which shocks for better ride?

[Driftwood]

I know I have a lot going on with my car, but today I put 235/60/15 BFG Radial T/A's all the way around. The car definitely tracks better on the road than it did with the red line plies. Now I'm interested in improving the ride/suspension and am considering changing the shocks as a start. I also want to replace the front and rear bushings, but am saving that big project for this winter. As I bought the car used, I don't know the condition or stiffness of the existing shocks. I'm not sure what types of shocks I need to use-- are gas shocks ok with the original rear spring? Any suggestions for a smooth ride? Thanks.

 

[BlackNBlue95]

I know I have a lot going on with my car, but today I put 235/60/15 BFG Radial T/A's all the way around. The car definitely tracks better on the road than it did with the red line plies. Now I'm interested in improving the ride/suspension and am considering changing the shocks as a start. I also want to replace the front and rear bushings, but am saving that big project for this winter. As I bought the car used, I don't know the condition or stiffness of the existing shocks. I'm not sure what types of shocks I need to use-- are gas shocks ok with the original rear spring? Any suggestions for a smooth ride? Thanks.

I'm not shure of what to reccomend for a smooth ride.. I like a firmer ride.. from what I have been taught by a few shock manufactures, is that smooth or softer riding shocks give you less control and that a harder or firmer riding shock provides better control but a more harsh ride..

I'm going to let someone else field this question.. but I like KYB's but I think they give more of a firmer ride..

Anyhow if you need anyhelp working on it or need any work done let me know, Thanks
-Rick

 

[bmalibu2809]

KYB makes 2 types of shocks
KYB-High pressure Gas-A-Justs - $29 from the Tire Rack
The high pressure shocks are very stiff. This is what I am using on my 82 which has FE7 suspension set-up. They are cheap for a high pressure shock so a good value IMHO.

KYB-Low pressure GR2's- less than $20 usually from anywhere
These are more matched to OEM shock valving and are softer than the Gas-A-Just shocks. They should give you a good ride without being too harsh with your OEM spring.

Others to consider are:
Bilstein Sports- $89 usual ballpark
These are similar to the KYB Gas-A-Justs but the ride is a little smoother. Most will say they are the best shock that have ever put on their vettes.

Edelbrock AIS - $120 ballpark or higher
These have a good following but are very expensive. Those who have them say they are worth the money for the ride quality and agressiveness on demand.

AC Delco, Monroe etc... Good OEM type shocks

My .02

Brent...

 

[Ala75Vette]

I've got Monroe Sensa-tracs all around, and they were a noticeable improvement over the shot originals on my '75. The car still rides like a chariot on rough roads, even with a composite rear leaf spring, but it's a lot, lot softer than when I first got it, and I don't have to wear a mouth guard to prevent tooth loss anymore... replacing the shocks made a big difference, but replacing the rear leaf spring with a VBP composite made the most difference.

 

[Driftwood]

shocks to match composite spring?

Are there certain shocks I should get or avoid in case I go to a composite rear spring this winter?

 

[bmalibu2809]

I would talk to VBP to see what shock is right for a composite spring. You can also look in the website for these guys and you should see a few recommendations.

I have also seen other catlog vendors that offer composite spring kits with shocks included. Look at these catalogs and see what they are using.

I cant really give a better answer than that. I know the KYB Gas-A-Just are not good as others have told me they had the bounce problem with these.

Brent...

 

[Ala75Vette]

I agree, you should probably call VBP (at 800-237-9991) and ask, although I expect them to recommend KYB Gas-a-just shocks, since that's their product line. Monroe sensa-tracs are functionally the same thing, and cost about the same. If you're ordering shocks and spring at the same time, may as well "consolidate" and get both from VBP. But if you're heading down to AutoZone or NAPA for this weekend's installment on fixin' up the car, there's probably a variety of shocks that'll do you well, and work just fine with an eventual composite spring addition. I don't race my car (except for the occasional testosterone fix at red lights), so a 'softer' ride is more important to me than a stiffer, race-like setup. I've got a 330-lb VBP composite spring and the monroe's and have been happy with both. Good luck in your search for a softer ride !!!!

 

[Driftwood]

I'll try KYB GR2 or Monroe Sensa-Trac

Since they're relatively inexpensive and probably softer than my existing shocks, I think I'll try whichever one of those two I find at Autozone this weekend. Then If I ever decide I want something firmer or need matching shocks for a composite spring, I'm not out too much money. Thanks for all the input.

 

[red70vette]

I replaced the Monroe's that were on my car when I bought it with AC Delco Reateak shocks they are nearly exact looking to original factory shocks and they improve ride and handling 1000% percent. These are modern gas shocks that are much better than original equipment yet look original when painted shock absorber grey.

I am trying to restore to fatory original and these do the best job for me.

 

[page62]

You'll probably find Gabriel Gas Ryder shocks at AutoZone. Those will work, too.

ANY new shock is an improvement over what's on there now. When I replaced mine (with KYB Gas-a-justs), I found one rear shock completely shot!

 

[Driftwood]

HD suspension

I should have mentioned this previously, but my vehicle has the optional F41 HD suspension. I can see I have a 7 piece leaf spring. Do I need a firmer rear shock to match the leaf (like the KYB gas-a-just), or will the KYB GR2's still be ok all the way around? I already ordered the GR2's, so I guess I can try them and see what happens, unless someone knows this is a bad idea. Thanks.

 

[SwaveDave]

I went with Bilstien Sport shocks ; very nice ride. The fiberglass rear spring helps tremendously in making the ride softer too. Next time you need tires, try the BFG 255 60R15's...they really grab and make for a softer ride.

Dave

 

[mvftw]

I just ordered the AC Delco Road Response from ZIP. I have FE7 also. I wasn't sure if Bilsteins are to stiff for NY roads...I hope I made the right choice...

 

[jsimpson]

I put good shocks on the front and the cheapest shocks I could find on the rear. Car handles well at all speeds and rides smoothly. Glass rear spring REALLY helps!