[C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

[John M.]

I'm asking for some philosophy/guidance here:

My 1985 has the Z51 suspension with the Delco-Bilstein shocks. At 51k miles, they're showing their age both in looks (worn) and in performance (creaky). Do you thin I should refurbish them or replace them? The car is strictly a Top Flight/Performance Verification vehicle - way past Bowtie judging possibilities...

[Joe L.]

Re: [C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

John-----

The shocks used for your application are mono-tube type shocks. I don't know of any way to "refurbish" or rebuild them. So, I really don't think that's an option.

The last available Delco-Bilstein SERVICE shocks for your application, GM #22046447, front, and GM #22046449, rear, are discontinued. However, I believe that you can still obtain shocks from Bilstein dealers which are identical, or near-identical, to the originals used on your car.

[John M.]

Re: [C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

Joe,

Thanks for your response. I'm talking about the service Bilstein lists in the URL below - I think they would call mine a "Standard shock: (mono-tube Non-adjustable)". Am I missing something?




Bilstein Servicing URL

[Joe L.]

Re: [C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

John------

I was not previously aware that Bilstein (or anyone else, for that matter) offered a rebuilding service for mono-tube shocks. However, now I know that they do (for their shocks, only, I assume). In that case, I think that I'd go with their rebuilding service but, primarily, from the standpoint of retaining the car's original components. From the standpoint of economy, it looks like the cost of rebuilding might be fairly close to the cost of just purchasing new shocks.

[Joe R.]

Re: [C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

John & Joe,

I sent my Bilstein shocks in for rebuild on my 91 ZO-7 and they did an excellent job at a very good price. Would recommend the rebuilding service.

Regards,

JR

[Don G.]

Re: [C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

I wil will state the obvious. NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO, KEEP THE ORIGINALS FOR POSSIBLE FUTURE JUDGING OPPORTUNITIES!

[John M.]

Re: [C4] Bilstein Shocks Refurb Or Replace?

I'll definitely keep the originals no matter what - I'm a newbie, but not that much of a newbie...