[Z06] 2001 corvette suspension
Thread Starter
1st Gear
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2001 corvette suspension
Hey everyone!
I have a 2001 Vette that I feel the suspension could use some work. It doesn't feel like its "tied" down, or "hugs", the road that well. I really don't want to have the issue cause an accident.
So I am asking for any suggestions but nothing outrageously costly either.
Thanks!
I have a 2001 Vette that I feel the suspension could use some work. It doesn't feel like its "tied" down, or "hugs", the road that well. I really don't want to have the issue cause an accident.
So I am asking for any suggestions but nothing outrageously costly either.
Thanks!
Racer
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 394
Likes: 58
From: lancaster MA
First, make sure you have good "ultra performance" tires, no run flats. Replace the shocks with newer C6 Z06's from Gene Culley or spend a little extra ($200) for '04 shocks. Then, get a 4 wheel alignment with Pfadt alignment spec's:
Front................... min /max
Camber (deg) ..... -0.7/ -0.9
Caster (deg) ...........7.5 /8.5
Toe................... -1/16" /0
Rear
Camber (deg)........ -0.4 /-0.6
Toe .......................1/16"/ 0
These settings provide performance and little tire wear - and new shocks should make the car feel more "tied down".
Front................... min /max
Camber (deg) ..... -0.7/ -0.9
Caster (deg) ...........7.5 /8.5
Toe................... -1/16" /0
Rear
Camber (deg)........ -0.4 /-0.6
Toe .......................1/16"/ 0
These settings provide performance and little tire wear - and new shocks should make the car feel more "tied down".
Last edited by zeke2u; Aug 26, 2011 at 08:40 AM.
Advanced
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 70
Likes: 0
From: San Diego CA
I replaced my stock shocks around 65K with Bilstein Sport Shocks. I also replaced the plastic sway bar end links with metal links. I then lowered it slightly on stock bolts and got an alignment. As mentioned, a good set of tires will also cause a dramatic difference. A shock replacement is something a backyard mechanic can do in an afternoon.
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 4,549
Likes: 30
From: Shenandoah Valley Virginia
You do not state a milage for your car, that would give a better idea of what might need to be done. If you have a high mile car, a complete suspension inspection would be in order. I would check the following items and replace / refurbish / upgrade as necessary based on your final goal and usage of the car. You need a firm foundation before any upgrades are attempted.
1) A arm bushings
2) All ball joints and tie rod ends
3) Sway bar bushings
4) Sway bar end links - change to metal from plastic
5) Shocks - upgrade depending on what intended usage is
6) Tires - many types available again depending on intended usage
7) Lower the car - easy to do on stock bolts
8) Alignment
the sky is the limit on upgrades based on your budget. If all the above are addressed you will have a car that handles and drives well.
1) A arm bushings
2) All ball joints and tie rod ends
3) Sway bar bushings
4) Sway bar end links - change to metal from plastic
5) Shocks - upgrade depending on what intended usage is
6) Tires - many types available again depending on intended usage
7) Lower the car - easy to do on stock bolts
8) Alignment
the sky is the limit on upgrades based on your budget. If all the above are addressed you will have a car that handles and drives well.
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