Help! 1988 Z51 shocks

[Len Imbrogno]

For some reason, Bilstein front shocks for the 1988 version of a Z51 are no longer available and I haven't seen an alternative. I was also told the 1989 Z51 will not fit it either. Was the 88 Z51 some sort of one-off deal? Has anyone else had a problem replacing front shocks for a 1988 Z51?

 

[Hib Halverson]

For some reason, Bilstein front shocks for the 1988 version of a Z51 are no longer available and I haven't seen an alternative. I was also told the 1989 Z51 will not fit it either. Was the 88 Z51 some sort of one-off deal? Has anyone else had a problem replacing front shocks for a 1988 Z51?

Bilstein rebuilds their shocks. The service is not too costly. Contact them at 800-537-1085 and inquire about shock overhaul.

 

[Len Imbrogno]

Bilstein rebuilds their shocks. The service is not too costly. Contact them at 800-537-1085 and inquire about shock overhaul.

Thanks Hib, I appreciate your input. I did find a set of four Bilstein "Autocross" shocks offered through Ecklers but they require lowering the car at least one inch for fitment. I may consider lowering the car but I haven't talked to anyone using this shock combo. Have you ever seen this "autocross" shock being used.

 

[Hib Halverson]

Thanks Hib, I appreciate your input. I did find a set of four Bilstein "Autocross" shocks offered through Ecklers but they require lowering the car at least one inch for fitment. I may consider lowering the car but I haven't talked to anyone using this shock combo. Have you ever seen this "autocross" shock being used.

If you lower the car an inch all around, you may find that uncomfortable on the street due to lack of suspension travel, but on the track, with the right shocks, it ought to work well.

 

[WhalePirot]

Bilstein rebuilds their shocks.

Did this and used their recommendation for revalving. The car rides very well, much better than stock with no loss of handling prowess.

SUPERB!

 

[Corvette95]

Sent mine to Bilstein two month ago, they just called me today, gave me multiple options and discount for the delayed response. Said they would be ready in three days.

 

[catbert]

Thanks Hib, I appreciate your input. I did find a set of four Bilstein "Autocross" shocks offered through Ecklers but they require lowering the car at least one inch for fitment. I may consider lowering the car but I haven't talked to anyone using this shock combo. Have you ever seen this "autocross" shock being used.

If you install those shock and lower the car, you will have a track car, not a street car. That setup will allow 1 G cornering, but make street driving absolute hell. That was the hot setup for street prepared autocross class back in the day.