C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Replacement Shocks

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Old Dec 31, 2009 | 01:37 PM
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Default Replacement Shocks

I'm about ready to ditch the F45 setup on my car and replace them with a new, more conventional setup.

My initial choice was a set of Bilstein Sports, but my mechanic (only works on Corvettes) said you can get a set of KYB's for far less money and they are just as good.

Not quite sure which model he was talking about (GR2'd, etc.), but has does anyone run the KYB's on their car?

Comments / feedback?
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Old Dec 31, 2009 | 02:56 PM
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Originally Posted by Driver84
I'm about ready to ditch the F45 setup on my car and replace them with a new, more conventional setup.

My initial choice was a set of Bilstein Sports, but my mechanic (only works on Corvettes) said you can get a set of KYB's for far less money and they are just as good.

Not quite sure which model he was talking about (GR2'd, etc.), but has does anyone run the KYB's on their car?

Comments / feedback?
I replaced my Bilsteins with KYB's several years ago. The Bilsteins were well worn and the KYB's were brand new. The KYB'S have about 70,000 miles on them now and still work well for my daily driver (50 miles a day, seven days a week).

Wait for additional comments.
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Old Dec 31, 2009 | 02:59 PM
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I have a '93 couple with the "Standard" suspension. I just replace my old Bilsteins with KYBs and they are great. My mechanic is a knowledgeable guy and, when I told him that I bought KYBs, his response was "Good choice". I'm happy with them and the price was right.

Hope this helps.

Norm.
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Old Dec 31, 2009 | 05:22 PM
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Did all KYB'S and they are fine
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Old Dec 31, 2009 | 06:06 PM
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Originally Posted by Driver84
My initial choice was a set of Bilstein Sports
I am REAL happy with my rebuilt, original Bilsteins, revalved by them to Challenge specifications.

I even have a pair of near-new listed at half price on one of these forums.
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Old Jan 1, 2010 | 08:40 PM
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Default replacement shocks

Replaced mine with KYB's and, along with the BFG z-force tires, it rides better than most.
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Old Jan 1, 2010 | 09:06 PM
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What is it that causes the car to sound like it is hitting things when you ride over a speed bump or ruff road? The shocks, or would that be the spring?
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Old Jan 1, 2010 | 09:45 PM
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^^Rubber being gone would cause that. Check all your bushings

OP, KYBs are just fine. And what...for ~$160 for all four you can afford to "not like them" after you buy them.
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 10:00 AM
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Which KYB model are you all running?
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 10:24 AM
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From what I've read, I'd just go with KYB. Plus I've read the ride would be not as harsh.
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 11:32 AM
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Originally Posted by Driver84
Which KYB model are you all running?
There is only one that fits the Vette.

One part number for the front and one part number for the rear. check out any of the corvette parts specialist and you'll get that part number.

THEN....google that part number and you'll find the least expensive retailer of that part.

I found an internet retailer right here in Irvine.......they were so rigid and used to selling and shipping that they had no way of handling a will call or walk in sale.......it was pathetic but cheap.

I ordered and it still took three days for them to ship.

That told me everything....they got my order, then turned around and ordered the shocks from KYB...then shipped when UPS shipped it to them.....That is why they didn't allow me to drive over there......prolly some guys house.
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 11:56 AM
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Why are you ditching the F45's, I think it is way better than standard.
I have KYB's and for 40k miles they were good, but now I am thinking of going back to Bilstein's.

Last edited by surfer92; Jan 4, 2010 at 12:01 PM.
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 12:07 PM
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Ride quality isn't all that important to me...If it was I'd be driving a Town Car. What I want to know is if the KYB's are every bit as good as the Bilsteins when it comes down to performance / handling...
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 12:09 PM
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bilstiens are great for performance IMO
KYB's are good for driving IMO

My next shocks will be the QA1's

search in here
http://www.jegs.com/i/QA1/122/TC1958P/10002/-1
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 12:24 PM
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Had Bilsteins...went to KYB...GOING BACK to Bilsteins(revalved)
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 01:35 PM
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^^you don't say why.......
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 03:09 PM
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What kind of life can you expect from Bilsteins? I have a 96 and they are probably the same ones that came with the car. It currently has 87,000 miles.
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 04:41 PM
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Originally Posted by jhammons01
^^you don't say why.......
KYB's were to harsh...I could get Bilsteins performance valved the way I wanted. Much better street/track shock. The KYB's weren't even a good street shock IMHO
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 06:31 PM
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Originally Posted by NMsharkracer
KYB's were to harsh...I could get Bilsteins performance valved the way I wanted. Much better street/track shock. The KYB's weren't even a good street shock IMHO
Hmm. I've always heard the KYBs were a softer ride than the Bilsteins.
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Old Jan 4, 2010 | 07:44 PM
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Originally Posted by Wathen1955
What kind of life can you expect from Bilsteins? I have a 96 and they are probably the same ones that came with the car. It currently has 87,000 miles.

Wrathen.

I bought my car with 135,000 miles on it and the Bilsteins were shot. If your car seems to "Float" going over speedbumps, yours are shot. If they are still firm, I wouldn't worry too much right now but I'd put new shocks on the "To do" list before 100,000. (Just my humble opine).

Hope this helps.

Norm.
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