New Eibach Info for 2006 Focus

[vmaxxer]

All -

Just had a very lengthy discussion with Mark at Eibach regarding the changes to the 2006 suspension on the ZX3. Mark actually did the test fit and mock-up for the 2006 model. I would think the same would apply to the ZX5, but I did not ask specifically about that model. Anyway ... here is the latest info straight from the horses mouth:

1. ProKit Springs - They are available now, although they are new and may be tough to find. However, they are in full production.

2. Sportline - No info available on release date

3. Pro System (w/dampers) - Possibly 6 months out. However, the most interesting info was regarding the exact changes to the 2006 model year. The only changes from a 2005 is the diameter of the front damper. Front top mounts and rears are all direct fit from 2005. The diameter of the front damper is 5mm LARGER than 2005 dampers. What this means is that the lower clamp on the front spindle that holds the damper will be 5mm too large if using 2005 dampers. I asked if there was enough clamp room to absorb the 5mm delta and he stated they did not verify that, as they have a 1mm tolerance across components.

4. Sportline System (w/dampers) - No info available on release date.

Also - he mentioned that other than the ProKit Springs, there is a chance that NO FURTHER PRODUCTS WILL BE DEVELOPED BY EIBACH FOR THE 2006 MODEL YEAR. They are waiting on a pre-production replacement focus, and cannot determine the future support of the 2006 my without seeing the changes on the new model. They will not develop other products for a single model year.

Now ...what to do ... it might be possible to modify 2005 dampers to fit the larger hole of the 2006 spindle. I will probably go this route and see. There are 2 possible scenarios here - weld a sleeve ring to the bottom of the damper or try and see if the clamp can absorb the additional 5mm of play.

Another option would be to replace the entire spindle from a 2005, then all 2005 components will fit. Not sure at this point if the 05 spindle is a direct replacement or not, or even what they would cost at a salvage yard.

Hope this helps clear up things regarding the 2006 suspension changes on the zx3 ...

V

[Sponsor]

[asiamex]

This is bad news. From your post I assume the rear springs are the same as 2005 and not the issue?

I like the idea of making a bushing or sleeve for the front damper.

[CrazyMatt]

Wow.. Thanks for finding all that out for people.. there have been a lot of threads asking about the 06 suspension.

[vmaxxer]

According to Mark, the only changes to the suspension were with regard to the front components:

1. Front Springs are different, hence the development of the new ProKit (springs only)

2. Front Damper is larger, meaning that the spindle clamp is to large to accept 2005 dampers

All rear components (again, according to Mark) are direct fit from 2005, and really, from 2000+

[asiamex]

Ok, if anyone finds an online dealer for the ProKit Springs please post it.

Thanks to vmaxxer for posting this info.

[asiamex]

I ordered a set of sportlines from tirerack (finally), they're on the UPS truck now, hope to install them tonight.... I'll take some before and after shots.

[airdrummer]

Originally posted by asiamex
I ordered a set of sportlines from tirerack (finally), they're on the UPS truck now, hope to install them tonight.... I'll take some before and after shots.

Yes, please post pics. I'm really looking at the sportlines. I would get them if they would release a dang damper for them.

[focusin]

So its come down to I am just going to buy the damn springs and then get KYB AGX's when I can afford them.

I have been waiting and waiting for the prokit (dambers and springs) and was TOLD BY EIBACH they ARE out and available.

So what is it, are the dampers for the 06 out or not?

[jhess74]

I just called Eibach to see what was up with the dampers, and was told they may not even offer them for the 2006. That sucks... doesn't seem like there's much support for the '06.

[airdrummer]

I e-mailed steeda about shocks/struts, and they told me they sell some for the 2006 by a company called Tokico. I emailed steeda for more information, I'll keep you updated if you'd like.

BTW, they are $193 each for fronts, and $72 each for rears. Kinda pricey, but it might be our only option.