lt4 shock replacement question
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,302
Likes: 2
From: colchester CT
lt4 shock replacement question
I am going to be changing out all the front suspension on my 96 lt4. all the bushings are shot, the ball joints boots are torn and tie rod boots as well. I am thinking I will just do everything as I have recently done this to my old 86 and it's one of the few things I know how to do right. I will also do the hub assemblies while I am in there as they have a lot of play. The car has 90k or so on it so I don't mind. anyway, I know this car had f 45 selective suspension. I can't tell the difference between the settings. The bushings on the shocks are just about gone so I figure I will replace them. To replace with original is an insane cost. I used KYB on my 86 and loved them. Question is, can I just take out the originals and throw in some KYB's? How will this effect the original selective control? I don't really care about that system as I don't race or autocross and since I will have everything else off, I would like to do the shocks as well. what do you guys think about eliminating this system, is it worth keeping? I am not worried about keeping the car original, just want to tighten it up and have it drive as nice as my 86 did after I replaced everything. Thanks
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 933
Likes: 383
Yes, you can remove the F45 shocks and replace them with KYBs. You will get an occasional "service selective ride control" light on the DIC, but you can install shock simulator plugs (available from various vendors) in the eight connectors (two per wheel) to keep the light from coming on. Search the forum to find other ways members have come up with to stop the light from coming on.
I removed my F45 shocks and installed KYBs and I think they are a bit too soft, but many on the forum do like the soft ride.
I removed my F45 shocks and installed KYBs and I think they are a bit too soft, but many on the forum do like the soft ride.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 2,351
Likes: 222
From: Delta B.C. Canada
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Just disconnect the plug from the SRC module in the compartment behind the driver seat. (Disconnect battery first).
Keep all the actuators, clips etc, for possible sale or re-install.
Keep all the actuators, clips etc, for possible sale or re-install.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,302
Likes: 2
From: colchester CT
I used kyb in my 86 and liked it. I have never tried any other so I don't know the difference. The Bilstein seem to offer a stiffer ride for better handling. I am interested in a smoother, more comfortable ride. My last question is what to do with all the sensors attached to the shocks. Do you just leave everything in place and swap out the shocks? I would pull the bulb just as I pulled the bulb for the tire pressure sensor so i don't have to look at it. looks like a lot of stuff connected to the shocks. I will save everything just in case but I think I am going to remove it and just run the kyb's. thanks for the replies
