KW V3 and RCE Tarmac II Spring Rates

[Plastic Robot]

I’ve narrowed it down to either buying KW V3’s or RCE Tarmac II’s. I have some concerns with both, so I’m hoping to get some more information or opinions. From my understanding all new KW V3’s now come with the softer 230/285 lb spring rates instead of the 343/400 lb rates that they originally came with. These softer rates are pushing me more towards the RCE T2’s. The T2’s come with 400/400 lb spring rates, but from what I've seen on other setups a lot of people are running softer springs in front to reduce understeer.
I realize I can probably order the T2’s with softer springs in front, but I’d be concerned that the shocks have been valved to run optimally with the 400lb springs, so I’d actually be losing some performance.

Can anyone comment on softer V3 springs or the matching rates of the T2's?

(I’m currently running 225/45/17 Michelin Pilot Super Sports and I'm hoping to add in more track time.)

[yomny]

I could be mistaken but i think the valving isn't exact to the 400lbs springs as they themselves give you options. What i mean to say is that just like oem shocks could use aftermarket springs and feel good these custom valved ones could run a range of rates without seeing any negative effects. The understeer could be tuned out with other adjustments besides the stiffer spring rate, like a sway bar and even a softer compression/rebound setup.

In my opinion if you're interested in track time then the Tarmacs are made specifically for that application. I personally dont have any parts from racecomp but i know their reputation quite well and if they chose or offer a 400/400 for track then i think you'll be happy with it. the V3's rates would be more tailored for the general public.

[burdickjp]

Stiffer springs aren't always the answer. Good valving goes a long way to improving performance. Just by upgrading to a higher quality shock which has some development into it you should be getting some better performance, without the expense of harshness.
At the same time, a higher quality shock can reduce the harshness of stiff springs.

I tend to the conservative side, and would suggest the softer springs.
You can always change springs in the future, though.
Don't expect to have the right answer the first time. Time trying different springs is time well spent.

[wparsons]

T2's are available with 400, 500 or 600lb springs. If you want some stagger, just go stiffer on the rears. You could do 400/500 or 500/600 and still be well within the sweet spot on the dampers.