i need some info on shocks

[EarlR]

Re: i need some info on shocks

Ok, I think I understand a little better - it sounds like the re-valving is being done to better match the shocks to the stiffer spring rates associated with the lowering springs. That makes much more sense. But I think we should make the distinction between just lowering the car, which may or may not affect shock valving, and changing the spring rates, which is more likely to require different valving. As we all know, all lowering springs do not have the same rates; some will not be much different from the stock springs, while some are going to be much stiffer.

[Firebirdkid96]

Re: i need some info on shocks

Ok, I think I understand a little better - it sounds like the re-valving is being done to better match the shocks to the stiffer spring rates associated with the lowering springs. That makes much more sense. But I think we should make the distinction between just lowering the car, which may or may not affect shock valving, and changing the spring rates, which is more likely to require different valving. As we all know, all lowering springs do not have the same rates; some will not be much different from the stock springs, while some are going to be much stiffer.

I have yet to see a set of lowering springs for our cars that do not have a significantly stiffer spring rate as a result of the lowering.

The revalving also puts less stress on the shock because technically, the shock would be under some compression while using lowering springs otherwise, correct?

[EarlR]

Re: i need some info on shocks

I'm not sure about the Camaro, but I do recall that for import applications some of the Eibach kits were not known to be much stiffer than the stock springs. Then you have the progressive springs (aren't the Hotchkis springs progressive?), and the kits by guys who actually know a little something about the cars they're designing the springs for, like Sam Strano. I'm going with those when I get around to changing out the springs.

And no, lowering the car doesn't really put any more stress on the shocks; unless they're getting slammed at either end of the suspension travel they don't really care what the car height is - remember the shocks aren't carrying any of the car's weight, they just control the rate of the suspension movement. The springs are doing all the heavy lifting.

[Firebirdkid96]

Re: i need some info on shocks

I'm not sure about the Camaro, but I do recall that for import applications some of the Eibach kits were not known to be much stiffer than the stock springs. Then you have the progressive springs (aren't the Hotchkis springs progressive?), and the kits by guys who actually know a little something about the cars they're designing the springs for, like Sam Strano. I'm going with those when I get around to changing out the springs.

And no, lowering the car doesn't really put any more stress on the shocks; unless they're getting slammed at either end of the suspension travel they don't really care what the car height is - remember the shocks aren't carrying any of the car's weight, they just control the rate of the suspension movement. The springs are doing all the heavy lifting.

Right, I just thought that by explaining they were slightly compressed when you lower the springs it might shed some light for guys to understand how the revalving helps a bit.

[ssms5411]

Re: i need some info on shocks

I have kyb adj. on the front with eibach springs and Blisteins on the rear. I like the KYB ADJ. on the front, just for the adjustablitly. But when I get a chance QA-1's will be going on. The front at least, and will leave the blisteins on the rear.

[HeadyFirebird'00]

Re: i need some info on shocks

same here. bilstiens HD and stock springs. great contol. little bit rougher ride, its like i could feel every crack in the road. BUT the cornering and other up and downs in the road are hella fun to take on!