Millennium FRC

I haven't been able to get a single recommendation after a few days in the C5 Tech section so I figured I'd ask here.

I just purchased a 2000 FRC a few weeks back. I want to work on the suspension first before anything else. It still has the stock Z51 springs. This car probably won't see a track more than a few times a year. This will be my daily driver but I don't care about ride quality. Amazing handling and getting rid of the annoying "jack hammer" effect when going over bumps is first priority.


From the great things I've read about them, and the cheap prices from TireRack, I'm leaning towards Bilstein Sport shocks, part# 24-011778 (front) and 24-011785 (rear). Opinions on these shocks?


So my main question is, what sway bars do you guys recommend to go with stock Z51 springs and Bilstein Sport shocks?


Thanks.

VetteDrmr

I've got a '00 FRC, and have tried a friend's stock 97 (non-Z51) with Bilstein Sport Shocks vs mine with Z51 shocks. His was a stiffer ride, but didn't seem to handle any better on the back roads than mine.

Then I changed out mine at 100K miles to a set of '04 Z06 shocks. A stiffer ride, didn't seem quite as stiff as the Bilsteins. However, the car handled much better at my autocross events, which were held on some fairly bumpy asphalt.

I think that, if you want to stay with non-adjustable shocks, either the Bilsteins or '04 Z06 shocks (are they even available anymore?) will suit you fine.

If you want to go adjustable, then it's a brave new world.

HTH, and have a good one,
Mike

acroy

Highly recommend the T1 bars;
DRM-valved Bilstein shocks have a great reputation.
Then invest in seat time! Have fun!

Bad Karma

I am very happy with my Van Steel sway bars, adjustable front and rear. I have them paired with Doug Rippie valved Bilsteins on my Z06 and like the setup.

Matt_27

The proven, multiple time SCCA winning street/stock class C5 setup is single adjustable Koni shocks with a Stranoparts 1-5/16" front sway bar. Bilstein shocks whether DRM valved or not simply do not provide enough damping force for best handling and are non-adjustable. Adding proper damping and roll control with those two products makes a huge difference in handling, second only to sticky tires.

Millennium FRC

How do you guys feel about the Hotchkis sport sway bars with the Bilstein Sports and Z51 springs?

Moto One

I'v had great luck with Hotchkis bars, and the Bilstein's are a good choice, as for the Jack Hamer bounce? Make sure that your not to low and riding on the bump stops first. You would be amazed at how a 3/4 raise will return control to your suspension.

But if you can go for he Koni Sports you do get some tuning ability.

Mark

93Rubie

You can actually go fast or feel like it. Proven setups are the way to go.

Koni is my vote. I've put a set on both my sports cars. (Corvette and Miata).

klodkrawler05

Just like I mentioned in the other thread. Try giving Sam a call http://www.stranoparts.com/

He's had some part in most all of the fast autox c5's on this forum and will be able to help you chose a setup based on what actually works.

If you're just looking to slap the cheapest parts on your car be prepared to spend the money a second time when you upgrade again.

Reggie Dunlop

Are you Autocrossing or running a road course?
If road course, I've run the Sports and the DRM version and don't believe a novice will notice the difference between the two. My next move was to the RideTech HQs. Once you understand how adjustments affect your car's performance I doubt you would switch back to nonadjustable shocks. I can not comment on the Autocrossing as I do not participate in those.

Millennium FRC

This is my first Chevy that doesn't handle like a wheel barrow full of bricks (late 60's Chevelles and Camaros) so I plan on hitting the road course at least once but I can't predict how often I'll do it because I never have before. Not sure if I'll love it or not.

Maybe I should hit the track once and see? If I'm an instant addict, wait and save for some coil overs or a T1 set up.

klodkrawler05

If you've never been to a track ever the stock Z51 parts don't suck. try it out and see how you like it before deciding how much you're willing to spend.

That will make the biggest difference in the recommendations you get.

AND0

High Pressure gas shocks like the Bilsteins and I assume like the factory shocks do require a little break in time before they smooth out a bit.
Low pressure konis are pretty much the same from the start,
so for a fair comparison give them some drive time