89 Bilstein equipped - when is it time to replace? w/in>

[*89x2*]

I was wondering when is the proper time (if there is one... ) to replace your shocks. The car has developed a "bouncy" ride over the roads so I am thinking the time is near.

What did you replace your with ? Bilsteins?? And what valving? Base or Z51 valving? The car is a non-FX3 Coupe, FWIW and I was considering the Z51 valving in the shocks - $299 from Mid America - Cheaper anywhere else????

TIA

 

[callaway4fun]

Bouncey Ride

Chris I would check the tires if they are original they may be dry rotted or very hard which would account for the bumpy ride. Just my two cents . Pete

 

[-=Jeff=-]

I replaced my first set of bilsteins around 50K and again at 94K

First time I did Bilstein replacements.. now I have Edelbrocks, mainly cause I got a killer deal on them, I do have one set of Bilsteins I will get revalved at some point..

tough call, I guess if you are willing to have down time, get them re-valved..

 

[rrubel]

I knew it was time to replace the Delco-Bilsteins when:

a) the bushings had rotted to the point where the car wouldn't pass inspection, and
b) the front wheels rubbed the fender lining when you hit a bump at speed .

Note that I replaced them as soon as I bought the car... I went with TPIS's custom shocks and have been extremely happy on road and track.
[RICHR]

 

[DkBG]

Bounce the car up and down . When you stop it should sop quickly . Also , listen . If you hear a hiss when bounceing it you have a blown shock . As for wearing out . we asked a Bilstein Rep last summer and he said you can expect at least 100,000 miles . He also said a small amount of seepage of oil is normal and that the reservoir is filled with enough to compensate for a small loss . Cliff

 

[*89x2*]

Guys, Thanks for the quick replies!!

Car does bounce although, I lowered it using the Guildstrand wedges/bolts and it sits 1" -1 1/2" lower...
Car has Mid 40k's for miles - original shocks - no real seepage , a little grime has been wiped off periodically.

Pete - tires are probably circa 1995'ish maybe put 15k on them - maybe BFG TA/ZR tires they don't show any visual clues:confused

Stock "valving" or Z51 "valving" are $299 for 4 at Mid America - was hoping to keep the Bilsteins as they have done a nice job until recently
Thanks again!

 

[zog]

I just put a se t of Monroe sensatrac on my 86. It rides a bit softer, but still seems to handle well...actually there is a big improvement in handling, but that may be to the fact that the original Blistiens had 96,000 on them. Paid $106 and got a $25 rebate....works for me...

 

[89blackvette]

I have 89 Z51 and just replaced the stock shocks with KYB gas shocks. Originals had 102000 miles on them and were completely shot. Rides good and still handles like it should. Not being a man of any great means my decision was party made by price. I have also used the KYB's in the past with good results on 65 Impala Super Sport and also a truck.