 10:56 PM
#33
Racer
Thread Starter
08-22-2008, 04:54 AM
#36
A-spec steering wheel ftw
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Roslyn Heights, New York
Age: 37
Posts: 1,371
Likes: 0
Received 5 Likes
on
5 Posts
yea i've been using the A-spec suspension since 04 
i get a nice back massage on a daily basis; but when i really want to punch it i know my car isn't going to bounce around like those bobble heads;
i get a nice back massage on a daily basis; but when i really want to punch it i know my car isn't going to bounce around like those bobble heads;
10-30-2008, 12:54 AM
#37
So what is the update on this, Is it really worth upgrading the Type S Suspension to A-Spec ?
Your looking at about a 800.00 Investment installed, is it worth the money and how is the ride quality noticable difference over Stock Type S? I would have to assume so or Acura would have never made it?
What are your thoughts.
Your looking at about a 800.00 Investment installed, is it worth the money and how is the ride quality noticable difference over Stock Type S? I would have to assume so or Acura would have never made it?
What are your thoughts.
10-30-2008, 01:05 AM
#39
Really have no intrest in going aftermarket its always a headache.
Who upgraded there Type S to A-Spec and what are your thoughts. IS it that much better then Stock type S for the 800.00
Who upgraded there Type S to A-Spec and what are your thoughts. IS it that much better then Stock type S for the 800.00
10-30-2008, 04:32 AM
#40
05' AT SSM
Nice write up, good to have this kind of information with pictures of drop.
Personally i think this is a great idea for when your stock suspension takes a dive. Instead of replacing with stock, put in the A-spec. Me myself i would go with aftermarket coil-overs, but for those who want OEM parts this would be a good replacement for stock.
Personally i think this is a great idea for when your stock suspension takes a dive. Instead of replacing with stock, put in the A-spec. Me myself i would go with aftermarket coil-overs, but for those who want OEM parts this would be a good replacement for stock.