200 cup dampers an upgrade for a 197?

[Jamie Smith]

Hi all,

Just wondering if a set of 200 cup dampers will fit a197 and if these are seen as an upgrade over the 197 Cup items?
Am I right in thinking the 200 cup units are slightly stiffer?

Anyone made this change?

 

[Jamie Smith]

Also, would I have to change the top mounts to a later type if putting the later 200 cup dampers on?
I’m reading that the later 200’s had a narrower top to the front spring so not sure if it’s even possible to retrofit 200 suspension to a 197??

Sorry, I’m new to this

 

[john_walker74]

Early 200s have the same larger top mount design as the 197. My 59 plate 200 had the larger top mounts

 

[RSRowe]

The difference between standard shocks and cup ones is like night and day imo.
I run them with lowering springs and they're mint for track, but a little crashy on the roads.


Jamie is right with what he's saying too. You'd need early 200 shocks to fit your 197.

 

[Jamie Smith]

Thanks for the replies chaps. I have the option of going for 197 or 200 cup dampers (early 200’s) as I’m changing them all.
Any advantage of 200 dampers over 197’s or should I just stick with the 197 cup shocks? I think Cup spring rates were the same between the two?

 

[Doogle]

Ive done this, great idea as sharpens up the handling. Id say 200 Cup dampers on the rear I find too hard, I think 200 Cup front dampers and 197 Cup rear dampers would be good. It can be too stiff for a road car.