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Suspension

Old 11-27-2005, 08:47 PM
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Default Suspension

Hey all,

I was just wondering what are some things we can do (upgrade) to improve the handling performance of our rides.

What is the most popular strut that has ELC?
Is there any aftermarket strut that can use the CCR?
What are "energy sway links" (or something like that)?

I know shocks/struts would do wonders, but they are expensive to replace all four corners. Any inexpensive mods, like sub $200?
Old 11-27-2005, 08:59 PM
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Mmm, under 200 buck, an anti-sway bar ( the one over the engine,not sure if its called anti-sway bar). That bar hold the strut of each side together, minimizing torsion of the frame. You can probably have it for 50-80$ can.(for the front)


Another one can be placed in the back but youll need to remove a part of the interior of your trunk, or do holes in it, but it dont worth it.

Just the one in front will greatly help the stability and feeling of the car.
Old 11-27-2005, 09:01 PM
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Default Re: Suspension

Originally Posted by Merlin 91/97
Hey all,

I was just wondering what are some things we can do (upgrade) to improve the handling performance of our rides.

What is the most popular strut that has ELC?
Is there any aftermarket strut that can use the CCR?
What are "energy sway links" (or something like that)?

I know shocks/struts would do wonders, but they are expensive to replace all four corners. Any inexpensive mods, like sub $200?
BIll has done the monroe strut upgrade that will keep your ELC....
there are NO struts that will keep your CCD
and the Energy suspension sway bar links are a great upgrade from the owners that have done it
Old 11-27-2005, 09:09 PM
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GMPP? will that work?
Old 11-27-2005, 09:09 PM
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Front sway bar.... both my cars already have that.

Energy sway bar links...... anyone got a website or PN for them?
I thought Kennginn had struts that kept the CCR...
Old 11-27-2005, 09:32 PM
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Autozone carries the energy suspension endlink kits. Part numbers are posted in several topics, most notably this one:

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...pic.php?t=5791

You'll see the packages in that topic, as well as any dealer parts you may need. This is a remarkable improvement.

Kenginn was selling the now-defunct Reflex struts (with ELC) that I have on my 93. I believe John Wikoff got the last set.

Monroe sensatrac'* are VERY close in performance and are supposed to be equal to KYB GR-2 struts. The KYB'* don't have ELC, but the Monroe'* do. Keep in mind the KYB and Sensatrac are a small step DOWN in performance from the Reflex. Get the reflex if you can, get the sensatrac otherwise.

http://www.williamwren.com/struts/elc.html. Prices are general, and are in $US. Convert for
Old 12-27-2005, 10:00 AM
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I know it'* been a month.... but I just wanted to confirm.

Bill.... you said...
Originally Posted by willwren
Ok....here'* the deal (with ALL the details for 92-99, all models):

The link kit from GM is crap. Not sure when the change happened, but GM is using plastic spacers and washers on the new kits (verified in person at the local dealer). I think the plastic would give too much, and doesn't provide enough support for the insulators, especially on the firmer SSE/SSEi suspensions. Wanna firm up your ride?

Buy Energy Suspension kit #9.8120RC. This kit is for the left and right (front) endlinks. It'* complete with BIGGER than stock bolts (and shorter, thank god), washers, and POLYURETHANE bushings (insulators). I got mine at Autozone for about $15 for BOTH sides (in the same package....full front kit). Follow the advice previously stated in this thread for install, but the kit comes with good directions, too. You don't need a maintenance manual. Just a good set of ramps and basic tools.

Wanna do the rear? Leave it to GM. They don't sell a kit for the rear. Each individual piece (bolt, nut, 2 washers, 3 insulators) have to be purchased seperately. Combined, it'll run you about $25. I have a better idea. Buy just the BOLT from GM. Get 2 of the 10026678 bolts (trust me, you want new....don't re-use the old), should run just shy of 4 bucks each. Then go to your local hardware store and buy two 8mm 'nylock' hex nuts. Fit them to the bolts to make sure, and try to get stainless steel. Now go BACK to Autozone and buy the Energy Suspension kit # 9.8105RC Bushing set. Comes with 8 washers and 8 bushings (insulators). You'll have 2 extra of each. Cost me $9 (US).

I haven't done the rear yet, but I now have a better than stock kit ready to go in for less than $20 for the rear.

Here they are lined up (left to right):

Far left, new package, old front endlinks. Far right, new rear endlink 'kit'.


Enjoy. And thanks again to our Gearheads for starting this new 'trend'.
That was on page 4 of the above mentioned thread.
Were there any changes that should be noted, since the thread is now on page 7.

Also any idea if these parts will work on my 91?
Old 12-27-2005, 10:27 AM
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If the same parts worked on my 98 SSE and 89 Lesabre I'd be more than willing to bet they'll work on your 91.
IIRC 91 Bonneville SSE'* have the same suspension as 92+.
Old 12-27-2005, 11:46 AM
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Yup, same-same, Jason. Go for it. It makes a profound difference. PROFOUND. And that'* putting it mildly.

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