Problems Adjusting Ride Height
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 7,631
Likes: 11
From: Rocklin California
I am following this post since I did the exact same swap of my factory Z51 shocks for factory base shocks in my 2005 with Z51 package. I also did the before and after measurements with no change in weight of the car (no gas added or used). Also drove the car for about 50 miles and rechecked a week later. Same measurements. I don't see how the two shocks are so different. I really didn't notice much if any difference in ride quality. I understand how shocks work to dampen but how would it change the suspension to lower or raise the car? The spring is what settles at a specified height, not the shock. The shock only changes the amount of pressure up and down. I don't think (my personal opinion) the amount of pressure within the shock is great enough to raise a 3,000 lb car? If so, why do we need springs? Maybe some suspension experts will chime in here to explain this theory? I weigh 190 lbs and i can push down a shock without using all my weight and hold it there. So how can this shock change a car's height?
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 25,015
Likes: 2,709
From: Far NW 'burbs of Chicago
St. Jude Donor '13
I am following this post since I did the exact same swap of my factory Z51 shocks for factory base shocks in my 2005 with Z51 package. I also did the before and after measurements with no change in weight of the car (no gas added or used). Also drove the car for about 50 miles and rechecked a week later. Same measurements. I don't see how the two shocks are so different. I really didn't notice much if any difference in ride quality. I understand how shocks work to dampen but how would it change the suspension to lower or raise the car? The spring is what settles at a specified height, not the shock. The shock only changes the amount of pressure up and down. I don't think (my personal opinion) the amount of pressure within the shock is great enough to raise a 3,000 lb car? If so, why do we need springs? Maybe some suspension experts will chime in here to explain this theory? I weigh 190 lbs and i can push down a shock without using all my weight and hold it there. So how can this shock change a car's height?
The best guess is that the gas pressure in the shocks supplies some additional upward force that slightly raises the car. But that's just a guess.
It's not easy to exactly measure the ride height, I put tape on the fenders above the wheel wells and mark a spot. Then use a long level/ruler with a bubble in it, so I can be sure the ruler is exactly perpendicular to the floor. And find a place with a really flat surface, always park the car in exact same location for measurements.
But still
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 7,631
Likes: 11
From: Rocklin California
That's close to the same method of measuring I did. Mine was dead on the same at all 4 wheel opening areas. I also did shocks on my C2 about 1 year ago. Replaced rear Bilstein Sports with QA-1 and front with KYB GR-2. Also no change at all 4 wheel openings. So that's why I am so curious about your situation. And wonder why the change. There has to be an explanation and I am sure someone will tell us! 
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 242
Likes: 17
I replaced the stock shocks on my base '09 with Koni FSD. The Koni's compress more easily than the stock, my guess is that is the difference you are seeing. Lift up on the fender with your hand and note the difference in height with a little pressure.
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 25,015
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From: Far NW 'burbs of Chicago
St. Jude Donor '13
How much "stiffer" is your ride with the FSD's, compared to the original base shocks?
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 754
Likes: 6
From: Fort Worth TX
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