I was thinking about doing the same thing to my springs in the 85 supra because the upper portion of the springs are just an open coil, so seating the spring would not be a problem.

Now to the spring rate.

Spring rate is typically defined as k = F/y where k is the spring rate, F is the applied force and y is the amount of deflection.

Another way to define spring rate is k = (d^4)*G / 8*(D^3)*Na where:
d = wire diameter
D = mean coil diameter
Na = number of active coils
G = shear modulus of material

By lowering the number of active coils, you will raise the spring rate.

jhooten, congratulations on a successful race weekend and on your top ten finish in points this season! It is encouraging to hear that the motor is holding up, I am planning on getting the machine work done on mine in the next few months. Have you contacted elprototypes about the ecu? I had a talk with Eric there yesterday and they are VERY knowledgeable about the engine and what it takes to get them running strong.