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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 10:37 AM
  #1  
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Default Shocks

Hi, my base 99 C-5 vert came with regular shocks correct ? I'm looking to replace them since the previous owner said he thinks they may be original. He only owned it two years and didn't change them.

I want the best shocks for ride comfort since I will not be tracking this car in any way. Just driving it and enjoying. Can you help me out with some answers please.

Thanks, Tom
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 10:53 AM
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Originally Posted by ZigZag
Hi, my base 99 C-5 vert came with regular shocks correct ? I'm looking to replace them since the previous owner said he thinks they may be original. He only owned it two years and didn't change them.

I want the best shocks for ride comfort since I will not be tracking this car in any way. Just driving it and enjoying. Can you help me out with some answers please.

Thanks, Tom
Contact Gene Culley at gmpartshouse.com at 484-949-2099 (forum member and sponsor). C6, Z is an updated shock from a c6 "Z"...and priced right.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 01:48 PM
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Originally Posted by 8VETTE7
You should check the list of RPO's on the car and see if F45 is listed. If F45 is listed then you can't just install a non F45 shock unless:

1) a previous owner has installed either resistors or simulators or had the F45 RPO programmed out of the BCM

2) You are willing to have the top speed of the car limited to 80 MPH along with a message showing in the DIC that states that.

List of RPO's for a 99 should be on the glove box door.

If you don't have RPO F45 then you can use the C6Zo6 shocks or any after market shock you like.
SOB, the glove box one is scraped up and I can't see all the numbers. Is there another place to see these ?
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 01:56 PM
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Originally Posted by ZigZag
SOB, the glove box one is scraped up and I can't see all the numbers. Is there another place to see these ?
If you have f45 shocks you will have the selective ride switch in the center console.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 02:12 PM
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Originally Posted by dblerman
If you have f45 shocks you will have the selective ride switch in the center console.
Okay, I don't have any switch there except T/C button. Thanks

Originally Posted by 8VETTE7
You should check the list of RPO's on the car and see if F45 is listed. If F45 is listed then you can't just install a non F45 shock unless:

1) a previous owner has installed either resistors or simulators or had the F45 RPO programmed out of the BCM

2) You are willing to have the top speed of the car limited to 80 MPH along with a message showing in the DIC that states that.

List of RPO's for a 99 should be on the glove box door.

If you don't have RPO F45 then you can use the C6Zo6 shocks or any after market shock you like.
Thank you for the info.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 04:05 PM
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I just used Pfadt shocks and the Stage One Package. It handles much better. I have 58,000 miles and am happy with change.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 06:50 PM
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Don't over complicate it . . get the ones from NAPA- they'll be just like the OEM ones when the car was new and reasonably priced.

I thought I wanted better handling and put on Bilsteins . . good handling, harder ride.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 07:26 PM
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Bilstein shocks are very popular for OEM replacements. You'll enjoy a better ride and they'll last longer

http://www.shop.jwmotoring.com/produ...&categoryId=64
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 07:50 PM
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Default I used lightly used Z06 shocks and FE3 Sway Bars on my 98 Vert

Sways made the most difference. Z06 C5 shocks stiffer than stock.
If you go to C6 its stiffer yet. Might want to NOT do that. Mine are a slight bit harsh but control is better.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 08:10 PM
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Originally Posted by ZigZag
I want the best shocks for ride comfort since I will not be tracking this car in any way. Just driving it and enjoying. Can you help me out with some answers please.

Thanks, Tom
I replaced my C5 base suspension shocks with C6Z shocks, and sways but one went bad after only 7500 miles so I put my OEM base suspension shocks back on. The C6Z shocks are firmer but handle better and the rebound on wash board surface is much better keeping the car planted (doesn't hop over them). The OEM shocks are softer (smoother) so you either get better handling with C6Z or smoother ride with C5 OEM. Sounds like you want base OEM for comfort.
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 08:10 PM
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I went with C6 Z06 shocks and C6 Z51 Sways and metal end links. They are less than 600 shipped from parts Taxi. Love the upgrade!
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 08:32 PM
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koni fsd is probably your best option if you want a controlled but comfortable option. step up from oem

c6z shocks are popular mostly because they are a good shock and cheap. they just happen to be valved for more spring than the base car has

also keep in mind base ac delco shocks are available around $100 per shock. this is the real oem replacement
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 08:42 PM
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I upgraded my 2000 Z51 Coupe with C6 Z06 Shocks and installed metal end links on the sways while we wear at it. Love the better handling,,,ride is better too. My stock shocks were worn out!
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Old Jun 21, 2013 | 08:49 PM
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Thanks for all the help guys. I forgot to mention that all four end links are toast also. The bushings are crumbling to pieces so they'll need replacing. And yes I'm in for a softer ride, this is just going to be a cruiser.
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Old Jun 22, 2013 | 02:21 AM
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Originally Posted by Silverbullet00
I upgraded my 2000 Z51 Coupe with C6 Z06 Shocks and installed metal end links on the sways while we wear at it. Love the better handling,,,ride is better too. My stock shocks were worn out!
I decided to do my 00 Z51 all at once. C6zo6 shocks, c6z51 sway bars, and c5z06 rear spring.
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Old Jun 23, 2013 | 08:34 AM
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Well I ended up ordering the C6 Z06 shocks + the C6 Z06 metal sway bar end link set. The prices where right and they are an upgrade from what's on there now for sure.
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Old Jun 23, 2013 | 08:49 AM
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Good decision.
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