I read a thread in this forum where a fellow is changing out his FX3 system in favor of normal, gas charged shocks. Is this possible? By removing the actuators etc, won't it throw a code and possibly cause problems? I don't really need the adjustable suspension and should it ever break, I'm broke. I'd stay with a good brand shock though. Thoughts anyone? My '93 Ruby Red is pretty pure but I think regular shocks just would be better. Thanks.

 

There's an interesting in-depth article about FX3 in the June issue of Corvette Enthusiast magazine which describes how the system was engineered and also explains how it works and how to fix it. Apparently FX3 was originally engineered by Bilstein for a certain low production Porsche but only became profitable for them when Corvette adopted it. FX3 was superseded by the Delphi F45 system in 1996.

 

There are probably more FX3 C4's with normal shocks being driven around today than with the factory FX3 shocks, if this forum is any indication.
So what if you get a code? ...you won't know it unless you go looking for it.
Do it. Don't give it a second thought.

Larry
code5coupe

 

I may be interested in buying all four of your shocks and actuaters from you. Just let me know if you want to ship them and if they are currently all in good working order. Why? Future replacement parts.

B.

 

O.K. I'll be sure to let you know. I just got this car on the road last week from winter storage and having just purchased it (my 4th vette) I need to test out the ride etc. But yes, no problem in shipping and selling when and if I am ready. Why don't you email me with your name and contact info at dan.ross@fghi.com. Everything "appears" to be working fine, I just don't want the maintenance and worries of replacing a high end suspension system.

 

For you guys who changed from FX3 to gas-type, what did you use
for insulators between the shocks and the frame?

(For those of you who may not be aware, the FX3 insulators are different from the regular shock insulators. As a matter of fact, the FX3 insulators varied within the production run...something like three different iterations.)

Reason I ask is, when I took my suspension down to have my shocks rebuilt and do the Vette Brakes thing, I immediately found that all of the insulators, except for the left front, were shot. I mean, totally deteriorated.

Well, I've obtained new insulators for the rear, and new uppers for the front, but the lower (p/n 10157965) is discontinued and, according to Chris May, not been available anywhere since August.

Believe, me I've tried everybody. (Don't even ask about Eckler's, TLD, etc. I mean, I'm starting to look at people like Lord Kinematics, who make airplane engine mount isolators.)

After a lengthy conversation with Patty yesterday, turns out VB&P is selling the wrong part in their front rebuild kit. They don't know what FX3 insulators look like. Not doggin' them - just an unhappy discovery that came out in a detailed conversation.

I sent my front insulator components to Chris M for reference, and if necessary, will post a pic or two after he returns them to me.

Ideas anybody?

 

Now don't sneer at me over this. It's all relevant to use and $$$$. I called Tenneco Auto, the makers of, yes I'm going to say it, Monroe Sensa Trak gas charged shocks. The tech there told me that I did NOT need anything additional to their product as it is a direct replacedment for the FX3 system. He said simply remove the FX3's, unplug the rear harness, and install the Monroes. He said many people have used their shocks with no problems as each shock has it's own new insulators. You can call them at 734-384-7846 and get a cut sheet of the installation process. For daily driving, I would guess these are as good as any at a fraction of the cost of Bilsteins. Also, call 800-859-0923 and ask about part numbers ts5939 & ts5892 shocks.

 

Sounds like it's worth checking out. I'll give them a call.