I have a 2012 TL AWD Techology package w/ 18"s. I want to get some 19" legends, but am wondering if a slight drop would enhance the look. Is this a big project and is it detrimental to the vehicle in any way? Are wheel spacers recommended as well?

I'm not a gear head, so please explain this to me like I'm stupid

 

Yea- a slight drop to kill the wheel gap will make the car look better. If you get RJ's you won't need spacers - they'll have the right offset for your ride. Rondy can recommend the right offset.

As for the drop your options are H&R Springs - cost like $250 and then add anywhere from $200-$500 for a place to install them.

The other option is coilovers - Tein and XLR8 has a coilover coming out. That will cost you around $900-$1000 with a similar install price. Benefits to coilovers is adjustable drop and adjustable damping (softness/stiffness of ride).

Hope that helps.

 

Cool. Thank you. Do the H&R springs compromise the ride at all? I'm a daily commuter, but I want my ride to look bad ass. I assume these "should" improve the cornering performance & what not?

Also, how do your 19's ride? I had 19's on my 335XI and the ride was jarring because there was so little rubber to absorb the bumps.

 

A drop would definitely enhance the look of the car as well as the handling. You can either go with springs or coilovers. you may also need to install camber kits depending on how low you go. when installed properly these things shouldn't harm the car, but you may have to change you driving style when going over bumps and driveways.

you shouldnt need spaces for your legends because ronjon wheels are designed to be further out than stock rims (offset).

 

Yes it will enhance the look but you should watch the drop height of the springs. H&R are good

Not to hijack this thread but does anyone know what drive torque wrench i should be using to torque lugs etc? 1/2" 3/8"?

 

I have a 1/2 inch torque wrench, and the socket i use is 22mm. I think that converts to 7/8th.

 

I have 20's in the summer time, I think the ride is fine - but I'm getting coilovers as part of the XLR8 group buy which will let me tune in my drop and adjust comfort.

 

Okay - need 1 final piece of advice. I'm planning to drop it with the sport springs. I think this will give it a much cooler look without looking like something from Fast & Furious. I'm sold on the RJ Legends. I like that they have the built in offset to minimize wheel gap.

Last question - will 18's look okay or do you think the 19's are a must have? I have a 2nd set of 18" Michelen stock tires hanging around, which is why I'd be inclined to buy 18" rims and use the tires. If anyone knows of a picture where i can see a 4G Tl with 18" and 19" legends, this may help me make up my mind easier.

Thanks again for all the help.

 

I really don't think you should get 18s they're gonna look too small with those tires just spend the extra and get the 19s trust me you'll be happier. Good luck!!!

 

Definitely don't go with 18's if you're upgrading - might as well go with 19. I think some 18's look OK with a drop (See Nexson's TL) - But a more aggressive offset is needed.

 

I have the same car that you have. I dropped mine with H&Rs. The ride is great, the appearance and driving dynamics are greatly improved as well. I did need a camber kit for the rear however. In reference to the wheels, if your already spending the cash, go with the 19s for sure.

 

simplest way to drop your car

 

Cool. Why did you need a camber kit?

Can you post pictures of what t looks like?

 

Haha - yup - it may not be the simplest, but it sure is the cheapest!

 

lol you can even cut it with the suspensions on the car.

ive seen it done before.. probably will cost someone around 40 bux to do..

all they do is put your car on a lift and cut your springs when its still mounted to the car.