Shocks/Springs for an '87 GM

[GrandmasCar]

I need to change my shocks (and probably my springs too--my car visibly squats with just a little weight in the trunk). I've never done any of this kind of work on a car before so I am not familiar with anything other than brand names (I'm learning as I go). I notice that a lot of people here use KYB GR2's. I'm just curious to know if there is anything that sets them apart from a Edlebrock IAS or a Bilstein or other quality shocks, other than just price. Also, does anyone know what the spring rate is for the coil springs for an '87 GM (standard and police models, if possible), and has anyone tried out any lowering springs (for performance handling, NOT to create a low rider!) or variable rate springs? So people don't start going off on me, I'll let you know that this is my daily driver and I do a lot of road trips. I'm trying to make my car fast by not only creating more power, but also better handling. I'm willing to spend a little more to get quality parts, and do everything right the first time (no coat hangers or duct tape!).

[Blaze86Vic]

Phazer has some non-linear rate springs in the rear of his car. I'd like to know where he got them, I'd love to have that in the rear of my baby. A lot of people here also are using air shocks in the rear to counteract the weak springs. The more weight you put in the trunk the more air you put in the shocks. Works great and is easy to do. I'd like to do an lectric pump on mine so I can control it from inside.

[Paul_]

when i get shifty back on the road, i wanna get a set of wagon springs in back, and new springs in front

[Grand Marquis GT]

I run KYBs on all four corners, and HD variable rate springs (new) for a station wagon.

I dont get that rake with air shocks, and the ride is firm, not mushy.

Also, get a PI rear swaybar, and new poly bushings/endlinks for the front bar.

This will tighten the handling right up. Also look for and replace any suspension parts that are wore out...

And get some good tires.

read here for my gospel on suspension

http://www.grandmarq.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1063

Also, im stepping up to 17's sooner or later...

[GrandmasCar]

Cool. I'm going to look around at the junk yards today to see if I can find any cop cars or wagons. I know I definetly need a rear sway bar because a friend of mine just commented about the rear end shimmy when I hit some bumps going around a corner (I've noticed it for years).

[85crownHPP]

horray for variable rate springs!!!

PS those 'uber shoxx' are a waste of money imo... cheap shocks and new springs will make you happy as can be!

[Blaze86Vic]

So let me get this strait. The variable rate springs are the rear springs for the station wagon? Are they factory, or are they available at parts stores?

[Grand Marquis GT]

I got mine ordered from advance

[Blaze86Vic]

How much did they cost?

[Grand Marquis GT]

25 a peice for the shocks, 60 bucks for the springs.

I have the HD coils for the rear of a colony park wagon... They make for a real stiff ride and that GMGT rake all the time...

[DuceAnAHalf]

i took the rear springs (E springs catchword TOW) out of my 97 and put them on my 85, i still need to get some el-cheapo shocks for the rear until i go coil-over. for the front i have 88 PI springs minus one coil and Carrera 50/50 shocks with a #8 valve and Delrin bushings on the upper arms.

[Stu]

I have Edelbrock Performer IAS's all around, and even though I like them, they weren't a HUGE change from before. Considering my rear shocks were toasted original shocks, I probably would have been just as satisfied with cheaper shocks.

I don't regret the decision, but when the time comes again, I will install a round of 2002 Motorcraft police shocks.

[Grand Marquis GT]

Usually IAS shocks stiffen as you beat on them.

Which stu does VERY little of.

He drives like granny