96' LT4 Shocks
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Instructor
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 198
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From: Phoenix, AZ
96' LT4 Shocks
My 96' LT4 with standard suspension (original shocks and only 22K miles) does fine on smooth roads, but gets a little discombobulated on uneven or rough road surfaces. Do you think it would benefit from new Bilstein B6 shocks or is this just the nature of the beast? Thx
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 14,601
Likes: 747
From: NEwhere Ohio
My 96' LT4 with standard suspension (original shocks and only 22K miles) does fine on smooth roads, but gets a little discombobulated on uneven or rough road surfaces. Do you think it would benefit from new Bilstein B6 shocks or is this just the nature of the beast? Thx
i used to have a 2004 bmw 330i 6spd with zhp performance package
comparing the 2:
on a smooth dry racetrack, with the right tires, the c4 would outgrip it
however on typical tar/patch pavement. Typical Ohio roads, the BMW was so much more buttoned down to the road and more confident to drive fast.
of course its brakes were way better (in all situations) as well
my personal feeling is the transverse leaf spring telegraphs some of whats happening on the right to left side so the c4 never feels like it has truly independent suspension unless going to coil overs
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2022
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From: Florida
Change the shocks either way. The stock Bilsteins are likely shot.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: Chapel Hill NC
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Even at only 22K miles at 29 years old replacing the original shocks with just about any new shock will probably be an improvement. I never had Bilsteins but have read many favorable comments from actual owners. I think they're kind of pricey.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 6,528
Likes: 752
From: South Dakota
Another vote for the Bilsteins.
If you are undecided between the B6 or B8, I can give my recommendation. I like the B8 even on a base suspension car. I did this on my '94 and again on my '95. The ride with the B8s is firmer, but still not harsh. For me it is the ideal.
Good luck with your choices.
If you are undecided between the B6 or B8, I can give my recommendation. I like the B8 even on a base suspension car. I did this on my '94 and again on my '95. The ride with the B8s is firmer, but still not harsh. For me it is the ideal.
Good luck with your choices.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 6,528
Likes: 752
From: South Dakota
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From: LeClaire Iowa
I also got new Bilsteins for my 96. Just so everyone knows: The "lifetime" warranty only covers what you originally paid for the shock. I got in a huge argument with them when I had one go bad 5 years after buying. It cost me over 50 bucks for my warranty replacement. Yes, I am aware it does not say that in the written warranty. There should be a class action suit. Dan