Shock Absorber Test
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Racer
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 488
Likes: 2
From: Fort Lauderdale Florida
Shock Absorber Test
How do you know when you NEED new shocks?
I know I want new shocks based purely on performance upgrade mods but I don't know if I NEED them. I have 95k on original stocks and just by that I think it's "time" but I don't "feel" based on driving conditions that I NEED new shocks.
Just purchased 04 Z06 sway bars and plan on buying 04 Z06 shocks next week.
Is there any kind of rule of thumb, etc.?
I know I want new shocks based purely on performance upgrade mods but I don't know if I NEED them. I have 95k on original stocks and just by that I think it's "time" but I don't "feel" based on driving conditions that I NEED new shocks.
Just purchased 04 Z06 sway bars and plan on buying 04 Z06 shocks next week.
Is there any kind of rule of thumb, etc.?
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,799
Likes: 1
From: Dayton Ohio
A very long time ago, I was told to push down on one corner a few times to get it oscillating...then let go. If it doesn't stop w/in ~ one cycle, you need new shocks. It's not a very scientific method, and I wouldn't recommend trying that on an SMC/urethane car.
Besides, I'm sure that you need new ones by now.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 2,956
Likes: 2
From: Indianapolis In
A very long time ago, I was told to push down on one corner a few times to get it oscillating...then let go. If it doesn't stop w/in ~ one cycle, you need new shocks. It's not a very scientific method, and I wouldn't recommend trying that on an SMC/urethane car.
Besides, I'm sure that you need new ones by now.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,190
Likes: 0
From: Fayetteville AR
Its had to tell when you need new shocks when you get use to your old shocks slowly wearing out. As a good rule of thumb (IMO) I would replace any factory shock around 40K to 50K miles. I replaced my shocks with only 30K on the clock and it was one of the best mods I have done. I went from the stock z51 shocks to Bilstein HD shocks. They are slightly firmer than stock but they control the car much better; less wheel hop, corners little better, interstate overpass much improved. Now once you put a quality aftermarket shock on (IMO) you will be able to go longer before you need another replacement (75K? maybe more).
