suspension setup

[mike t]

I am a little confused as to the type of suspension setup on my 95 LT1. Mid America parts mag suggests a steering wheel turn from lock to lock of just over 2 turns is Z51 and 2 3/4 turn is Z52 and base. I do not know what these numbers mean. eg Z51 and Z52. From the above it would appear I have the Z51 setup as my steering wheel has just over 2 turns lock to lock. Here in Worcester MA winter is here and I really have to put the corvette away thought I hate to do this. Thanks for any help.

 

[fast.asleep]

I don't know for certain if this applies to '95 but

waaaay back in '87, the option sheet was stuck under the lid of the glove box. The suspension options (z51, z52) were listed there. (last line I believe)

 

[WradDad]

On my '96, the option sheet is on the underside of the lid to the storage compartment behind the passenger seat.

Barry

 

[Tuna]

The 95 did not come with Z51 or Z52! The performance handling package in 95 was called Z07 and it included the FX3 adjustable shocks. If you do not have the adjustable suspension control on the console between the seat adjusters, you cannot have Z07.

To be sure what you have, check the RPO sticker under the rear compartment lid. What are you thinking of ordering from MidAmerica?

 

[mike t]

Thank you, just never know. I am sure I do not have the Z07 option as I do not have the adjustible mechanism between the seats.

 

[c4cruiser]

If you are after a performance-type shock, you can get Bilsteins that are stiffer than the factory FE1 base-suspension shocks. Check with Vette Brakes for availability and pricing.

KYB Gas-A-Just shocks are a good replacement shock that are just a bit stiffer than the base shock and are availabel from Summit Racing for $28 eack. I've used these before and they are a great deal for the low cost.

 

[mike t]

Bilsteins are on there now so I suppose the previous owner must have upgraded the suspension though they look like they have never been chagned. Thank you for the info.

 

[JEFNLSA]

Bilsteins came stock on base model suspensions so I doubt they were replaced.

 

[mike t]

Thank you, yes I feel they are stock with about 52,000 miles on them. They seem to work fine though its hard for me to judge as this is my first corvette. I have been looking at the Edelbrock shocks as a replacement. Somewhat expensive but the specs look good. This will have to wait till spring.

 

[RV Guy]

I have been thinking about replacing my shocks also. I have an 86 coupe with the Z51 option. I bought my Vette about a year ago and it has some kind of tire store shocks on it. What would be the stock replacement shocks and where can I get them? What would I expect to gain from going back to the stock shocks? Is there a better option?

Thanks

 

[JEFNLSA]

"KYB Gas-A-Just shocks are a good replacement shock that are just a bit stiffer than the base shock and are availabel from Summit Racing for $28 eack. I've used these before and they are a great deal for the low cost"


I'd go that route because the Bilsteins will be alot more $$$ and I don't know that you will notice the difference that much.

 

[tlong]

I also read about the 2 turns + on the wheel suspension indicator. I don't think it's accurate as I have FE1 and get 2.25 turns lock to lock.

New Base Bilsteins are plenty stiff. They handle fine too. The Z51 shocks are very stiff, jarring. KYBs are good. Edelbrocks are mixed reviews with a compromise in handling for a smoother ride. If you care about staying stock go with Bilsteins. I really like them after replacing at 45,000 miles.

 

[JEFNLSA]

The New Base Bilsteins are plenty stiff. They handle fine too. If you care about staying stock go with Bilsteins. I really like them after replacing at 45,000 miles.

How much were they? Just curious....cuz I "heard" they were pricey.

 

[Vettelt193]

I also read about the 2 turns + on the wheel suspension indicator. I don't think it's accurate as I have FE1 and get 2.25 turns lock to lock.

New Base Bilsteins are plenty stiff. They handle fine too. The Z51 shocks are very stiff, jarring. KYBs are good. Edelbrocks are mixed reviews with a compromise in handling for a smoother ride. If you care about staying stock go with Bilsteins. I really like them after replacing at 45,000 miles.

'

the steering issue is from the earlier C4's. Z51 cars got the 'quicker' steering back then. On the later C4's, the steering is all the same regardless of suspension option.

 

[WhalePirot]

The Bilsteins last much longer than the 'old' factory shocks. I had my original Z-51 shocks rebuilt and revalved to GS specification by Bilstein, but I am not sure if this is an option anymore. I liked the environmental aspect and it was a bit cheaper. I also prefer the ride of the GS's versus the Z's. Shipped, I paid $251.68 for four.

I also have a 'surplus' pair a near-new rears if any of you guys want Bilsteins at half price. They were on the car for about two weeks, with few miles, when I found I could redo the originals and further customize my ride. I'd have all four if the (bonehead) shop had them available, as they had indicated.

I believe that these fit '84-'87, at least, and are of 'medium stiffness'. The stamped # is 22024066; another Bilstein reference is #441-0238 W001.

 

[tlong]

Cool on the quicker steering. A quarter inch at 80mph is 10 feet on the expressway!

Stock FE1 Bilsteins are about $70 apiece. I think I saw 4 for $300 in Mid America. Internet search may be cheaper. I think I got mine at Shox.com for $275.

Some people go through the re-valving thing with Bilstein but you don't save money. If you get the Bilsteins and put them on yourself you will be happening. Search for shocks here and the 'other' forum to make your mind up.