Need Advice - Springs or Coilovers?

[mazza]

I know this question has probably been beaten senseless, but I searched the forum and couldn't find a close answer.

I've got a 2001 Camry (4cyl) that I've started doing some work to. It's completely stock now, but I just ordered my 17x8 ASA AR1 Black w/ machine lip wheels with 215/45HR17 tires. I'm more show than go, so they don't have to be extreme performance, but I'd like for them to look good.

So that leads me to my question... I want the drop to be as affordable as possible, but I want to have the least amount of gap possible between the fender and the tire. Without sacrificing a lot of ride quality OR performance, would it be better to go with adjustable coilovers or springs?

On a side note... I do have quite a bit of experience with working on trucks... I used to be really into extremely customized trucks, but have recently sold it, so on to a new project! So in that case, would it be better to have someone else install them, ie a shop, or is it fairly easy to install them yourself? And if so, is there a site that has instructions or a how-to?

Sorry for the long post!

Thanks a ton for the help!

Z. Mazza

[bigdaddymak20]

http://www.rms-usa.com/product_p/tok-hpk355.htm

Try this for a inch or so drop. check the link

[mazza]

Thanks for the reply!
I noticed that kit earlier but was hoping I could get something a bit more affordable... Looked at the eibach springs for 227 also... haven't been able to find too many coilover kits.. maybe I'm looking in the wrong places. I'm also at a total loss on how to install any of them anyway.

Add the cost of a shop installing those springs and shocks and I'm broke! LOL!

I'd like to purchase a body kit as well and I'm looking at probably 500-600 dollars right there from what I've been able to find. So saving as much money as possible is key.

What do you think about going with the springs and the factory struts?

[xet]

low springs can wear out reg struts pretty quickly. coilovers would be best performance wise and you can get the drop you want but its more expensive and doesnt last as long. you can do something like h&r springs and tokico struts, thats the setup i would do. or you can try the tokico combo setup which is cheaper.

[mazza]

Tokico combo being tokico springs and tokico struts?

Have any good links on how to do a DIY install?

[DAMON]

install is simple if youre doing coilovers, youll know everything to do once youre in there. Coilovers are going to give you the drop you want and the adjustability, but theyre probably going to run you at least $800. Dont expect to get much drop with springs though- I have always anticipated that slammed look and have never gotten close with just springs on any car.

Decide what your budget is and how bad you want the perfect drop, then go from there. Eibach and H&R will be a very minimal drop IMO.