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I know the standard spring for 81 was fiberglass, mine is steel. My corvette central catalog says the exceptions are 4 speed and FE 7. Does anyone know what FE 7 stands for?
If your car has the standard suspension, consider replacing it with the Hyperco EZ Ride composite spring. The rate is almost the same as the stock steel spring (200lb/in).
If your car had the FE7 package, go with one of the higher rate composite springs (300,315 lb/in.) sold by VB&P or one of the repro houses.
If you want to use an even stiffer rear spring, you will change the understeer/oversteer characteristics of the car. That may be what you want. Or not.
I have a 81 and I had the steel spring. I like the feel of the steel spring but like you hated the noise from it. I used a VBP 300 which I then changed to a 330. The 300 was too springee for me.
I just ordered the KYB shocks. I think I will replace the bolts and bushings and live with the spring a little longer. I like the stiff ride and handling of the steel spring. Thanks to everyone for their input.