jlvtx1800

Xviper said I could post this here (previous post was moved).

Just to clarify what I am looking for, I am not looking for opinions on which one is better and which I should put in my car. What I am looking for is physically and technically what are the differences between the two that I have not found yet. Things like they have different types of springs, one being more sensitive

JSR_AP2

RA = monotube
Flex = twintube
More details in your post in S2000 Talk.

jlvtx1800

I had that one deleted because I didn't want a double post. So what are the benifits of a monotube design?
Thanks

John

xviper

I'm going to transfer those posts to here for the benefit of all.
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Posted by: blue03s2k @Dec 30 2004, 10:53 AM

i have the flex with edfc.. and i love it....
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Posted by: JSR_AP2 @Dec 30 2004, 12:19 PM

The RA is a monotube shock while the Flex is a twintube. Monotube designs tend to be a bit lighter (less material) and offer improved cooling over twintubes. If you use this solely for the street, I doubt you'd ever notice heat issues degrading performance. However, cooler shocks do help to prolong their longevity (oil viscosity life, seal life, etc.). There is a new Tein coilover called the Super Racing that will be released 2/05...I'm trying to find out more info on that one, but Tein doesn't seem to like answering their phones.
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Posted by: NECurve @Dec 30 2004, 12:30 PM

I have the flex+edfc system on my car and highly recommend it for street, autoX, and occasional track use!
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Hope this helps - XV.

mwy23

flex can be rebuilt stateside @ teinusa for $100/corner + shipping out to cali. the ra/rs must be rebuilt in japan for $150/corner* + shipping to japan.

* if memory serves me correctly

jlvtx1800

I know your answer is going to be something like it depends on how you use them but I will ask anyway. How often do you need to have the rebuilt? Is this something that is an every year thing or if it is mainly a street car could you put 50,000 miles on them and they would be fine?

John

Clayman

The FLEX is full length adjustable, which means as you lower the car, you don't lose any shock travel. This is especially important for characteristics like rebound damping. Also, the RA threads are not coated with Teflon, and the FLEX are. This reduces the possibility of the loking rings seizing due to dirt on the threads.

jlvtx1800

So then why are the RA's more expensive? It sounds like the FLEX is a better deal

John

jchung

if i remember correctly, the flex + edfc is a bit more expensive than the ra's.

StinkyTofu

Have you guys ever compared the finish on the two suspension set ups? The flex is painted green and can chip easily while the RA is i think, annodized.