I personally wouldnt cut a coil more than 1 1/2 turns. the next bet is to take springs from another vehicle that wouldnt need to be modified, either way u are changing the design of the susp. so keep that in mind when u drive it. I have changed lots of springs around and about the only way to get a feel for it is doing it yourself. As for using a cut off spring the top coil can be ground down to minimize digging into the springpocket.