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I have a 2000 convertible with the Z51 option. I am considering buying a set of Z06 sway bars. Is this a worthwhile upgrade and will they noticeably improve the cars handling? Thanks.
Hi Robert, and welcome to the forum. I don't want to sound like I'm jumping on you but this has been discussed more than once. If you could do a search on the term suspension or swaybar, you would probably find mountains of info. Also, the term "worthwhile" is in the eyes of the beholder. For $900 bucks, its not reasonable. For $100 its a steal. If you like a firmer ride and flatter cornering, its a must. Please feel free to PM me and I'll be happy to tell you more than you want to know.
I installed the front z06 bar on my 01 with z51 package. I also installed all 4 aluminum end links. The front had metal links and the rear had plastic links from factory. The bar improved cornering and did not change the ride firmness at all. I would highly recommend this mod. Later on I installed the poly bushings on the bar, no noticeable improvement in handling but it got rid of the squeaking since it has a special lube. Go for it! A year later I changed to Bilstein HD shocks - what a difference! The HD are slightly firmer than the z51 shocks but they control the car much better on all roads and at all speeds! I would do the bars and shocks at the same time if I did it again.
Yes it's worth it. If you're doing shocks, the Z06 shocks will make your vette handle better at the cost of ride comfort. But your vette is a sports car, right?
You can buy used Z06 front sway bars in the parts section, because a lot of them upgrade to Hotchkis or T1's.
So the real question is should you by-pass the Z06 and go to Hotchkis?
Very good inexpensive handling improvement! YES, you will notice a difference!!
I also added C6 ZO6 shocks to my 02 ZO6 (direct bolt on swap! ) and it made a big difference in aggressive handling quality! They will be a sweet addition to your car and sway bar up-grade!! It didn't effect normal ride comfort very much at all. All FOUR shocks can be purchase NEW for $230!