Which Faulkner spring is the one for me?

We get asked a lot about which length spring people should choose and which spring rating is best for a customers setup so we thought it might be useful to have a post filled with all the information.

Let's begin by talking a bit about the springs themselves:

Faulkner springs are quality springs made right here in Great Britain. The springs are made from the highest quality Chrome Vanadium, Silicon Chrome and Silicon Magnesium ground bar. All springs prior to finishing, undergo tightly controlled hardening and tempering processes to ensure minimum decarbonisation and this is followed by shot peening, which increases the fatigue life of the spring.

You might notice that these springs don't look like your standard spring. This is because although they fit and work very well on the T4, they aren't specifically made for them. The Faulkner springs are generic rally springs. Unlike traditional T4 springs, which are progressive, the Faulkner springs are linear.

- So what's the difference between Linear and Progressive?

Linear springs, have a spring rate that is consistent along the entire length of the spring as it is compressed. Progressive springs on the other hand, have a spring rate that increases or changes with the compression of the spring. Progressive springs will give you a smoother more comfortable ride than linear for this reason. However if you want to go lower than 40mm and still have a spring that is going to withstand the weight of a camper conversion then the Faulkner spring is the only way to go.

- So what spring rating should I go for?

Basically the higher the number the stiffer the spring, so the more weight it can carry. That being said the correct spring rating is dependent on the sort of weight you have in your van. Our spring ratings range from 950lbs - 1200lbs. 950lbs is ideal for very light loaded vans and 1200lbs is what we would recommend if you are carrying heavier loads or towing. Our most popular spring ratings are 1000lbs and 1100lbs. These are what we recommend to use with day vans and camper conversions. We do not recommend going lower than 950lbs as the spring will not be strong enough and you risk it snapping. We can provide higher spring ratings too if you are carrying a very heavy load.

- What length do I need?

Approx vehicle height drop from standard: 8"lowers 25mm 7" lowers 50mm 6" lowers 75mm 5" lowers 100mm 4.5" lowers 112mm 4" lowers 125mm Rear shim thickness will affect ride height along with the weight on board.

- Do i need to make any modifications to run these springs?

The Faulkner springs are shorter than standard spring for this reason they need to be run with short shocks. It is also highly recommended that you use our TRS suspension limit strap kits. These will prevent unwanted movement of the spring. We recommend the following parts and modifications with Faulkner springs: 7" Springs : 

• Short shocks

• Additional 5mm shims to sit above and below springs

6" Springs :

• Short shocks

• Suspension limit straps

• Modified standard or Scarface Lowrider front shock mounts with Powerflex bumpstops

• Cut rear bumpstops (not always required)

• Additional 5mm shims to sit above and below springs

5" Springs :

• Short shocks

• Scarface Lowrider front shock mounts with Powerflex bumpstops

• Short drop links

• Cut rear bumpstops

• Additional 5mm shims to sit above and below springs

• Hand brake cable reloated 

• Steering arm chassis notch to prevent the arms from hitting when on full lock

4" Springs :

• Short shocks

• Suspension limit straps

• Scarface Lowrider front shock mounts with Powerflex bumpstops

• Short drop links

• Cut rear bumpstops

• Additional 5mm shims to sit above and below springs

• Front and rear chassis notching

Can I go low with my wheels?

We also get asked this question a lot. The wheels you are running will definitely impact how low you can go before they begin to rub. Generally anything bigger than 17's will potentially rub if you go lower than 6". However this all depends on a lot of factors, like tyre size, wheel widths, offset etc. It is a very difficult question to answer due to these factors. Its also worth noting that post 1996 vans have a wider track so will naturally sit the wheels further out compared to pre 96 T4's.

Also be sure the tyres you are running have enough load rating for your van!

Hopefully this answers most of the questions you are looking to be answered. We will keep adding to this post to make sure that any questions you might have can be answered here. If not then we are always available to help on social media or via email thevdubmonkeys@gmail.com

(6” springs. 18” alloys)

(4'' Faulkner’s, 17" 7.5j et42 on 205 45 17 front, 8.5j et40 on 215 40 17 rear)

(5" Springs, 17” banded steels)

(5inch springs, 15" banded steelies)