Ultimate Guide to Upgrading Your Nissan 350Z with an Adjustable Rear Suspension Kit for Enhanced Track Performance

Ultimate Guide to Upgrading Your Nissan 350Z with an Adjustable Rear Suspension Kit for Enhanced Track Performance

Why Upgrade Your Nissan 350Z’s Suspension?

When it comes to enhancing the track performance of your Nissan 350Z, one of the most critical upgrades you can make is to the suspension system. The stock suspension, while adequate for everyday driving, often falls short when it comes to the demands of track driving. Here’s why upgrading to an adjustable rear suspension kit can make a significant difference.

Understanding the Stock Suspension Limitations

The stock suspension on your Nissan 350Z is designed to balance comfort and handling for everyday driving. However, this balance can lead to compromises when you hit the track. The primary issues include excessive body roll, inadequate camber adjustment, and insufficient spring rates to handle the high-speed corners and braking zones found on a track.

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The Benefits of an Adjustable Rear Suspension Kit

An adjustable rear suspension kit addresses these limitations by providing several key benefits:

• Reduced Body Roll: Adjustable sway bars and coilovers can significantly reduce body roll, allowing your car to corner more flatly and maintain better traction.
• Customizable Camber: With adjustable control arms, you can fine-tune the camber settings to optimize tire contact and handling.
• Adjustable Spring Rates: Coilovers with adjustable spring rates enable you to tailor the suspension stiffness to your driving style and the specific demands of the track.

Choosing the Right Components for Your Upgrade

Upgrading your Nissan 350Z’s rear suspension involves several key components. Here’s a detailed look at what you need to consider:

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Coilovers

Coilovers are a crucial part of any suspension upgrade. They combine the spring and shock absorber into one unit, allowing for adjustable spring rates and ride height.

• Spring Rates: Higher spring rates are generally better for track performance but can make the ride harsher. Look for coilovers with adjustable spring rates to find the perfect balance.
• Ride Height: Lowering your car can improve handling by reducing the center of gravity, but make sure you don’t compromise ground clearance.
• Manufacturer Description: Brands like GKTech and STILLEN offer high-quality coilovers specifically designed for the Nissan 350Z. These kits often include detailed instructions and are engineered to work seamlessly with your vehicle.

Sway Bars

Sway bars (or anti-roll bars) play a vital role in reducing body roll during cornering.

• Adjustable Sway Bars: Look for sway bars that are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the stiffness to your driving needs. STILLEN adjustable sway bars are highly recommended for Nissan 350Z owners looking to enhance handling.
• Material and Construction: High-quality sway bars are typically made from durable materials like steel or aluminum. Ensure the sway bars you choose are designed to withstand the rigors of track driving.

Control Arms

Control arms are essential for maintaining proper alignment and camber settings.

• Upper and Lower Control Arms: Both upper and lower control arms should be adjustable to allow for precise camber adjustments.
• Material and Build Quality: High-quality control arms are often made from lightweight yet strong materials like aluminum or forged steel. GKTech offers a range of control arms designed specifically for the Nissan 350Z.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing an adjustable rear suspension kit is a significant undertaking but can be done with the right tools and a bit of patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Preparation

• Gather Tools and Parts: Make sure you have all the necessary tools and parts before starting the installation. This includes coilovers, sway bars, control arms, and any additional hardware.
• Consult Manufacturer Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific installation procedures.

Removing the Stock Suspension

• Raise the Car: Use a lift or jack stands to raise the car, ensuring the rear wheels are off the ground.
• Remove Stock Coilovers and Sway Bars: Carefully remove the stock coilovers and sway bars. Take note of any alignment marks or settings to help with the reinstallation process.

Installing the New Components

• Install Coilovers: Mount the new coilovers, ensuring they are securely fastened. Adjust the spring rates and ride height according to your preferences.
• Install Sway Bars: Install the new sway bars, making sure they are properly aligned and adjusted.
• Install Control Arms: Replace the stock control arms with the new adjustable ones. Adjust the camber settings to optimize tire contact.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Here are some practical tips and considerations to keep in mind when upgrading your Nissan 350Z’s rear suspension:

Camber Kit

• Why You Need It: A camber kit allows for precise camber adjustments, which are crucial for maintaining optimal tire contact and handling.
• How to Adjust: Use a camber gauge to adjust the camber settings. Aim for a slight negative camber to improve cornering performance.

Lowering Springs vs. Coilovers

• Lowering Springs: While lowering springs can lower the ride height, they do not offer the same level of adjustability as coilovers.
• Coilovers: Coilovers provide both lowering and adjustable spring rates, making them a more versatile choice for track performance.

Air Suspension vs. Coilovers

• Air Suspension: Air suspension systems offer a smooth ride and adjustable height but are generally not recommended for track use due to their lack of stiffness and stability.
• Coilovers: Coilovers are the preferred choice for track driving due to their high stiffness and adjustability.

Table: Comparison of Key Components

Quotes from Experts and Enthusiasts

• “Upgrading to an adjustable rear suspension kit was a game-changer for my Nissan 350Z. The reduction in body roll and the ability to fine-tune the camber settings have significantly improved my track times.” – John D., Nissan 350Z Owner
• “When it comes to track performance, the suspension is one of the most critical components. An adjustable rear suspension kit allows you to tailor the setup to your driving style and the specific demands of the track.” – Steve B., GKTech Engineer

Additional Upgrades to Consider

While an adjustable rear suspension kit is a significant upgrade, there are other components you can consider to further enhance your Nissan 350Z’s track performance:

Air Intake and Exhaust

• Cold Air Intake: A cold air intake can improve engine performance by drawing in cooler air, which is denser and contains more oxygen.
• High-Performance Exhaust: A high-performance exhaust system can reduce backpressure and increase horsepower.

Wheels and Tires

• Lightweight Wheels: Lightweight wheels can reduce unsprung weight, improving handling and braking performance.
• High-Performance Tires: High-performance tires with a good grip can significantly improve cornering and braking performance.

Upgrading your Nissan 350Z with an adjustable rear suspension kit is a comprehensive process that requires careful consideration and planning. By choosing the right components, following a detailed installation guide, and considering additional upgrades, you can significantly enhance your car’s track performance.

Remember, the key to a successful upgrade is to ensure that each component works in harmony with the others. With the right setup, you can transform your Nissan 350Z into a formidable track car that delivers exceptional handling and driving experience.

So, if you’re ready to take your driving to the next level, don’t hesitate to upgrade your rear suspension. Your car, and your track times, will thank you.