Diff in springs Z28 vs SS

[kool-aide]

Is there a difference in springs for the Z28 versus the non-SLP SS?

I have also heard that the stock springs are not all that bad and not to spend money replacing them.

I have stock z28 w/ 97K and adding. I'm trying to figure out when and where to start replacing suspension parts. I am second owner with no idea of what has been done. I figured I have to be in the ball park for new shocks. What is a good shade tree mechanic way to figure out if they need to be replaced?

I'm a family guy with no money. I buy things for my car to make it last and when things wear out or break. So Konis would not be an option here. Its my DD and yes I drive it like a maniac when i'm in the mood.


thanks

kool-aide

[SexOnWheels]

Here are the differences in stock springs.

Manufacturer Model Front (lbs/in) Rear (lbs/in)
___OEM GM___V6 93-97____223________95.4
___OEM GM___V8 93-97____310________110
___OEM GM___V6 98-02____257________114
___OEM GM___V8 98-02____292________114
___1LE GM______1LE______360________130-180

Now there are more varied rates between years for the 1LE springs but you get the idea.

[kool-aide]

ok, so I am a 99 A4, that puts me in the bottom row, thanks.

So want is a good home mechanic way to figure out your shocks could use replacing?
Are there manufacturer dates on the shocks? Personally I think the car rides fine, but that's my non expert opinion.

[9T8W66]

Push each corner of the car down if it bounces the shocks are worn.
I'm at 119K and Ive needed shocks for a couple yrs.

[kool-aide]

That's what I was thinkin, bounce it and see if there is too much easy and loose travel.

Does any one know if you absolutely need a spring compressor tool to replace shocks? I know there is a huge force in those springs. I was wondering if there is a way to change shocks without a spring compressor tool and not kill yourself. If you can't I can just rent the tool.

[SexOnWheels]

The tool can be rented or purchased (I believed I paid $15) but yes you need the tool.

[kool-aide]

that's what I thought. I can just add it to my ever growing tool set and dwindling storage.

[9t8z28]

Is there a difference in springs for the Z28 versus the non-SLP SS?

I have also heard that the stock springs are not all that bad and not to spend money replacing them.

I have stock z28 w/ 97K and adding. I'm trying to figure out when and where to start replacing suspension parts. I am second owner with no idea of what has been done. I figured I have to be in the ball park for new shocks. What is a good shade tree mechanic way to figure out if they need to be replaced?

I'm a family guy with no money. I buy things for my car to make it last and when things wear out or break. So Konis would not be an option here. Its my DD and yes I drive it like a maniac when i'm in the mood.


thanks

kool-aide

What do you mean by non-SLP SS ???

[kool-aide]

well did GM make all SS as SLP options? I always thought SLP was an option, even to the SS.

[9t8z28]

well did GM make all SS as SLP options? I always thought SLP was an option, even to the SS.

No, SLP built the parts for the SS and installed themselves.

[kool-aide]

Ah, I didn't know that. Thanks.