Hotchkis vs. Progress Springs?

[Psychobroker]

I've used the search feature extensively, but still cannot decide which springs/suspension setup I eventually want to go with. I've found a lot of good feedback for Hotchkis' springs, while both positive and negative for Progress. However, ptuning's combo deal (progress springs, FD STB and Progress anti-roll bar) for ~$300 seems like a great deal to me. I also like the increased drop progress gives, but I don't want to sacrafice ride and/or craftsmanship quality.I'd like to hear from anyone with experience with either brand, especially anyone who made the switch from one to the other. I also read that Hotchkis offers a combo package as well, but wasn't able to find it on their website (looks like an adjustable STB for $425?? eh.. )Thanks in advance.

[shibaman]

I have the Horchkis springs and sway bars and are impressed on how they have transformed the car. The hotchkis springs are stiffer in the rear helping to conrtol understeer.The springs are plenty low,- more than they say. They are tuned to work on your car!!!! I believe that the Progress and others have spring rates the same at front/back.

[Triton]

I have the Hotchkis springs and I can't wait to get them installed. I was also unsure about which springs to get and decided on the Hotchkis springs because of the positive feedback. I also like the amount of drop you get with the Hotchkis springs. You may also want to consider Tein springs. CaCathy13 has them and I got a chance to drive her Vibe at the Michigan rally and they were really nice. I think she said she paid $143 or something close to that.

[Psychobroker]

Thanks for the quick replies . Are you talking about Tein STech'sI've seen pics of CaCathy's Vibe, and it looks sweet, but per Tein's website, they only come with a 1-year warranty against defects and sag, while Progress Tech offers a lifetime warranty...decisions, decisions I know it sounds like I might have already made my decision on Progress, but that's not at all the case. I can buy Tein's for $125 w/ s&h..or Eibachs, or even Hotchkis'. Also, would someone be able to explain to me the difference between progressive and linear springs? spring rates (the numbers)?PS Attached is Progress' '03 catalogue

Attached files ProgressTechSpringsCatalogue.pdf (437.3 KB) 

[MadBill]

Quote>Also, would someone be able to explain to me the difference between progressive and linear springs? spring rates (the numbers)?A linear spring has a constant rate, that is each additional unit of load compresses it the same amount, for example 100 lb. for each inch. A progressive spring gets stiffer as it is compressed, e.g., to compress it one inch takes 90 lb., the second inch takes 100 lb, the third 115, etc. Progressive springs can give a softer ride while maintaing the handling of stiffer spring, but the non-linear nature can affect the handling balance, e.g. if the rear spring gets into the stiffer region before the front, it will take more than its share of the cornering load and the rear of the car may tend to slide out. Like so many things, it's a trade-off...

[dmitri]

i have progress springs. Their great, i love them. About a 2.5 drop.

[rasermon]

Triton GT, I was just going over the warranty policy for the Hotchis springs. They warranty there springs for the term of 36 months from the date of purchase.

[Psychobroker]

Thanks MadBill

[Triton]

Thanks for looking that up rasermon! That's good to know.