Cool Runnings

Is it obvious to tell if the FX3 system is working or not by test driving the vehicle and going through the three different settings?

bac22

When start the system does a power on check and if it finds a problem, it lights the Selective Ride System light on the DIC (Driver's Information Center).

In general though, most people have complained over the years that they can't tell the difference between the FX3. I've never driven a Vette with FX3, I have the F45 Selective Ride Control (96 year only) which I can tell the difference, but it uses the dreaded Delco Shocks that can't be replaced or repaired.

FASTAZU

Hope these help

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/tech/c4/fx3/

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/tags/fx3.html

Cool Runnings

Thanks, going to look a 92 (possible purchase) with FX3 soon.

billschroeder5842

It is really a seat of the pants thing. I tried adn tried to figure a way to test it but to no avalia.

I keep it on the TOUR setting as it is the softest and keeps by squeaky dash quieter.

Cool Runnings

I'm sure this car has been locked in TOUR setting most of it's life, will work for me as it's going to be a sun-shine car mainly anyhoo.

FASTAZU

If you can get it out on a concrete expressway you will be able to tell, I keep mine on sport unless on a long trip than Tour save performance for the mountains.

klandry5

So you are not able to purchase these shocks at the dealership?

I will avoid if can't fix it.....

bac22

Not sure, but I think if you could they'd be very expensive, but it is a nice system. You can replace with standard shocks should they need replacing, but then you lose the selective ride control features. Why GM went this route for 1 year in the 1996 is baffling, but that's GM.

FASTAZU

You can get the actuators rebuilt here or do it your self.
http://www.captainzcnc.com/

Shocks can still found here
http://www.shockwarehouse.com/index....cted_year=1990

bac22

Or just have Bilstein rebuild which is probably the route I'd go if I had the FX3 RPO.
http://www.bilsteinus.com/products/s...rvice/service/

aklim

I wouldn't since they are expensive shocks and I want the lifetime warranty which the rebuild, last time I checked doesn't offer. 90 day, IIRC

QZRBLU

AK is correct about the warranty being 90 days on a rebuilt shock BUT
I just contacted Mike at Bilstein Service and he informed me that they do NOT rebuild OEM FX3 shocks, only aftermarket ones. I guess the shockwarehouse is the better option for 4 new FX3 shocks with a lifetime warranty to the original owner. Direct quote from Mike Richie@ Bilstein:
"Just to be clear the OEM Delco marked FX3 shocks cannot be serviced. The aftermarket (purchased thru aftermarket distribution) Bilstein FX3 shocks (no Delco markings) can be serviced."
These guys CAN rebuild the factory FX3 shocks (https://deltavee.net/services/)
Mick

DGXR

Yes with the FX3 selective ride control, there is a distinct difference in the feel of the car among the 3 settings. My first car had it and I could not believe how dramatic the difference was.

EDIT: I don't mean to imply that the settings are "marshmallows - normal - hard as hell." But if the system is working, you can easily feel a difference.

As an alternative, you could turn on the ignition but not start the engine, then have someone go through the three settings on the interior switch while you listen closely at the shock head. I don't think the actuators make much noise but it seems you should be able to hear something when the actuators change between the settings.