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1998 Active Handling System

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Old 05-25-2017, 10:41 PM
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Jose2SS
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Default 1998 Active Handling System

Hello, I recently purchased a C5 Convertible Corvette (see threat below), the shocks I think are not good. I am going to purchase new ones, my doubt is, how do I know if my vette have Active Handling System? I only see the Traction Control button on the console. There is a big difference in price for the shocks with and without the senors. Please advice.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...nvertible.html


Thanks!!!

Jose C.

Last edited by Jose2SS; 05-25-2017 at 10:44 PM.
Old 05-25-2017, 11:41 PM
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Bill Dearborn
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Active Handling doesn't have anything to do with the shocks. It is part of the ABS and is RPO Number JL4 on your car. Active Handling is a function of the Electronic Brake and Traction Control Module and applies the brakes or a single brake to yaw the car in the direction you are turning the steering wheel if the car is responding too fast or too slow to the steering input.

The very expensive variable shock absorbers are part of the Ride Control System which is RPO F45. There are ways described on the forum to get rid of that system if you have it.

Bill
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Old 05-25-2017, 11:47 PM
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Vetteman Jack
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You are confusing Active Handling with the F45 Selective Real Time Damping shock system that was an option on the car. Look at your RPO sticker (I think it is located under one of the storage lids in the back) and see if there is an F45 code listed - if so, you have the expensive shocks.

You would also have a selectable switch on the center console if you have the F45 option.
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Old 05-26-2017, 02:05 AM
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RedRiderZR1
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If you only see the traction control button on the center console than you do not have active handling. Standard shocks is what you need.
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Old 05-26-2017, 10:26 AM
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Bill Curlee
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Originally Posted by RedRiderZR1
If you only see the traction control button on the center console than you do not have active handling. Standard shocks is what you need.
We have to be careful when trying to explain stuff. You should have stated that he doesn't have (F-45 Selective Real Time Dampening)

IF,, you have the three position selection **** on the console NEXT to the button, you have the F-45 Selective Handling (Real Time Dampening) feature (RPO F-45). That involves electronically adjustable shocks (read EXPENSIVE $$$)

ACTIVE HANDLING RPO (JL4) Involves the braking system and each brake caliper is individually controlled by the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBTCM) & the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV)

You can have (JL4) and F-45 at the same time starting mid-year 98.

Shocks. Please let us know if you have the F-45 RTD System or just the base FE-1 Suspension.

Either way, we can help you get you're C5 up to par with better handling equipment and it wont cost you an arm and a leg!!

Bill
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Old 05-26-2017, 11:25 AM
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Thanks all for the response, so I would need regular shocks.
Old 05-26-2017, 11:27 AM
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Jose2SS
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Originally Posted by Bill Curlee
We have to be careful when trying to explain stuff. You should have stated that he doesn't have (F-45 Selective Real Time Dampening)

IF,, you have the three position selection **** on the console NEXT to the button, you have the F-45 Selective Handling (Real Time Dampening) feature (RPO F-45). That involves electronically adjustable shocks (read EXPENSIVE $$$)

ACTIVE HANDLING RPO (JL4) Involves the braking system and each brake caliper is individually controlled by the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBTCM) & the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV)

You can have (JL4) and F-45 at the same time starting mid-year 98.

Shocks. Please let us know if you have the F-45 RTD System or just the base FE-1 Suspension.

Either way, we can help you get you're C5 up to par with better handling equipment and it wont cost you an arm and a leg!!

Bill

From what I learned here today, I don't need special shocks. Now, what brand should I purchase?
Old 05-26-2017, 11:47 AM
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Bill Curlee
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Originally Posted by 8VETTE7
That all depends on your goals.

Least expensive?

Highest performance??

Nicest ride???


You have to define what your driving GOALS are. The OPTIONS are almost endless..
What are the FUNDS in your wallet????

I put some C6 ZO6 Shocks on my 02 ZO6. They are 100% C5 Bolt in and do a really great job in improving handling. They are only $350 ish dollars from Gene Culley.
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Old 05-26-2017, 11:50 AM
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Check out this post!


https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ocks-4-4k.html
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Old 05-30-2017, 01:14 PM
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Jose2SS
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I am looking for nice ride, not so high performance as I have my C6 for that.
Old 12-03-2021, 10:46 AM
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I plan on trying C6 base shocks on my C5 next spring. I daily my car about 8 months out of the year so a nice ride is important.
​​​​​​Base shocks for a C5 cost more than a C6 for reasons I can't explain. Rockauto FE1 for a C5 $126.00 compared to $72.00 for a C6​
Old 12-06-2021, 12:44 PM
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The C5 is the better car.

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