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Race-Ready Lowering Springs for the MK3 Golf and Jetta
The H&R 54748-88 Race Spring is built for MK3 Golf and Jetta owners who want the most aggressive stance and handling improvement H&R offers for this platform. Manufactured from 54SiCr6 spring steel rated at 290,000 psi tensile strength, the 54748-88 lowers the front approximately 1.5 inches and the rear approximately 1.4 inches while using a progressively wound, firmer spring rate than H&R's Sport or Super Sport lines. The result is reduced body roll, sharper steering response, and a dramatically lower center of gravity for track and autocross use. As with all H&R Race Springs, performance shocks are recommended to complement the stiffer rate and shortened travel.
Key Features
- Approximately 1.5 inch front and 1.4 inch rear drop for an aggressive, race-ready stance
- Firmer, progressively wound spring rate for maximum handling performance
- Manufactured from 54SiCr6 spring steel rated at 290,000 psi
- Lowers center of gravity for reduced body roll in hard cornering
- Sold as a complete front and rear set
Fitment Table
| Year Range | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-1998 | Volkswagen | Golf/Jetta | MK3 8V (After 7/1/96, check top hat) |
Specifications
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| MPN | 54748-88 |
| Approx. Front Lowering | 1.5 in |
| Approx. Rear Lowering | 1.4 in |
| Spring Material | 54SiCr6 Spring Steel |
| Tensile Strength | 290,000 psi |
| Set Contents | 4 Springs (Front and Rear Set) |
| Recommended Pairing | Performance shocks |
What's Included
- 4x H&R 54748-88 Race Springs (2 front, 2 rear)
About H&R
H&R Special Springs has manufactured performance suspension components since 1979, and its Race Spring line represents the most aggressive drop and stiffest rate in the H&R lowering spring catalog. Every 54748-88 spring is shot-peened and manufactured to exacting tolerances for consistent ride height and performance across the full set.
FAQ
What is the 54748-88?The 54748-88 is an H&R Race Spring set for the 1996-1998 Volkswagen Golf and Jetta MK3 8V (after 7/1/96), lowering the front approximately 1.5 inches and the rear approximately 1.4 inches.
How much does it lower my Golf or Jetta?This spring set lowers the front approximately 1.5 inches and the rear approximately 1.4 inches from stock ride height.
Do I need to check my top hat before ordering this spring?Yes, VW made a mid-year change to strut top hat size on the MK3 platform after 7/1/96. Open the hood and check whether your struts have a small metal top or a larger black plastic cap top to confirm this spring set is correct for your vehicle.
Do I need new shocks with this Race Spring?H&R recommends performance shocks to complement the firmer spring rate and reduced travel of this Race Spring for best ride quality and control.
What material is it made from?It is manufactured from 54SiCr6 spring steel rated at 290,000 psi tensile strength for long-term durability.
Is this a full set?Yes, this set includes a complete set of 4 springs, 2 for the front and 2 for the rear.
How does this Race Spring compare to H&R's Sport Spring?This Race Spring uses a firmer, more aggressive spring rate than H&R's Sport Spring line, prioritizing maximum handling performance over daily ride comfort.
What vehicles fit this spring set?This spring set fits 1996-1998 Volkswagen Golf and Jetta MK3 8V models produced after 7/1/96.
Install Instructions
- Raise and support the vehicle, then remove the wheels
- Compress and remove the front and rear strut/shock assemblies per the vehicle service manual
- Disassemble each strut and replace the factory spring with the corresponding H&R 54748-88 spring
- Reassemble the strut assemblies and reinstall on the vehicle
- Reinstall the wheels and torque to the vehicle manufacturer's specification
- Perform a wheel alignment after installation to restore proper camber and toe
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