Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Patsfan34 · 09-06-2010, 08:10 AM

I need to replace the shocks on my 87 GMC 4x4 and just wanted some input on a nice shock that's good for the road. My commute is 2 hours round trip everyday back and forth to work and I want something that is comfortable. I do not want anything that will make this truck ride stiff. Is a stock replacement fine or should I spend the extra couple bucks for a good riding shock?

Thanks

LONGHAIR · 09-06-2010, 08:21 AM

If your springs are already too stiff, shocks aren't going to fix it.
Is this truck 1/2 or 3/4 ton? lifted? Is it already stiff? any more you can tell us will help.

Patsfan34 · 09-06-2010, 09:29 AM

Its a completely stock 2500 3/4 ton 4x4. No lift. I drove the truck 4 miles home from buying it and felt stiff. I'm sure it didn't help that the shocks in it now are rotted and bent.

**old Rusty C10** · 09-06-2010, 10:00 AM

i run plain old Napa ones in mine and im happy i have back problems and i have no issues with the ride quality

tucsonjwt · 09-06-2010, 10:37 AM

It sounds like any standard shock would be better than what you have. The best shocks I have found overall are Edelbrock IAS, but they are like $100 per shock now, and one of the set I bought for my 2000 Silverado leaked soon after installation (replaced quickly by Edelbrock). I would just go with an OEM replacement shock for the smoothest ride, unless you really value a smooth ride. Some places have a good return policy, so you might be able to test them out, then return them if you don't like them. Rock Auto seems pretty good about that.

Seven9er · 09-06-2010, 12:46 PM

I got the cheapest ones auto zone had. some kinda gabriel ones. work good enough for me.

Adams74Chevy · 09-06-2010, 12:51 PM

A 3/4 ton will be on the stiff side just the nature of the beast, but worn out shocks definately don't help.

79gmcc15 · 09-06-2010, 04:58 PM

While your under there, lubricate your leaf springs. Take a flat head screw driver in between the leafs and spray them down with a good lube. It might help.
Posted via Mobile Device

LONGHAIR · 09-06-2010, 05:22 PM

If it's already too stiff, shocks won't help it....unless one is bent in a way that would make it bind.
The best way to determine what you really have is to disconnect/remove them completely and test drive it.
If it is still to stiff at that point, shocks are never going to fix it. All a shock really does is take the "bouncy" (springy-ness) out of the springs. They cannot soften the ride of a spring that is too stiff already.

*78 Chevyrado* · 09-06-2010, 05:23 PM

probably the best thing for a better ride would be to remove some leafs. you'll lose capacity, but it will ride better. If you load the truck heavily often, softer shocks will make it bouncier when loaded though.

Melmann · 09-06-2010, 06:06 PM

I am running Rancho 5000 on my 4WD. I am satisfied with there performance.Like everyone said you have a 3/4 t. It will not be as soft as 1/2 t is. I was always told you get what you pay for. Cheap is not always the best.

Patsfan34 · 09-06-2010, 07:01 PM

This is why I love this board, all great info and everyone's willingness to help. Thanks again guys!

**N2TRUX** · 09-06-2010, 11:36 PM

While it may not help the ride, shocks can "hurt" the ride. Since you already have stiff springs the last thing you want to add is a stiff shock. A good heavy duty shock should suffice. Avoid a gas charged shock as it will only make the ride more firm.

Something else to look at are your tires. If you have tires with a stiff sidewall, they will compound the stiff suspension. As mentioned you may consider removing a leaf or two if you don't need the additional load capacity.

isptech · 09-07-2010, 12:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N2TRUX

Something else to look at are your tires. If you have tires with a stiff sidewall, they will compound the stiff suspension. As mentioned you may consider removing a leaf or two if you don't need the additional load capacity.

That is what is did on mine. It had an old set old of 10 plys on it, switched them to a new set of tires with 6 plys. The ride is greatly improved, however it is still a 3/4 ton.

tucsonjwt · 09-07-2010, 12:16 AM

I mentioned Edelbrock IAS because they adjust to the driving condition - at least that is their sales pitch. I imagine there are other shocks now that can do the same thing in a differnt way. Actually, a too smooth ride shock can give you a bouncy ride because they react to every bump in the road. Also, I have found that a tight front end helps the ride. If I were you, I would crawl under the front end and see how it looks. I have a big front swaybar in my 3/4 ton that had shot rubber bushings, and when I replaced them it improved the handling but also the ride (less bouncing/shimmy.) I have owned 1/2 tons and 3/4 tons and prefer the ride in the 3/4 tons, specifically because they don't bounce as much, especially on washboard roads. The bouncing, even if slight, gets to my lower back after a short time.

Justins76 · 09-07-2010, 04:01 AM

I like my Bilsteins.

Adams74Chevy · 09-07-2010, 10:52 AM

I bought these for my '74 but have yet to install them (now will probably go on my '73)...anyone else have any experience with them?
KYB-KG5408
KYB-KG5415

DetroitIron · 09-07-2010, 11:02 AM

Great thread...I have an 85 K20 that is ready for shocks...good info to have before I buy.

foamypirate · 09-07-2010, 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Adams74Chevy

I bought these for my '74 but have yet to install them (now will probably go on my '73)...anyone else have any experience with them?
KYB-KG5408
KYB-KG5415

KYB makes pretty good shocks for your money. I'd take Koni or Bilstein over the KYB's if they didn't cost an arm and a first born child, though!

Adams74Chevy · 09-07-2010, 12:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by foamypirate

KYB makes pretty good shocks for your money. I'd take Koni or Bilstein over the KYB's if they didn't cost an arm and a first born child, though!

Ok good to know...yeah I can't get rid of my first born, the wife wouldn't forgive me.

and I'm attached to the lil fella too.

ElGracho · 09-07-2010, 02:34 PM

I'm a big fan of the Monroe Sens-a-trac shocks. I had them on my M1009 CUCV (the Blazer one) and it rode significantly better than my Jimmy which is the civilian version of the same truck. Same engine, same tires etc. They use similar technology to the Edelbrocks for less money.

Patsfan34 · 09-07-2010, 09:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ElGracho

I'm a big fan of the Monroe Sens-a-trac shocks. I had them on my M1009 CUCV (the Blazer one) and it rode significantly better than my Jimmy which is the civilian version of the same truck. Same engine, same tires etc. They use similar technology to the Edelbrocks for less money.

My local auto parts shop also recommended the Monroe's. I'm going to do a little more research but that was the suggested stock replacement. I'm leaning that way.

bowtiecb · 09-07-2010, 10:48 PM

do anyone know wat brand shocks was factory for a 80? i had a 80 long wheel base that rode just as good as the cadi i had at the time, shock could have worn, but a very smooth ride, with 255/70 regul sport tires

Adams74Chevy · 09-09-2010, 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 79gmcc15

While your under there, lubricate your leaf springs. Take a flat head screw driver in between the leafs and spray them down with a good lube. It might help.
Posted via Mobile Device

Any particular lube better than another for this?

09-06-2010, 08:10 AM	#1
Patsfan34 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: New England Posts: 661	Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I need to replace the shocks on my 87 GMC 4x4 and just wanted some input on a nice shock that's good for the road. My commute is 2 hours round trip everyday back and forth to work and I want something that is comfortable. I do not want anything that will make this truck ride stiff. Is a stock replacement fine or should I spend the extra couple bucks for a good riding shock? Thanks

09-06-2010, 09:29 AM	#3
Patsfan34 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: New England Posts: 661	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? Its a completely stock 2500 3/4 ton 4x4. No lift. I drove the truck 4 miles home from buying it and felt stiff. I'm sure it didn't help that the shocks in it now are rotted and bent.

09-06-2010, 10:00 AM	#4
old Rusty C10 Robert Olson Transport Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: recent transplant to NC USA Posts: 20,345	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? i run plain old Napa ones in mine and im happy i have back problems and i have no issues with the ride quality __________________ Bob 1951 International running on a squarebody chassis "If a man's worth is judged by the people he associates himself with, then i am the richest man in the world knowing some of the fine people of this board" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/a...t.php?f=25&a=9 (you can review the site rules here!) PM Me for your vehicle/parts hauling needs in the North East US or see my Facebook page Robert Olson Transport Live each day to the fullest.. you never know when fate is going to pull the rug out from under you... I hate cancer!!

09-06-2010, 10:37 AM	#5
tucsonjwt Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Tucson, AZ Posts: 3,198	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? It sounds like any standard shock would be better than what you have. The best shocks I have found overall are Edelbrock IAS, but they are like $100 per shock now, and one of the set I bought for my 2000 Silverado leaked soon after installation (replaced quickly by Edelbrock). I would just go with an OEM replacement shock for the smoothest ride, unless you really value a smooth ride. Some places have a good return policy, so you might be able to test them out, then return them if you don't like them. Rock Auto seems pretty good about that.

09-06-2010, 12:46 PM	#6
Seven9er Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Gulfport, MS Posts: 108	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I got the cheapest ones auto zone had. some kinda gabriel ones. work good enough for me. __________________ USMC Former SGT 2002-2006 Oshkosh Truck Corporation- FSR, The worlds largest manufacturer of Severe Duty Trucks. The Money Pit. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=406891 2009 2500HD R.I.P. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...12#post4025612

09-06-2010, 12:51 PM	#7
Adams74Chevy Registered User Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: MD Posts: 417	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? A 3/4 ton will be on the stiff side just the nature of the beast, but worn out shocks definately don't help. __________________ 2006 Silverado Crew Cab 1500 4x4 5.3L automatic 1986 M1008 CUCV 6.2L Detroit Diesel TH400 4.56 Detroit Locker rear NP208 1973 K20 "Silverado" 350ci, HEI, TH350, NP203 with 2wd conversion, A/C, power windows,tilt wheel, dual tanks. My '73ish K20 thread My 5yo son claims it as his. 1987 V20 Custom Deluxe 350 TH400 NP208 "farm truck" getting parted out. 2016 Nissan Altima grocery getter/commuter

09-06-2010, 04:58 PM	#8
79gmcc15 Gettin It One Pice At A Time Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: everett, washington Posts: 2,688	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? While your under there, lubricate your leaf springs. Take a flat head screw driver in between the leafs and spray them down with a good lube. It might help. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ RIP ELJAY Work In Progress 1979 GMC C1500 Trailering Special. Getting the truck done, one piece at a time. “You can tell a lot about a fellow’s character by his way of eating jellybeans.”Ronald Reagan “I don’t know the key to success but I know the key to failure is trying to please everybody.” Bill Cosby

09-06-2010, 05:23 PM	#10
78 Chevyrado Account Suspended Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Unnapreciative, Trollville Posts: 2,079	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? probably the best thing for a better ride would be to remove some leafs. you'll lose capacity, but it will ride better. If you load the truck heavily often, softer shocks will make it bouncier when loaded though.

09-06-2010, 06:06 PM	#11
Melmann Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: Lagrange Ga Posts: 48	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I am running Rancho 5000 on my 4WD. I am satisfied with there performance.Like everyone said you have a 3/4 t. It will not be as soft as 1/2 t is. I was always told you get what you pay for. Cheap is not always the best. __________________ Mel

09-06-2010, 07:01 PM	#12
Patsfan34 Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: New England Posts: 661	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? This is why I love this board, all great info and everyone's willingness to help. Thanks again guys!

09-06-2010, 11:36 PM	#13
N2TRUX Happy to be here Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Cypress, TX Posts: 39,021	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? While it may not help the ride, shocks can "hurt" the ride. Since you already have stiff springs the last thing you want to add is a stiff shock. A good heavy duty shock should suffice. Avoid a gas charged shock as it will only make the ride more firm. Something else to look at are your tires. If you have tires with a stiff sidewall, they will compound the stiff suspension. As mentioned you may consider removing a leaf or two if you don't need the additional load capacity. __________________ Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @N2trux.com Articles- "Jake" the 84 to 74 crewcab "Elwood" the77_Remix 85 GMC Sierra "Scarlett" "Refining Sierra"

09-07-2010, 12:16 AM	#15
tucsonjwt Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Tucson, AZ Posts: 3,198	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I mentioned Edelbrock IAS because they adjust to the driving condition - at least that is their sales pitch. I imagine there are other shocks now that can do the same thing in a differnt way. Actually, a too smooth ride shock can give you a bouncy ride because they react to every bump in the road. Also, I have found that a tight front end helps the ride. If I were you, I would crawl under the front end and see how it looks. I have a big front swaybar in my 3/4 ton that had shot rubber bushings, and when I replaced them it improved the handling but also the ride (less bouncing/shimmy.) I have owned 1/2 tons and 3/4 tons and prefer the ride in the 3/4 tons, specifically because they don't bounce as much, especially on washboard roads. The bouncing, even if slight, gets to my lower back after a short time.

09-07-2010, 04:01 AM	#16
Justins76 OutOfMyMind & I'llNeverKnowWhy Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Another world, some other time Posts: 672	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I like my Bilsteins. __________________ -Justin-Out of my mind and I'll never know why 1976 Chevrolet Silverado C10 350 4bbl / TH350 Big10 longbed 1986 Pontiac Firebird T-Top 5.0L TPI 700R4 WS6 1992 Pontiac Firebird T-Top 5.0L TBI 700R4 My cardomain page I don't like to save, it's more fun to spend!!

09-07-2010, 10:52 AM	#17
Adams74Chevy Registered User Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: MD Posts: 417	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I bought these for my '74 but have yet to install them (now will probably go on my '73)...anyone else have any experience with them? KYB-KG5408 KYB-KG5415 __________________ 2006 Silverado Crew Cab 1500 4x4 5.3L automatic 1986 M1008 CUCV 6.2L Detroit Diesel TH400 4.56 Detroit Locker rear NP208 1973 K20 "Silverado" 350ci, HEI, TH350, NP203 with 2wd conversion, A/C, power windows,tilt wheel, dual tanks. My '73ish K20 thread My 5yo son claims it as his. 1987 V20 Custom Deluxe 350 TH400 NP208 "farm truck" getting parted out. 2016 Nissan Altima grocery getter/commuter

09-07-2010, 11:02 AM	#18
DetroitIron Registered User Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Hudsonville, MI Posts: 174	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? Great thread...I have an 85 K20 that is ready for shocks...good info to have before I buy. __________________ _______________________________________________ 1985 Chevy Scottsdale K20 350 with 700R4 running 3.42 gearing aka "The Honey Badger" 1993 Silverado C3500 Ext. Cab Dually 6.5 turbo diesel



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09-07-2010, 02:34 PM	#21
ElGracho Gentleman Jim Driver Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Poulsbo, WA Posts: 1,554	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? I'm a big fan of the Monroe Sens-a-trac shocks. I had them on my M1009 CUCV (the Blazer one) and it rode significantly better than my Jimmy which is the civilian version of the same truck. Same engine, same tires etc. They use similar technology to the Edelbrocks for less money. __________________ Joe '75 GMC Gentleman Jim '84 Chev C10 Short Wide - Super duper plain (manual steering, manual brakes, no dome light, no cig lighter) '85 Chev C10 Short Wide - Super plain Vortec 4.8 4L60E trans also: '81 K30, '83 C30 Crew Dually, '84 M1028 CUCV, '85 M1009 CUCV, another '85 C10 SWB, '87 C10, '87 R30, 2 '89 R3500 Flatbeds

09-07-2010, 10:48 PM	#23
bowtiecb Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: alabama Posts: 79	Re: Shocks, which brand for a comfortable driver? do anyone know wat brand shocks was factory for a 80? i had a 80 long wheel base that rode just as good as the cadi i had at the time, shock could have worn, but a very smooth ride, with 255/70 regul sport tires

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