2004 Z06 Shocks for C5
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,677
Likes: 0
From: I have to return some videotapes
I have been following this thread very closely along with another as I too am planning to upgrade my 99 Z51 setup(19,256 miles). I spoke to Shawn, owner of Orange County Corvettes for some expert advice as he is a well acknowledged "Suspension Guru". First, he said regarding the factory ZO6 shocks that the best factory performers for the C5's are the 04 ZO6 models that were manufactured by a well known manufacturer(at least in the oem suspension world), although I cannot remember their name. Second, he said that C6 ZO6 shocks will increase ride height. Third, and a good point, when using the 04 ZO6 shocks that they will perform better when using the 04 ZO6 springs due to valving calibration. His answers were based on my needs of having a car that will handle the twisties extremely well, yet deliver good ride quality with Michelin Pilot Sports. BTW, this is with ZO6 sway bars, factory bushings, 04 ZO6 end links. Shawn was extremely helpful in explaining the engineering and setup of a properly setup suspension. Many of us will never push our cars to their limits, but like most of you I am looking to upgrade. We also discussed corner-weighting the car and the proper "rake angle" for high speed stability. As for what I will do, I am thinking Pfadt coilovers and Hotchkis sway bars with 04 ZO6 end links. This in Shawn's opinion, is a versatile and strong performing combination, yet very cost effective when compared to other setups costing considerably more to achieve the same level of performance. Different strokes for different folks 
I hope this post did not offend anybodies choices of components, I am merely stating the information relative to me and my desired results which may be similar to some of you
I hope this post did not offend anybodies choices of components, I am merely stating the information relative to me and my desired results which may be similar to some of you IIRC, the 04 Z06 shocks are made by Sachs.
Thanks for relaying the info, as this is a question I'm currently considering. I'm not ready for the investment in coilovers, and I'm leaning toward the 04Zs for much the same reasons you cited despite their higher price vs. the C6Zs.
Were the Z06 springs changed for '04 as well?
I was under the impression that only the shocks were updated, in which case my '00 Z51 has the same front spring rate and only slightly softer rear.
Racer
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 315
Likes: 1
From: Canton GA.
I been watching this thing on shocks for over a year now and I need to replace mine. The 04 z06 shocks are made by Sach, now who makes the 06Z06 shocks. I been asking that question and getting nowhere.
Got to be some reason why the price for the 04 is that much higher.
My be if we can find what country the 06z06 shocks are made in might help. Soneone got to have some information.
Got to be some reason why the price for the 04 is that much higher.
My be if we can find what country the 06z06 shocks are made in might help. Soneone got to have some information.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 8,475
Likes: 332
From: Port Arthur, Texas 77642
IIRC, the 04 Z06 shocks are made by Sachs.
Thanks for relaying the info, as this is a question I'm currently considering. I'm not ready for the investment in coilovers, and I'm leaning toward the 04Zs for much the same reasons you cited despite their higher price vs. the C6Zs.
Were the Z06 springs changed for '04 as well?
I was under the impression that only the shocks were updated, in which case my '00 Z51 has the same front spring rate and only slightly softer rear.
Thanks for relaying the info, as this is a question I'm currently considering. I'm not ready for the investment in coilovers, and I'm leaning toward the 04Zs for much the same reasons you cited despite their higher price vs. the C6Zs.
Were the Z06 springs changed for '04 as well?
I was under the impression that only the shocks were updated, in which case my '00 Z51 has the same front spring rate and only slightly softer rear.
Racer
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 315
Likes: 1
From: Canton GA.
Of all you guys that installed the 06z06 shocks nowhere was the name of the country they were made in. Maybe Gene from Gmpartshouse can spread some light.
I found last night an artical of C-5 / C-5Z06 and what manufactors are makeing the partsfor the Corvettes. Sachs for shocks. I also have a picture of the C6 same as the C5 and guest what no name for shocks.
I sure they are good shocks, but why is the manufactor name hard to find out. Or maybe who it is are giving GM a special price and the aftermarket they are much higher.
I found last night an artical of C-5 / C-5Z06 and what manufactors are makeing the partsfor the Corvettes. Sachs for shocks. I also have a picture of the C6 same as the C5 and guest what no name for shocks.
I sure they are good shocks, but why is the manufactor name hard to find out. Or maybe who it is are giving GM a special price and the aftermarket they are much higher.
