1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the installation, adjustment, and maintenance of your FAPO Adjustable Height Coilover Suspension Strut Lowering Kit. Designed to enhance your vehicle's handling performance and appearance, this kit offers a customizable lowering solution while maintaining a comfortable ride.
Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation or adjustment. Professional installation is highly recommended.
2. Compatibility
This FAPO Coilover Suspension Strut Lowering Kit is specifically designed for:
- Vehicle: Toyota Camry (XV40/ACV40)
- Model Years: 2007-2017
- IMPORTANT: This kit is NOT compatible with the SE VERSION of the Toyota Camry.
3. Components Overview
The FAPO Adjustable Height Coilover Suspension Strut Lowering Kit includes the following main components:
Figure 3.1: Complete FAPO Coilover Suspension Kit including front and rear coilovers, sway bar links, and adjustment wrenches.
Figure 3.2: Close-up of the included adjustment wrenches and sway bar links, essential tools for installation and height adjustment.
- Front Coilovers (2): Complete strut assemblies with springs, top mounts, and adjustable lower mounts.
- Rear Coilovers (2): Complete strut assemblies with springs, top mounts, and adjustable lower mounts.
- Sway Bar Links (2): Designed to maintain proper sway bar geometry after lowering.
- Adjustment Wrenches (2): Tools for adjusting the spring preload and overall ride height.
Each coilover features a mono-tube design for improved handling and a durable painted finish for enhanced rust resistance.
Figure 3.3: Diagram illustrating key components of a coilover, including the camber plate, high tension spring, dust cover, adjustable height collar, and mono-tube shock body.
Figure 3.4: The FAPO PS series coilovers, designed for cost performance, lowering vehicle height, and an improved comfortable driving experience.
4. Setup and Installation
Installation of coilover suspension systems requires specialized tools and automotive knowledge. It is strongly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified professional mechanic.
General Installation Steps (Professional Installation Recommended):
- Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted on a hoist or jack stands on a level surface. Disconnect the battery.
- Remove Old Suspension: Carefully remove the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) suspension components, including struts, springs, and associated hardware.
- Prepare New Coilovers: Before installation, adjust the initial ride height and spring preload settings as desired (refer to Section 5).
- Install New Coilovers: Mount the FAPO coilovers into the vehicle's suspension points. Ensure all bolts are torqued to manufacturer specifications.
- Install Sway Bar Links: Attach the new sway bar links to maintain proper geometry.
- Reassemble and Inspect: Reinstall wheels and lower the vehicle. Double-check all connections and ensure no components are binding.
- Alignment: After installation, a professional wheel alignment is mandatory to ensure proper handling, tire wear, and vehicle safety.
Failure to properly install the suspension system can lead to severe vehicle damage or personal injury.
5. Operating and Adjustment
The FAPO Coilover Kit allows for adjustable ride height and spring preload, enabling you to fine-tune your vehicle's stance and handling characteristics.
Height Adjustment:
The ride height can be adjusted by moving the lower spring seat lock up or down on the threaded shock body. This allows for a lowering range of approximately 1-3 inches from stock height.
- To lower the vehicle, turn the lower spring seat lock downwards.
- To raise the vehicle, turn the lower spring seat lock upwards.
- Use the provided adjustment wrenches to loosen and tighten the locking collars.
- Ensure both sides (front or rear) are adjusted equally to maintain balance.
Figure 5.1: Visual representation of vehicle height before and after lowering with the FAPO coilover kit, demonstrating the 1-3 inch adjustment range.
Spring Preload Adjustment:
Spring preload refers to the initial compression of the spring when the suspension is at full extension. The recommended spring preload is 7-10mm.
- Adjusting preload affects ride quality and initial suspension travel.
- Too much preload can result in a harsh ride; too little can lead to loose springs at full droop.
- Consult a professional for precise preload adjustments.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your FAPO coilover suspension kit.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect all suspension components for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Check for loose bolts or nuts.
- Cleanliness: Keep the coilover threads clean from dirt and debris. This is crucial for smooth height adjustments. A soft brush and mild soap can be used.
- Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of anti-seize lubricant to the coilover threads during initial installation and periodically thereafter to prevent seizing and facilitate future adjustments.
- Dust Boots: Ensure the dust covers/boots are intact and properly seated to protect the shock shaft from contaminants.
- Alignment Checks: After any significant height adjustment or every 12,000 miles (20,000 km), have your vehicle's wheel alignment checked and adjusted by a professional.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your coilover suspension.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven Ride Height | Incorrect height adjustment; uneven spring preload. | Re-measure and adjust height on both sides. Check spring preload. Perform wheel alignment. |
| Excessive Noise (Clunking/Squeaking) | Loose mounting bolts; worn bushings; spring binding; damaged components. | Inspect all mounting points and torque to spec. Check bushings for wear. Ensure springs are seated correctly. Contact support if components are damaged. |
| Harsh Ride Quality | Too much spring preload; incorrect damping settings (if applicable); tire pressure. | Reduce spring preload slightly. Check tire pressure. If damping is adjustable, try softer settings. |
| Difficulty Adjusting Height | Dirt/corrosion on threads; seized locking collars. | Clean threads thoroughly. Apply penetrating lubricant. Use appropriate force with wrenches. |
If you encounter issues not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the problem, please contact FAPO RACING customer support.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | FAPO RACING |
| Model Number | PS035810-41 |
| Compatible Vehicle | Toyota Camry (XV40/ACV40) 2007-2017 (NOT FIT SE VERSION) |
| Spring Rate (Front) | 8 kg/mm (448 lbs/inch) |
| Spring Rate (Rear) | 6 kg/mm (336 lbs/inch) |
| Spring Preload | 7-10mm |
| Spring Length (Front) | 200 mm |
| Spring Length (Rear) | 220 mm |
| Lowering Range | 1-3 inches |
| Design Type | Mono-Tube |
| Material | Aluminum, Spring Steel, Rubber |
| Exterior Finish | Painted (Anti-rust treatment) |
| Item Weight | 59.9 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 20 x 9 x 9 inches |
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your FAPO Adjustable Height Coilover Suspension Strut Lowering Kit, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official FAPO RACING website. Warranty terms typically cover manufacturing defects.
For technical assistance, installation queries, or troubleshooting support, please contact FAPO RACING customer service. You can often find contact details on the product packaging or the brand's official online presence.
FAPO RACING is committed to providing professional support and ensuring customer satisfaction.
