BC Racing D-107E-BR

BC Racing BR Series Coilovers Extreme Low Instruction Manual

Model: D-107E-BR | Brand: BC Racing

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your BC Racing BR Series Extreme Low Coilovers, designed for the 2003-2009 Nissan Fairlady 350Z. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure proper setup and safe operation.

Key Features:

  • Mono-tube shock design for consistent performance.
  • 30 levels of damping force adjustment, allowing fine-tuning of compression and rebound.
  • Separately adjustable ride height for optimal vehicle stance and handling.
  • Part Number: D-107E-BR.
BC Racing BR Series Coilovers for Nissan 350Z

Image: BC Racing BR Series Coilovers, showing the mono-tube design and adjustable components.

Setup and Installation

Professional installation is highly recommended. Improper installation can lead to vehicle damage or personal injury. Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and properly secured before beginning any work.

Required Tools:

  • Vehicle jack and jack stands
  • Socket wrench set
  • Open-end wrench set
  • Torque wrench
  • Spring compressor (if applicable for disassembly of OEM struts)
  • Penetrating oil
  • Anti-seize lubricant

Installation Steps:

  1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels.
  2. Lift and Secure: Using a hydraulic jack, lift the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding. Remove the wheels.
  3. Remove OEM Suspension:
    • Locate and disconnect any brake lines, ABS sensor wires, or sway bar links attached to the OEM strut assembly.
    • Unbolt the lower mounting bolts connecting the strut to the knuckle.
    • Access the upper strut mounts from the engine bay or trunk. Unbolt the top hat nuts.
    • Carefully remove the entire OEM strut assembly from the vehicle.
  4. Install BC Racing Coilovers:
    • Ensure the new coilovers are set to a preliminary ride height and damping setting.
    • Insert the top hat of the new coilover into the upper mounting location and loosely secure with nuts.
    • Align the lower mounting bracket of the coilover with the knuckle and insert the bolts. Do not fully tighten yet.
    • Reconnect any brake lines, ABS sensor wires, or sway bar links.
    • Once all components are aligned, tighten all mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque settings. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific torque values.
  5. Repeat for all Wheels: Follow the same procedure for the remaining wheels.
  6. Final Checks:
    • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
    • Bounce the vehicle a few times to settle the suspension.
    • Check for any clearance issues with tires, brake lines, or other components.
    • Perform a wheel alignment immediately after installation to prevent premature tire wear and ensure safe handling.

Operating Instructions and Adjustments

Damping Force Adjustment:

Your BC Racing BR Series Coilovers feature 30 levels of damping force adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune the ride comfort and handling characteristics. The adjustment knob is typically located at the top of the shock absorber shaft (for front coilovers) or at the bottom/top (for rear coilovers, depending on design).

  • Softer Setting: Turn the adjustment knob counter-clockwise. This provides a more comfortable ride, suitable for daily driving.
  • Firmer Setting: Turn the adjustment knob clockwise. This provides a stiffer ride, enhancing handling and responsiveness for spirited driving or track use.
  • Recommendation: Always adjust damping in small increments (1-2 clicks) and test drive the vehicle to feel the changes. Ensure both sides of the vehicle (front left/right, rear left/right) are set to the same damping level.

Ride Height Adjustment:

The ride height can be adjusted independently of spring preload. This allows you to achieve your desired vehicle stance without compromising shock travel or ride quality.

  1. Loosen Locking Collars: With the vehicle safely lifted and wheels removed, locate the lower locking collars on the coilover body. Loosen them using the provided spanner wrenches.
  2. Adjust Height: Rotate the main body of the coilover (or the lower mount, depending on design) to raise or lower the vehicle.
    • To Lower: Rotate the coilover body clockwise (or lower mount upwards).
    • To Raise: Rotate the coilover body counter-clockwise (or lower mount downwards).
  3. Tighten Locking Collars: Once the desired ride height is achieved, securely tighten the locking collars to prevent movement.
  4. Verify: Lower the vehicle and measure the ride height at all four corners. Adjust as necessary to achieve an even stance.
  5. Important: After any significant ride height adjustment, a wheel alignment is mandatory.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your coilovers.

  • Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect coilovers for any signs of leaks, damage, or loose components. Check rubber boots for tears.
  • Cleaning: Keep the coilover bodies and threads clean, especially in environments with salt, dirt, or debris. Use mild soap and water.
  • Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of anti-seize lubricant to the threads of the coilover body and locking collars during initial installation and periodically thereafter to prevent seizing and allow for easier adjustments.
  • Torque Checks: Re-check all mounting bolts and nuts for proper torque after the first 500 miles and then every 5,000-10,000 miles.
  • Alignment: Ensure regular wheel alignments are performed, especially after any suspension adjustments.

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Uneven Ride Height Improper height adjustment; uneven spring preload; vehicle not settled. Re-measure and adjust ride height at all corners. Ensure vehicle is settled. Check spring preload.
Excessive Noise (clunking, squeaking) Loose mounting bolts; worn bushings; improper installation; damaged components. Inspect all mounting points and tighten to spec. Check bushings for wear. Re-evaluate installation. Contact support if components are damaged.
Poor Ride Quality (too harsh/soft) Incorrect damping settings; incorrect spring rates; improper tire pressure. Adjust damping force. Verify correct spring rates for your application. Check tire pressure.
Oil Leaks from Shock Body Damaged seal; manufacturing defect. Discontinue use and contact BC Racing customer support for warranty or repair.

Specifications

Feature Detail
Brand BC Racing
Model BR Series Extreme Low (D-107E-BR)
Vehicle Compatibility 2003-2009 Nissan Fairlady 350Z
Shock Design Mono-tube
Damping Adjustment 30 levels (compression/rebound)
Ride Height Adjustment Separately adjustable
Auto Part Position Front, Rear
Material Aluminum
Item Weight 45 pounds
UPC 689750115341

Warranty and Support

Specific warranty details are not provided in this document. For information regarding product warranty, technical support, or replacement parts, please refer to the official BC Racing website or contact their customer service directly.

BC Racing Official Website: www.bcracing-na.com (Example link, actual link may vary)

Always provide your product model number (D-107E-BR) and purchase date when contacting support.

© 2023 BC Racing. All rights reserved. Information subject to change without notice.