Shock recommendations?

[Rod in OKC]

'95 LT-1 Auto Coupe with the base suspension, 3.07 performance rear end and Michelin Pilot XGT Z4 tires.....

I need to replace the shocks that were on the car when I bought it. The ride is choppy and it hops around a lot on bumps.

Looking for something mid-range priced. I don't want a bone-jarring ride, but then again, I don't want it to be too mushy. I'd prefer it to be smooth, but sporty.

I'm considering KYB's and Monroe Sensa-Trac's. Also, both Corvette Central and Mid America have the same unlabeled shocks priced at $139 per set of 4. Don't know who they're made by or how good they are. Both companies are "recommending" them. Maybe their mark-up is really good on them.

Has anyone tried any of these? Any recommendations?

 

[vader86]

Edelbrock IAS are pretty good for a firm but not bone-jarring ride.

I personally like Bilsteins better, but theyre a little stiffer.

 

[AmosF16]

I put Edelbrock IAS shocks on my first gen Camaro--firm but comfortable ride. I'd recommend them as well. Andy :Roll

 

[TerryD]

I think KYB would be the best for the money, along with a more supple ride. I believe they're in the $130-160 range.

 

[rrubel]

I really like my TPIS custom-valved shocks. I believe they were $175/set of 4.
[RICHR]

 

[JonM]

Another vote for http://www.bilstein.com

 

[Rod in OKC]

rrubel,

Do you know who makes the TPIS shocks? I'm not familiar with that name, but I've seen it all throughout Corvette Central's catalog. That's the set that sells for $139.

Anyone else have these or the KYB's?

Rod

 

[rrubel]

Rod, I don't know who makes the physical shock for TPIS (they're jet black, no lettering that I can see) ... they do say that the valving is done by them. TPIS itself is a company devoted to Vettes and a limited number of other GM cars. They make/resell a number of parts for L98 and LT1 motors as well.
[RICHR]

 

[UB2 SLOW]

Another one is the QA1's. They have 12 settings. I dont have them yet. They allot more expensive than Koni or Bilstiens.

 

[Corvette-Pilot]

I really like my TPIS custom-valved shocks. I believe they were $175/set of 4.
[RICHR]

Haven't heard of these?
Where do you find them and where can I find more info about them (web site).

I think I will need new shocks but haven't started to research them so I have a way to go.

I don't want a filling remover ride just a nice cruiser feel.

 

[rrubel]

Corvette-pilot, their website is http://www.tpis.com . I've had the shocks for almost exactly a year and about 3000 miles, including some track driving. On the street, they're comfortable enough that my wife hasn't complained about the ride at all. On the track, they were at least reasonably aggressive. The car had worn out (no bushings left!) Delco-Bilsteins when I got it so I don't have a direct comparison, but I find them quite comfortable.
[RICHR]

 

[robert kirk]

I use KYB's on both of mine. I'm very pleased with the ride. would use them again. In my opi, the extra money could be put to better use. you can spend a lot of money to buy a name. shocks are a throw away item. i replace them every 40 thousand. cheers robert

 

[Rod in OKC]

rrubel, you've tipped the scales!!! I'm going to go with the TPiS's.
By the way, on your original Delco/Bilsteins, what did they look like? The shocks that are on mine (which may be original) are yellow, but are so badly worn and covered in grime that I can't read anything. I did find one box up at the top of the lower sleeve / tube that has the letters WP in it.

I've got a 1" sag in the left rear corner and am hoping that it may be shock related. The other possibility is that the right rear corner may be 1" too high. I am getting excessive bounce from the right rear on bumps. Being the 3rd owner, who knows what someone may have done to it. I'll post if this cures or helps it.

Many thanks to all. By all means, check TPiS's website. Lot's of performance equipment. However, check the catalogs (Corvette Central, Mid America, etc.) for better pricing. You can save around $45 a set instead of going direct.

Rod

 

[rrubel]

Rod, my Bilsteins are yellow with a blue label (much of which is illegible after 133k miles). My fronts were sagging to the point that the tires were rubbing the fender liner when hitting bumps...

BTW - the TPIS are supposed to have a lifetime rebuild warranty from what I remember. It would have cost me $75 each to rebuild the DB's.
[RICHR]

 

[BlackNBlue95]

I know this is kinda late to throw in.. I just bought the KYB's will be installing them next weekend.. they were 30$ a piece with tax came out to just under 130$ for the set.. I've been having alot of hopping around on the highway so I figured maybe the bilstiens are ready for a re build LoL.. so I'll get them done at some point..
Anyway I'll post how the KYB's work out for me..
-Rick