I want to install some coil overs on my tribute, but there really aren't any aftermarket parts designed for my car. I wonder if there are any parts designed for a different car that might work with some slight modification. My goal is to achieve a 1-2in lift and put some larger tires on.

 

A shop that specializes in suspension upgrades ( off road and 4x4 performance shops)may be able to help u but don’t be surprised if all decline doing the project unless you sign multiple saviors. Your plat form is in a nut shell a bad idea for col over suspension. Exception would be to include all suspension upgrades like sway bars and polyurethane bushing . Obviously this would be a project suited for an off road conversion and not to be used as a Dailey driver.

 

I've already upgraded sway bars, control/ trailing arms, bushings, and tie rods. The only thing I haven't touched so far are the struts and shocks. But you think a suspension shop would be my best option for more info? I am looking to do the work myself

 

Well honestly you started to upgrade your suspension without planning it out. So IKD at this point.

Coil over are a bad IDEA for street vehicles. Unless your thought is to be "KOOL" or had them in the past. My guess is 80% users of coil overs on the street have no clue how to adjust them and adjust the steering and suspension parts when you change adjustments.

Honestly if you are asking then you do not have the experience. But If you did then you would be going directly to companies that offer replacement OEM dampeners then write your part number down. Go to their specifications catalog (you may have to request it) and see what yours are. This will give you the information to then start the look up of other dampeners that may either be exactly what you have or something close enough that you can use that information to then go to suppliers of coil overs and find a set that will bolt on and fit to some degree your application.

Lots of work but there are some specialized shops that do this.

Good Luck with your Project.

 

Awesome! that's exactly what I needed to get started. I've tried looking up the specifications for my dampeners, but couldn't find anything. Its good to hear that it is possible to find it out that way. if I screw it up then its my car anyways. Thanks!

 

KYB has a complete specification catalog available. You will need to have patience and read the first few pages to understand the ID of the parts. Don't get frustrated as there are very few platforms that have unique only dampeners. Most dampeners from supplier/manufacture only list from a OEM cross over. But using what I told you should be able to get in the end what you want. The important specific to watch is the collapse end to end measurement.

This information I give you as a "home brew Ticker" and vehicle modifier, not as a professional (that is reserved for other thread ) I can't really state facts or empirical data because of the extreme variables in that can and will come up during the search off OEM part specification. In other words, you do so at your own risk of botching the work... lol!

But have fun and post your findings, al in all if you do it correctly you will likely have a one of a kind Mazda!