Lowering the Midget reduces the centre of gravity, sharpens turn-in, and gives a purposeful stance. Because the front and rear suspension are entirely different in design, a balanced lowering package addresses each end separately. The objective is a modest, even reduction in ride height that improves handling without compromising ground clearance or ride quality to the point of impracticality on British roads.
Front Lowering
The Midget front suspension uses a coil spring acting on the lower wishbone. Front ride height is reduced by fitting shorter or uprated lowered coil springs. A lowered front spring of a higher rate also reduces body roll, complementing the reduced height. Fitting front springs requires a coil spring compressor and care, as the spring is under considerable load when the suspension is dismantled.
Rear Lowering
The Midget rear suspension changed during production from quarter-elliptic leaf springs on the earliest cars to semi-elliptic leaf springs from the Mk3 onward. The lowering method differs accordingly. On semi-elliptic cars, ride height can be reduced with lowering blocks fitted between the axle and the spring, or by fitting lowered leaf springs. The rear lowering component must match the spring type fitted to the car, so identifying the rear suspension design is essential before ordering.
Balanced Packages
Lowering only one end of the car upsets the handling balance and the rake of the body. A matched front-and-rear lowering package keeps the geometry sensible and the stance even. It is good practice to combine lowering with uprated dampers, as standard or worn dampers struggle to control a stiffer, lower suspension.
Ordering Considerations
Identify the rear spring type (quarter-elliptic or semi-elliptic) before ordering, as this determines the lowering method. Consider the knock-on effects: a lowered car may require attention to bump-stop clearance and will benefit from a geometry check and uprated dampers. UK road conditions mean a moderate drop is usually more usable than an extreme one.