DIY Network

Suspension-Dampening Controller: System Test From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-205

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In this episode of Tricked Out, host Andrew Totolos installs a remote suspension dampening controller (EDFC system) to upgrade the coil-over suspension on a Ford Focus SVT. In this final phase of the project, the installed system gets a trial run.

Materials used in this project:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), tools and materials used in this episode include:

EDFC kit
Panel removal tool
Pliers
Allen wrench
8mm spanner wrench, from kit
Rubbing alcohol and towels
12-volt tester
Fuses and taps
Crimpers
Grabber tool
Panel removal tool
Industrial strength hook-and-loop tape
Electrical tape
Wire ties

DIY Difficulty Rating for This Project: We gave this a difficulty rating of 3 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

System Test

Now that the EDFC components (control module, servo motors and wiring) have all been installed, it’s time to test out the system and make sure it works properly. Read and follow the kit manual for all the details on using and testing the system. Here are the basics:

• Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY and press the power button on the control unit.

• The first time you turn it on, the unit will automatically set all of the dampers at zero (figure A), which is the hardest setting.

• You can use the front and rear scroll buttons to adjust the hardness of the front and rear dampers individually (figures B and C) on a level of one to 16--with 16 being the softest. If that’s not enough adjustability for you, you can convert the control module to 32-level mode, which allows you to set the dampening at half-step increments along the way.

• After you determine the best settings for different driving conditions you can save three of your favorites as presets for soft, medium and hard.

• Pressing all three preset buttons at once locks the control unit to prevent accidental changes.
  

$380 EDFC kit
$10 Fuses and taps

Total = $390

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

RESOURCES :

Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guide: Import Cars (Sport Compact Bolt-On Performance Guides)
Author: Joe Pettitt
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Voyageur Press (October 2000)
ISBN: 1884089526

TEIN USA, Inc.
Website: www.tein.com