I ordered and installed a set of Bilstein HD shocks on all four corners of my 67 this weekend and am very happy with the results. Handling is MUCH improved and responsiveness and simply the feel of the car is better also. You get what you pay for once again. There are two types of Bilstein shocks for 63-82 Vettes, Heavy Duty and Sport shocks. I chose the Heavy Duty shocks rather than the Sport shocks after reading several posts and talking to the Bilstein reps on the phone. The Sport shocks are much stiffer and appropriate for track rate springs. The HD shocks are appropriate for stock or GT springs. I replaced a set of KYB GR-2 shocks and they were too soft and weak in my opinion for more spirited driving. See the link below for an earlier thread on the topic.
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Re: Bilstein shocks
Not to contradict Tim's view, but to supplement it, I installed Bilstein Sports all around on my 65 SB vert with base suspension last year; I drive that car for fun and my fun is spritied back road twisty driving, and I was pleased with the new shocks, they seem to work well with my Firestone Firehawk radials. To be sure, the car does not absorb bad asphalt patches like my '02 Avalanche does, but it didn't do so before either, and that is fine with me. Tim's point is quite valid, the Bilstein Sports might be a bit too "Sporty" for some, and the oddly named "Heavy Duty" Bilsteins are the softer choice from that manufacturer.65 MM Convertible, L76 (365 hp) -
Re: Bilstein shocks
Yep, it is really up to the desires of the individual as Jack points out. I found it to be confusing when researching Bilstein shocks that many vendors aren't aware that there are HD and Sport versions. I do know that the difference between the KYB GR2s and the Bilstein HD shocks is dramatic. The GR2s were almost "floaty" in some situations, and the HDs are not that way at all and offer what seems like good control and a good balance of ride and handling for my tastes. Combined with the Pirelli tires that Duke recommends I think my 67 vert feels pretty good now. I just need to have a day running around a track for fun! :-) There is a thread in the Corvette Forum from a fellow who recently did that in his stock suspension 67 vert with Bilstein HD shocks and had a great time. Maybe I will try that!Comment
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