Re: {'87 5KCSTQ] Strut/shock Selection

[Russ Southerlin <russell.s.southerlin@lmco.com>]

Paul asked:
> Looking for some advice from the wealth available from this list.  
> 
> I just purchased a set of H&R springs for my '87 5KCSTQ, and now I need
> to get some new struts/shocks to go with them, and am looking for some
> advice, since I'm pretty ignorant in this field.
> 
> I'm sort of leaning away from Koni's, based largely on the recent
> threads concering their warrentee on this list.
> 
> Boge.  ProGas vs. Turbo gas.  I understand that only one of these model
> is available for the 5k, is that correct?  Is this a decent choice for
> my car?
> 
> Anything else?  I'm not looking to spend a fourtune ont he car.  It is
> strickly a street car, so I'm not looking for track worthiness,just
> trying to improve the handling/feel/ride a bit from the current sagging
> suspention.

Just did a set of Konis on my 87 5KTQ, with stock springs. Best deal I
found was RD Enterprises 1-800-683-2890. Konis were about $30 more than
Bilsteins. Konis were $450 for the set with shipping.  According to RD
the warranty for Bilsteins is the same as Koni - you are suppposed to be
the original purchaser and you have to buy a new shock/set and return
the bad one(s) to RD. RD will then return them to the manu. for a
credit/refund.  Not sure how they handle Boge.

One thing that led me away from Bilstein is I believe the only shock
they offer for the rear is the later 89 and up 200Q style which requires
a sleve to be made to fit the upper shock mount.  Not 100% sure on this
though.

Also one issue with the shorter springs, as I am told, is that when the
car has stock length shocks the springs can fall out of the rear spring
perches when the car is jacked up.  I think Boge shocks are stock length
and Koni/Bilstein are shorter for shorter springs.  Just something to
consider.

I am ver happy with the Konis.  I have them set for 70% stiff on the
front and 60% rear.  THe ride is very controlled on the highway. There
is a some increase in harshness over sharp edges but very acceptable
IMO.

Russ
87 5KTQ
Littleton, CO