How to Setup a Drift Car – Proper Drift Settings

Often times newcomers to drifting only focus on the height of their car. If it’s low you’re good right? Not quite. And more often than not, driver’s lower their cars too much and the geometry of the suspension goes out of wack. Stick to the tried and true of 2 inches lower! There is much more that goes into drifting than height alone and today we are going to cover some of the basics that you should know which make up for more than 75% of what the pros do.

For starters, the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to drifting, is the suspension. No, no, no, I am not saying that because we sell suspension, it’s actually true! If budget doesn’t allow for that, save until you are able to afford them, it is the smartest investment you can make when it comes to handling and drifting.

Spring rates vary a bit depending on the driver’s preference but traditionally you want to stick with something in between street sport and track. The front springs should always be slightly stiffer than the rear springs as well. Spring rates will vary depending on the make, model, and year as well.

If you make your springs too tight, you will find that your car bounces and pops up and down when drifting, especially if the terrain is not completely flat. Experimentation is the key here. Tinker with various front and rear setups. Typically the softer you go in the rear the more grip, the softer you go in the front the more grip. The stiffer you go, the easier it is to start a drift.

Sway bars are another important part of the drift formula. Sway bars reduce the “sway” or “body roll” of your car when turning. Reducing body roll while drifting plays a major role in how well you are able to control the vehicle mid drift. Body roll not only creates an accelerated push or pull in the control of your vehicle, but it also creates a disconnect between you and the vehicle. This is especially noticeable with hard cornering and switching between turns.

Alignment, toe, bushings, camber, and tire pressure all play a role in drifting as well.