I am thinking of fitting some MAD Progressive springs http://mad-suspension.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&path=1&product_id=12 to my Octavia FL Estate to help with caravan towing and when I use a 2 bike towball mounted carrier.

I have cleared it with my insurance company but am unsure the best way to fit them.

Elsawin indicates that if the bottom suspension arm bolt is removed then it must be replaced (does anybody know the part number?) and that it must be re-tightened with the suspension in the correct running position to avoid over stressing the rubber bush. However Elsawin also recommends removing the rear spring with compressors before removing the bolt.

Has anybody fitted these springs by removing the rear suspension spring using spring compressors (which ones) and then inserting the MAD spring into the main spring before re-fitting? This would mean that i would not have to remove the bottom bolt.

Richard

You will need to drop the lower arm, you will not be able to compress the spring with the MAD'S fitted in the spring, reinstall the bolt fit the wheel and drop onto some

blocks to give your self some room to torque up the bolts, you could use your caravan levelling wedges.

I am thinking of fitting some MAD Progressive springs http://mad-suspensio...1&product_id=12 to my Octavia FL Estate to help with caravan towing and when I use a 2 bike towball mounted carrier.

I have cleared it with my insurance company but am unsure the best way to fit them.

Elsawin indicates that if the bottom suspension arm bolt is removed then it must be replaced (does anybody know the part number?) and that it must be re-tightened with the suspension in the correct running position to avoid over stressing the rubber bush. However Elsawin also recommends removing the rear spring with compressors before removing the bolt.

Has anybody fitted these springs by removing the rear suspension spring using spring compressors (which ones) and then inserting the MAD spring into the main spring before re-fitting? This would mean that i would not have to remove the bottom bolt.

Richard

Hi Richard, i to tow a caravan and the octy estate is a little weak at the rear, Ive spoken to MAD Suspension and ive opted for there Air Helpers as ive fitted some progressive spring assisters for customers in the past and yes they do work but increase solo ride height slightly, If you dont mind the solo ride height slightly raised then happy days but just to be aware they do increase it. The beauty of the air helpers is you can inflate them when you are towing and let them down when your not. Phil.

Phil,

Do you have to remove the springs to insert the air helpers?

I assume that you route the inflation point to an accessable position but how do you know what pressure to inflate them to?

RICHARD

I took mine (helper springs) to my dealer who fitted them for me - 1hr labour plus VAT.

Insurance company seemed happier that the dealer had fitted them rather than a DIY effort on my part.

Ride height already increased on a 4x4 so don't really notice the difference when not under any load, but they certainly stop the nose pointing skyward when car is under load at the rear. (full boot plus ball mounted bike carrier in my case).

Edited 9 March, 201313 yr by Rab-k

Hi Richard, i to tow a caravan and the octy estate is a little weak at the rear, Ive spoken to MAD Suspension and ive opted for there Air Helpers as ive fitted some progressive spring assisters for customers in the past and yes they do work but increase solo ride height slightly, If you dont mind the solo ride height slightly raised then happy days but just to be aware they do increase it. The beauty of the air helpers is you can inflate them when you are towing and let them down when your not. Phil.

Do you have any pictures of the air helpers fitted.

Phil,

Do you have to remove the springs to insert the air helpers?

I assume that you route the inflation point to an accessable position but how do you know what pressure to inflate them to?

Yes the rear springs have to be removed as the air helpers fit inside the original springs but easy to do by removing the lower arm outer bolt, lowering the arm and removing the spring. Phil

Do you have any pictures of the air helpers fitted.

Not as yet as i only ordered them last tuesday so hopefully they should arrive sometime this week, When i fit them i will take some photos. Phil

Thanks Phil.

I will look forward to the update.

Richard