If you're running a Nissan 350Z and you're ready to upgrade your suspension, coilovers are the way to go. But not all 350Z coilovers are built the same—and setting them up wrong can ruin your ride or kill your confidence on track.
This guide breaks down how to properly set up 350Z coilovers for both street and drift use—covering spring rates, ride height, damping, and the #1 mistakes to avoid.
Want to skip the learning curve? Check out SLR’s Drift Spec Coilovers for 350Z →
What Makes SLR's 350Z Coilovers Different?
The 350Z has a well-balanced chassis and a lot of potential—but it’s heavy. That means spring rates and valving matter more than most realize. A good coilover kit will transform how your Z responds under throttle, transitions, and braking.
SLRspec coilovers for the 350Z are tuned with drift-specific rebound, compression, and faster transition response compared to street kits. They're also built to handle big angle, stiff alignment setups, and aggressive tire loads.
Best 350Z Coilover Spring Rates for Drifting
Our proven drift setup for the 350Z uses:
- Front Spring Rate: 12k
- Rear Spring Rate: 5k
This combination helps maintain front-end grip while letting the rear rotate smoothly. It's ideal for both competition drifting and high-speed street sliding. If you’re running more grip or tandem setups, stiffer rear rates may help fine-tune rotation speed.
Recommended Street Setup
Looking for a 50/50 daily and weekend warrior setup? Try:
- 10k front / 6k rear
- Rebound 3 clicks from soft
- Ride height 1.5” lower than stock
It gives a firm but liveable ride, and still lets you slide without a full pro setup.
How to Set Ride Height Without Ruining Geometry
350Z suspension geometry suffers if you slam the car too low. Here's how to do it right:
- Front fender height: ~26.25” from ground
- Rear fender height: ~26.5” from ground
- Check alignment after every change
Lower isn’t always better. Maintain suspension travel to prevent bottoming out under compression or transitions.
Corner Balance Optional—But Worth It
If you’re running tandems, competing in ProAm, or just picky about how the car feels, get a corner balance done. Even weight distribution = predictable rotation = cleaner drifts.
Damping Settings for Drift vs Grip
Drift Mode:
- Front: 4–6 clicks from full stiff
- Rear: 8–10 clicks from full stiff
Street/Grip Mode:
- Front: 8–12 clicks from stiff
- Rear: 10–14 clicks from stiff
Every track and tire setup is different, but these numbers are a great starting point. Adjust in small increments (2 clicks at a time) and feel the difference in how the chassis loads and unloads.
Coilover Setup Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the most common mistakes we see new drivers make:
- Setting ride height using spring preload (don’t)
- Running all damping full soft or full stiff (useless)
- Ignoring rear squat and traction balance
- Using spring rates too soft for Z’s weight
If in doubt, go with a proven kit like ours—designed to take abuse, respond precisely, and give confidence under pressure.
Conclusion
350Z coilovers aren’t just about looks—they’re about control. Whether you're daily driving, hitting your first drift event, or prepping for comp, the right coilover setup will give your car the balance and feedback it needs to shine.
Want drift-spec suspension that’s been proven on track?
Explore SLR Drift Spec Coilovers for 350Z →
