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

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Old Oct 18, 2018 | 12:35 PM
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Hi, I have a 1992 Corvette that my daughter and I are working on, not sure if I have a Z-51 suspension on it or not, have not found sticker yet that might tell me and don't know by looking at the suspension. Would it matter if I got the Z-51 shocks all around either way?
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Old Oct 18, 2018 | 01:48 PM
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Hi, from Abbotsford NZ. Have you checked the RPO codes? Z51 package is code 1BL
Personally I wouldn't mix the Z51 spec shocks with the standard suspension, you would likely find the suspension would be over damped. JMPO someone may chime in who has tried this and can give you a verdict.
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Old Oct 18, 2018 | 01:50 PM
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It won't matter if you use the Z51 shocks to replace what is on there currently.

IF you do happen to have the FE1 base suspension, the Z51 shocks will firm up the ride a minimal amount.
Will
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Old Oct 18, 2018 | 05:05 PM
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Thanks Will. That's kind of what I thought from my research online and in this forum. Appreciate it!!
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Old Oct 20, 2018 | 11:35 AM
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I have put the Z51 bilstein shocks on base suspension cars. I like it better than the base shocks. They are a little firmer, but still not harsh. It just feels a little more "planted" to me.

I did this on my '94 and liked it, so I did it again when I got my '95.

The Z51 shocks have the same length fully extended or compressed, except that the fronts can go a little more compressed than the base shocks.

Good luck with you choice.
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Old Oct 20, 2018 | 05:05 PM
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Thanks a lot!!
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Old Oct 22, 2018 | 11:18 AM
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My 1995 has the FE1 base suspension. I don't know if the spring rates are the same as a 1992 base (or maybe you have the Z51). Anyway my Bilsteins were busted and I replaced them with the standard B6 "performance" Bilsteins that my car had from the factory. The ride is comfortable but more floaty than I wanted... wish I had gone with the B8 Bilsteins. But my life is full of high quality problems so I just enjoy the car. Hope this helps you.
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Old Oct 22, 2018 | 06:15 PM
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Another vote for using the Z51 shocks either way.

One real quick thing - if the car has 13" front brake rotors its almost guaranteed to have the handling (Z51) package.
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Old Oct 23, 2018 | 05:34 AM
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I have the Z51 suspension and had the OEM Bilsteins on my 1996 GrandSport. I recently replaced them with the Ridetech adjustable shocks and I am very happy with them.
Adjust them firm for great handling or soft for a smoother ride. Just another choice which works well!
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Old Oct 23, 2018 | 09:24 PM
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i put the non-z51 bilsteins (hd i believe) on my base 86 and its too floaty. wish i had put z51 bilsteins on.
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Old Oct 31, 2018 | 03:06 PM
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The RPO codes on a 92 are on the bottom side on the console lid.
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Old Nov 1, 2018 | 08:53 AM
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Z51 stopped in 91 resumed for 96. 92 -95 went to Z07 which used electric shocks. IDK if there is advantage to z51 vs base Bilsteins replacement shocks, unless car is lowered. Bilstein recommends Z51 shocks for lowered C4s. The replacement shocks are not the same as the OEM. Replacements are multiple year or semi generic. OEM are many times year and model specific or different part numbers for different years and options.
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Old May 28, 2019 | 08:23 PM
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c6zo6 penske dbl adjustable track day use
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