C5 Buildup
Thread Starter
7th Gear
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 7
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C5 Buildup
Hey all. I bought a 1998 Burgundy (Toreador Red Metallic?) coupe with Firethorn Red interior a few months back and have been looking at upgrading the suspension before all else. I'm looking to get superior cornering and grip without sacrificing a lot of ride comfort...this thing is not likely to see much time at the track. I've searched around some threads, and I think I can eliminate the Z51 and ZO6 options, as there seems to be better stuff for less money. I've looked into BMR, GM's T1 suspension, Hotchkiss, Pfadt, and others. Hotchkiss seems to offer the best of what I'm looking for, but was curious as to other people's perceptions. Any shock/coil/swaybar/bushing combos that anybody could recommend? I'm pretty sure I'm on a bone stock suspension, because even with staggered ZO6 rims the tail slides out if I take any kind of speed into a turn at a street corner or stoplight. Hence, we're talkin' clean slate here. Appreciate any comments.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 2,857
Likes: 234
From: SW Nuh Hampsha
2018 C5 of Year Finalist
I also upgraded my '98 base suspension, but stayed with original GM parts and couldn't be happier.
C6 Z51 shocks, C6 Z51 sway bars w/aluminum links. Lowered as much as the stock bolts allow. The difference in handling is phenomenal and ride comfort has not been compromised at all. Retail price for these parts would be around $570. I found these parts, lightly used, for $325. Installation can be done at home on jackstands.
You could go a step further and opt for the C6 Z06 shocks and bars, and change out your springs for C5 Z06 items. Your ride comfort may vary.
C6 Z51 shocks, C6 Z51 sway bars w/aluminum links. Lowered as much as the stock bolts allow. The difference in handling is phenomenal and ride comfort has not been compromised at all. Retail price for these parts would be around $570. I found these parts, lightly used, for $325. Installation can be done at home on jackstands.
You could go a step further and opt for the C6 Z06 shocks and bars, and change out your springs for C5 Z06 items. Your ride comfort may vary.
Life Time NCM #2196
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 82,586
Likes: 1,697
From: Converse TX
I also upgraded my '98 base suspension, but stayed with original GM parts and couldn't be happier.
C6 Z51 shocks, C6 Z51 sway bars w/aluminum links. Lowered as much as the stock bolts allow. The difference in handling is phenomenal and ride comfort has not been compromised at all. Retail price for these parts would be around $570. I found these parts, lightly used, for $325. Installation can be done at home on jackstands.
You could go a step further and opt for the C6 Z06 shocks and bars, and change out your springs for C5 Z06 items. Your ride comfort may vary.
C6 Z51 shocks, C6 Z51 sway bars w/aluminum links. Lowered as much as the stock bolts allow. The difference in handling is phenomenal and ride comfort has not been compromised at all. Retail price for these parts would be around $570. I found these parts, lightly used, for $325. Installation can be done at home on jackstands.
You could go a step further and opt for the C6 Z06 shocks and bars, and change out your springs for C5 Z06 items. Your ride comfort may vary.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 2,939
Likes: 7
From: Simpsonville SC
St. Jude Donor '09-'10
I installed the Pfadt Coil Overs, Street Sway bars, solid motor mounts, and Differential brace. I also installed the 3/8" Tunnel Plate, and it stiffened up my car a lot. I love the feel and handling of my car now.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 43,084
Likes: 33
From: Raleigh / Rolesville NC
Hey all. I bought a 1998 Burgundy (Toreador Red Metallic?) coupe with Firethorn Red interior a few months back and have been looking at upgrading the suspension before all else. I'm looking to get superior cornering and grip without sacrificing a lot of ride comfort.
..this thing is not likely to see much time at the track. I've searched around some threads, and I think I can eliminate the Z51 and ZO6 options, as there seems to be better stuff for less money. I've looked into BMR, GM's T1 suspension, Hotchkiss, Pfadt, and others. Hotchkiss seems to offer the best of what I'm looking for, but was curious as to other people's perceptions. Any shock/coil/swaybar/bushing combos that anybody could recommend? I'm pretty sure I'm on a bone stock suspension, because even with staggered ZO6 rims the tail slides out if I take any kind of speed into a turn at a street corner or stoplight. Hence, we're talkin' clean slate here. Appreciate any comments.
next have your shocks check. Many times shocks are not equal and need to be replaced.
the stock suspension is EXCELLENT if your not going to the track
next would be the Z06 suspension.
the T1 is way to stiff for street driving. I know I have it for my track car.
