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2002 springs

Regarding Stephan's question about the 2002 springs: 

The springs with the blue and white markings are almost certainly front 
springs. The rear springs have a single color marking.

Front springs: green/blue > white/blue > red/blue in decreasing rate;
Rear springs: green > white > red  in decreasing spring rate.[N,kp,lb]

Of note: 
The 'Baur convertible kit' rear springs listed in the repair '02 manual's
specs have the same color codes as the regular rear springs, but are 
thinner and nominally lighter in rate (1%) however, they are approximately 
25 mm longer. Could this be the problem? Have you got a spring from a 
convertible in there? Rather nasty that the same color codes were used.

The front and rear springs of the normal 2002's appear the same size
approximately, however the rear ones are 0.5 mm thicker in wire diameter
and outer winding diameter, and are 3 mm longer as well. However, rear
springs are 22% stiffer in spring rate than the front springs, a
significant difference. The blue and white springs would likely be too
soft. It may be possible to put them in, but could be dangerous. I may be
wrong but the car might be real twitchy in the rear end and could be
tricky to drive. Could one possible benefit of such a modification be that
it would be very difficult to pass such a car in a corner? 8^) Other
opinions? What's the best compromise for 2002 handling performance and 
daily driving practicality? 

Good luck with the repairs and season's best wishes to one and all. I hope
that the right parts are readily available.  If there is interest, more
complete specs on the stock springs are available to those who wish via
e-mail. 8^) 

Best regards,
William Boyd
'74 2002tii