Hello-
I've got an 85' Jetta diesel that I love. 200k and still going strong with great mpg.
I'd like to lower it a bit w/out paying for the fancy springs and struts. Has anyone cut a coil off their spring to get the desired affects? If so, how did you do it?
Thanks!

 

bad idea, you dont want to do that. Cutting the spring can get you a lower look, but will screw your ride comfort for sure, most likely your handling, and i wouldn't doubt it it if broke or damaged other parts. Springs, struts and shocks for that car cannot be that much, ive seen coilovers for a mk3 for 400 which is the most expensive way to go. look around and go with drop springs at least, they're dirt cheap by themselves for any car.

 

Safety concern as well

 

i know that other people are going to be angry for me saying this, but if you are wanting to lower you dub you can cut the springs. i have to agree with the other responces that it is not safe. if you choose to cut the springs i have been told that the only tool to use is a saws-all aka a reciprocating saw with a metal blade. if you use a torch yourisk dammage tothe tempering and strenght of the metal. remember i do not recomend cutting springs. you might be able to buy light duty springs that are for a lighter load, so when you put the car back on the ground it might be a little lower.

 

Definitely I do agree with the other replies which regards to safety.... It is not advisable to cut a VW coil springs just to lower your car specially by torch... But if you really want to cut it, cut at your own risk... Beside, you might end up buying more parts, for the reason that it caused some damages in your car parts or even your life...

 

All of you are right, but another point is thermal expansion. Metal on metal heats up and eventually will heat up the spring, and will mess with the temper. Never ever cut or heat the springs, that's why they make kits.