Acura RL Coilovers Guide - Lowering and Upgrading Suspension

Introduction to Acura RL Coilovers

Coilovers are a popular suspension modification for enthusiasts looking to improve the handling and performance of their Acura RL. The Acura RL was manufactured from 1996 to 2012 over two generations, known as the KA9 chassis code for the first generation made from 1996 to 2004 and the KB1 chassis code for the second generation made from 2005 to 2012. For Acura RL owners, especially those with the first generation KA9 models, coilovers offer an affordable way to upgrade the suspension for better handling and adjustability compared to stock.

What are Coilovers?

Coilovers replace the factory shock absorbers and springs as a complete assembly. They allow lowering the vehicle's ride height by using shorter springs. Coilovers also provide adjustable damping which controls how fast the suspension rebounds after hitting a bump. This improves handling and comfort by managing weight transfer and chassis movement.

The key advantages of coilovers over stock suspension components include:

• Height adjustability - Lower ride height improves handling by reducing body roll.
• Adjustable damping - Controls stiffness and rebound for better handling and a compliant ride.
• Increased performance - Overall improved responsiveness, cornering grip, and braking.
• Customization - Tailor handling characteristics to driver preference.
• Cost effective upgrade - Complete assemblies are affordable and easy to install.

Benefits of Coilovers for the Acura RL

The Acura RL already handles quite well in stock form. However, enthusiasts can take the car's performance to the next level with a set of coilovers. Benefits include:

• Lowered stance - Dropping ride height improves aesthetics and aerodynamics.
• Reduce body roll - Helen's cornering response and grip.
• Adjustable ride quality - Tune stiffness and rebound for ideal comfort and control.
• Custom lowered height - Lower within optimal range for looks, handling, and clearance.
• Retains shock travel - Maintains wheel control even when lowered.
• Affordable upgrade - Complete kits available under $1000.

While some choose coilovers for looks alone, optimized suspension geometry, stiffness, and damping will reward Acura RL drivers with a heightened connection to the road.

Considerations for Acura RL Coilovers

Acura RL owners looking into coilovers should keep the following considerations in mind:

• Lowering limits - Excessively lowering the RL risks impacting suspension geometry and may cause premature wear or interference issues. 1.5 inches lower should be safe for most.
• Wheel fitment - Wider lower offset wheels with stretched tires are popular with lowered cars. Check for clearance issues.
• Alignment - New alignment specs are needed after installing coilovers to correct geometry changes from altering ride height.
• Ride quality - Stiffer coilover settings can reduce everyday comfort. Adjust accordingly for street driving.
• Load capacity - Ensure coilover kit is designed to handle added weight from passengers and cargo for daily driving.

With a quality kit and proper installation, Acura RL coilovers can vastly improve handling dynamics without compromising ride quality or reliability when used as designed.

Popular Acura RL Coilover Brands

When selecting coilovers the brand and quality matters. Some popular manufacturers of coilovers for the 1996-2004 Acura RL include:

• BC Racing - Highly regarded coilover company offering RL applications with 30-way damping adjustability. Competitively priced.
• Megan Racing - Budget aftermarket brand with basicheight adjustable coilover kits for the RL.
• KW Suspensions - Premier German brand with RL Variant 3 coilovers providing height, rebound, and compression damping adjustability.
• Tein Flex Z - Japanese made coilovers allow independent adjustment of damping and ride height. 16-20 levels of damping.

It's hard to go wrong from reputable brands. Compare features, ride quality, warranty, and pricing to select the right coilover kit for your needs and budget.

Installing Acura RL Coilovers

Once purchased, coilovers can be installed DIY or by a professional shop. Some key steps for installing coilovers on an Acura RL include:

1. Raise vehicle and support securely on jack stands.
2. Remove wheels.
3. Disconnect shocks and springs from control arms and knuckles.
4. Remove OEM shocks and springs.
5. Assemble coilover per instructions with spring seated properly.
6. Install coilover assembly to control arm and spindle.
7. Reconnect sway bar ends.
8. Repeat steps on all four corners.
9. Set ride height adjuster to desired position.
10. Adjust damping according to road conditions.
11. Take vehicle for wheel alignment.

Use proper tools and safety precautions when working under a vehicle. A good spring compressor makes removing stock springs easier. The whole process can take 2-3 hours for amateurs or 1-2 hours for experienced installers. Taking time to properly install coilovers will pay off in enhanced performance and enjoyment of your Acura RL.

Maintaining and Tuning Acura RL Coilovers

Once installed, keep these tips in mind for maintaining and tuning coilovers on an Acura RL:

• Inspect dampers regularly for signs of leakage indicating worn seals or piston bands.
• Clean dirt buildup from height adjuster threads to prevent jamming.
• Check torque on mounting hardware and re-tighten as needed.
• Adjust ride height in small increments and alignment afterwards.
• Adjust damping settings based on road conditions and driving style.
• Send coilover assembly in for rebuilding if worn out.

Set aside time to learn the tuning range of your coilovers. Take notes on ride quality and handling at different settings. Adjusting ride height, compression damping, and rebound damping will make a big difference in your RL's behavior. Focus on balancing responsive handling with a comfortable ride.

Conclusion

The Acura RL is an excellent luxury sedan that becomes even more capable with a coilover suspension upgrade. Lowering ride height along with adjustable damping gives owners the ability to customize both aesthetics and performance. For RL enthusiasts looking for sharper handling, an improved connection with the road, and that slammed look, quality coilovers are a great modification.

FAQs

How much can I lower my Acura RL with coilovers?

Most coilover kits allow lowering the Acura RL between 1-3 inches. Lowering more than 2 inches starts to impact suspension geometry and drivability. A 1.5 inch drop is a good starting point for improved handling without compromising too much ground clearance.

Do I need adjustable damping on my RL coilovers?

Adjustable compression and rebound damping are highly recommended for tuning handling and ride quality. Budget fixed-damping coilover options may work OK, but adjustability lets you customize the suspension behavior better.

What tools do I need to install coilovers?

Basic hand tools, jack, jack stands, and a spring compressor are must-haves. An impact wrench makes removal of suspension bolts easier. Use a torque wrench to tighten parts to spec.

Will coilovers improve 1/4 mile times?

Coilovers help plant more power to the ground off the line with less wheel hop. Lowered center of gravity and weight transfer optimization can help acceleration. But other mods like stickier tires have a bigger impact on quarter mile times.

Do I need an alignment after installing coilovers?

Yes, an alignment is strongly recommended after installing coilovers. The new ride height and suspension geometry changes need realigning for proper handling, reduced tire wear, and safety.