8 replies to this topic

[neglectedtorana]

Any recommendations for performance shocks?

I am going to upgrade springs to something stiffer than the Kings lows I have now and want to add some better shocks too.

 

I have got a set of Spax for the rear and am waiting on a price from Spax for fronts including shipping but I am guessing it will be about $800 for the 2. 

 

Shockworks adjustable shocks will be $1200 for the front 2. Probably more than I want to spend and maybe more than my skills require.

 

Bilstein are about $700 plus local freight for the 2, may have originally been designed for a 1970 Volvo.

 

There is the option  of getting the CRS coil over kit as it comes with adjustable shocks but I am skeptical about they're suitability and maybe just suitable for looks but I don't have any experience to base this on. It seems too cheap at about $1100.

 

KYB have a few different models and I think the following might fit

KYB Shocks & Struts KG4550 KYB Gas-a-Just Shocks and Struts | Summit Racing

 

Anyone tried any of those for spirited or track driving? Or have any other recommendations?

 

Cheers, Tom

[76lxhatch]

I've been pretty happy with Bilsteins all round, although if they don't suit the specific vehicle/spring setup that could be hit and miss. I'm guessing the Shockworks ones would be a bit more tailored to suit? Anything that matches the rest of your suspension is likely to be a better option than just getting the right length off the shelf.

 

In my experience KYBs are generally just harsh without any real gain, but of course the price reflects that.

[neglectedtorana]

Yep, Shockworks will tailor to the car and driving style. I'm guessing they are a great shock, just costly.

 

Just noticed that HQ and LX are the same shock according to Bilstein and Monroe. Probably should have known that by now.

[76lxhatch]

HQ rears are shorter extended length, they work well if you move the mount up (this setup also uses a crush tube in the lower bushing):

Edited by 76lxhatch, 13 January 2026 - 03:33 AM.

[Shiney005]

X 2 for Bilsteins.  Mine are 30 years old and still work well.  Is it Bill stines or Bill steens?????

[RallyRed]

Hi mate, are the Spax shockies the ones that are adjustable on both Bump and rebound?

[neglectedtorana]

Yes, the Spax have rebound and compression adjustment but it is with one screw so it adjusts both at the same time. Can't do them separately.

They feel very robust and heavy compared to regular shocks

[yel327]

I used to run Boge oil shocks on my hatchback. Were streets better than any regular oil type shocks around at the time. I only got them at a tyre shop closure sale cheap, they were like $300 a pair in the late 80’s to buy retail.

[RallyRed]

Ok, Ta.  I was  going to say ( in LC/LJ world at least) the Spax with the seperate bump and rebound controls are a bit  of a pain. They are a good shock and  on the rears the adjustment  is easy. However on the FRONT , once  installed, the  B & R controls are not accesable  due to the controls being  hidden in the  LCA.  i.e. you need to remove the two lower  shocky  bolts and extend the  shock to get at them. Not sure  is that  occurs  in other Toranas?