bc6152

I ordered and received a window sticker for my 1998 convertible from the NCM. One option on the sticker is "continuously variable real time damping". I googled this and found it has to do with the computer continuously making adjustments to the suspension. Would this also be the "active handling" package? It was $1695.00 in 1998.


I would appreciate a layman's explanation from those of you with knowledge of this option.


As always, thanks for the help...

bc6152

Very good explanation of these two options plus the video.


Thank you kindly...

Tsumi

I can definitely feel a difference between touring and performance mode on my F45 system. The car leans less in turns and is stiffer over bumps in performance mode. Since mine is a daily driver, I would know almost instantly if I forgot to take it out of performance mode on the highway.

bc6152

This is interesting. I'll try switching in and out and see if I can determine a difference. Thanks for the post...

Tsumi

The other thing to note is that the F45 shocks tend to wear out quickly. Some people report leaking shocks at 40k miles, others at 80k miles, and so on. Mine is right around 68k miles. The difference isn't huge but it is there. I think it is more noticeable with the C6 Z51 sway bars I installed.

I plan to upgrade to the F55 system, which is supposed to be better than the F45 system. Just need to find either the harness or parts to make the harness.

Bill Curlee

Some HATE the F-45 system,, SOME LOVE it. I had it on my 98 MN6 Coupe and HATED every single minute of it. If you ever drive some ones C5 with a Z51 or ZO6 suspension, you will see what I am referring to.

F-55 System. MUCH Better than the F-45. It seems to perform much better.

Its coupled with the BASE FE-1 (softest suspension) and does NOT hold a candle to any purpose built performance C5 suspension (Z-51, ZO6 etc.. )

I have helped several people eliminate the F-45 system using the GM Tech2 and just adding the GM OEM C6 ZO6 Shocks to the car (bolt right in) made them VERY HAPPY with the improved handling.

Bill

bc6152

Thanks a lot for the info. I really haven't driven the car that much since last July. I went abroad in August and then Fall came. I'll keep your mod in mind for later Bill. Good info...

bc6152

I have helped several people eliminate the F-45 system using the GM Tech2 and just adding the GM OEM C6 ZO6 Shocks to the car (bolt right in) made them VERY HAPPY with the improved handling.


You've piqued my interest in changing the suspension in my '98.
If I understand correctly, what you're suggesting is simply an electronic delete of the F45 option and just installing the C6 Z06 shocks (saw them for $277.00) which would have no electronic connections. No F55 kit installation necessary... Thanks again...

Tsumi

Depends on what you are looking for. Electric shocks give you the ability to adjust on the fly, but you pay for it. C6 Z06 shocks will give you better handling while making your ride stiffer/firmer. Alternatively, C6 Z51 and C6 base shocks are also available, with the base shocks being soft ride oriented and Z51 slotting in between.

Resistors are an electronic "defeat" device for F45. Using a Tech 2 means reprogramming the car computer to not check for F45 shocks.