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Top Flight got a good sale going on and am contemplating a set of shocks. My plan for my car is to "eventually" get a set of completely correct shocks that would be kept for shows, possible judging, etc. Meantime I want a set that will be used as regular drivers that will ride nice. Was originally thinking these:
There is also a similar set of Bilsteins for a few bucks more labeled as heavy duty but am presuming I don't want those...car is an 1969 L46 with regular suspension.
My view is 40 bucks more or so per shock isn't a ton of money for a part that will have a significant impact on ride quality. What say you? those first gas shocks good enough? Or go with the Bilstein's. As an aside...don't like the bright yellow aspect but they won't be seen on the street.
If the black shocks meet show criteria buy them..ac delco gas junk fyi IMO. https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...nt-advice.html
bilsteins are fine but be aware made mx now.
i also bought my bilsteins on top flight sale and ra when supply tight.
also notefront bilstein install video incorrect noted in post 15
that’s the pronto version..
if more time I would also consider other 🇺🇸 oprions.
Last edited by interpon; Mar 25, 2023 at 09:11 AM.
If the black shocks meet show criteria buy them..ac delco gas junk fyi IMO. https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...nt-advice.html
bilsteins are fine but be aware made mx now.
i also bought my bilsteins on top flight sale and ra when supply tight.
that’s the pronto version..
if more time I would also consider other 🇺🇸 oprions.
Thanks. not looking for show shocks...those will be big buck correct date coded set I will get later. Right now looking for a good riding setup.
I have Bilsteins HD’s on my 1970 with standard suspension I like them. I just change over to QA1 adjustment shocks I’m looking forward too see if I tell the difference between the shocks.
Can anyone weigh in on the Bilstein sport vs HD versions. Guessing the HD a stiffer and less desirable ride (for many) for an L46 with no A/C, no pwr brakes...?? I realize some may simply prefer a stiffer ride in general...but would the HD yield tighter handling...cornering etc? Possibly at sacrifice of some comfort? But..it a sports car..not a Caddilac.
I’m not sure the average Corvette owner, driving responsibly on the street, would notice any difference between any shocks available today. On a track, or a person driving irresponsibly on the street, might detect a Bilstein is better than a stock shock. On my 77 I used Bilstein, with composite springs, rear sway bar, etc….and on the roads I drive at the speed I drive,….the car is on rails and blast to drive…..but again, I drive responsibly, not like an irresponsible teenager.
Given your path in this car, I would seek out the “correct” shocks…..NOS or used and sacrifice best handling. Otherwise buy cheapest shocks and paint them gray or whatever color they were.
I'm thinking QA1 single adjustable shocks front and rear; then dial it in at all four corners. Many have a different sense of what is a soft vs harsh ride. Taking the quesswork out of it might be more satisfying and less expensive in the long run.
Wanting input on shock selection pronto
