1969 shocks

[69z28fan]

Once again I’m turning to the experts. I have a 69 ss396, multi leaf rear with stock GM shocks. I’m trying to get a better ride without changing the entire suspension. Never raced just a cruiser. Ideas on front and rear shocks. 

[crossboss]

Once again I’m turning to the experts. I have a 69 ss396, multi leaf rear with stock GM shocks. I’m trying to get a better ride without changing the entire suspension. Never raced just a cruiser. Ideas on front and rear shocks.

FWIW,
Some guys on the other car sites I visit asked the same questions. I will give you my same answer: Go with KYBs. They ride/handle nice, and are quite reasonable in price. You can paint them the 'correct' color, and no one will be the wiser.

[camaronut]

If you still want originality, repro spiral shocks are an option, however - the ride is not that good.
I use to have Monroe shocks, but KYB’s are an excellent choice.
That’s my two cents.

[69Z28-RS]

OR...   if you have the factory original shocks, you can probably sell them to someone desiring a 'points' car, and make enough to buy yourself a set of Konis... 

[Gars68Tux]

 Which KYB's are you guys referring to ?  The "gas-a-just" are extremely firm, imo...especially in the rear. "Excel-G" is much more pleasant for a cruiser. 

[crossboss]

OR...   if you have the factory original shocks, you can probably sell them to someone desiring a 'points' car, and make enough to buy yourself a set of Konis... 

Koni's are not cheap AND the ride quality is more for a road racer type set up. KYB's do have different types as well.

[crossboss]

Which KYB's are you guys referring to ?  The "gas-a-just" are extremely firm, imo...especially in the rear. "Excel-G" is much more pleasant for a cruiser. 

Like my previous post, it will determine what you are after. Koni's will ride harsh. The KYB 'Gas a just'' shock will ride smoother than an equivalent Koni. Boys, remember we are talking about a 'performance' car here (a Big Block), not a Cadillac. So, you still want it to ride nice and firm like a performance car should, not squishy like moms old station wagon. This is why I prefer and recommend the KYB's on my street cars.

[Gars68Tux]

Gas-a-just would probably be fine in the front, since it's a BB, but still think they're way too stiff in the rear with multi-leaf springs. About like riding in a truck if the roads aren't perfect.  Excel G's are gas charged as well so probably a step up from stock, but not nearly as harsh as G-a-J...

 

[crossboss]

Gas-a-just would probably be fine in the front, since it's a BB, but still think they're way too stiff in the rear with multi-leaf springs. About like riding in a truck if the roads aren't perfect.  Excel G's are gas charged as well so probably a step up from stock, but not nearly as harsh as G-a-J...

 

All I can say, when I used KYB shocks on my Big Block Mustangs with the Competition Suspension and regular versions (all cars had multi leaf rears) using the Gas-A-Just shocks, they all rode nice. Never too stiff. Boys, also take into consideration either a Camaro or Mustang's rear leaf springs are very similar in design, and function. Just my worthless two cents...

[GMAD_Van Nuys]

The brand and age of the tires on your car can make a big difference in the ride of your vehicle.