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Suspension Differences: GXP vs 00+ SSEi

Old 07-13-2006, 01:01 PM
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Default Suspension Differences: GXP vs 00+ SSEi

I have a chance to get some parts off a wrecked GXP. What'* the difference in suspension between the GXP and an 03 SSEi with Auto Leveling?

Are the struts/rear shocks the same? Should I snag the springs (I thought they lowered the car more)?

TIA
Old 07-13-2006, 01:42 PM
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The GXP is in fact lower than a SSEi but thats all I know.
Old 07-13-2006, 08:45 PM
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I'm thinking GXP suspension is somewhat different than our class bonnevilles from a descrption I read a few years back about the GXP suspension. I don't think the adaptation could be accomplished with out major modification. Maybe some one that knows the facts will chime in.
Old 07-14-2006, 02:37 AM
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I wonder if the GXP got the FE3 suspension becaues the FE3 is lower than the FE2 that the SSEi Bonneville got.

If it IS the FE3 suspension, I"d assume that it'* the same as the 2001-2003 Aurora used. That has FE3. Can any GXP owners check their RPO codes for the FE3/FE2 code?
Old 07-14-2006, 04:02 AM
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Sorry I didnt catch this post earlier TommyGloves, the GXP doesnt share much with the other Bonnies including the suspension so I'm not in here much. Alot of people here assume the GXP is the same as the other models except for the drive train but it is so much different through out. The GXP has the suspension package desination FE5 It is exclusive to the GXP. No other GM model carries this package.
I did alot of research on the suspension before I shelled out almost $3k to change it

The following description I got when I inquired on th net ( way before this when I was considering upgrading what I had), is straight from Kurt Fisher. He was the GXP Program Engineering manager at GM.

Advanced suspension components are custom engineered for the Bonneville GXP, the suspension system more closely resembles a Le Mans racer than a production vehicle. More than 1,000 hours were spent modeling, testing and refining the balance of the components to create a superior ride with a true performance feel.

Structural rigidity was increased through the use of a tower-to-tower brace and a specially dampened engine cradle mounting package. Performance-tuned DeCarbon monotube dampeners, progressive spring rates and large diameter (30-mm front, 22-mm rear) stabilizer bars allow the Bonneville GXP to provide both excellent driver feedback and a smooth, compliant ride.

We really put a lot of work into making the Bonneville GXP perform like a sports car but handle like a premium touring sedan. You can drive it aggressively, it'* made to handle the twists and turns of the road.


With the differences in drive train, exhaust system, brake system, PCM, ignition, CAI, suspension system, wireing harnesses, nose, and body styling attachments it is Not just another trim level.

All this said though, if you are handy and have a cheap GXP suspension to be had and want a project. I would check and measure bolt holes and spring mounts et al.
And decide for yourself if it can be done. I like uncharted territory and will be glad to help if it looks like a go. I have almost my entire OEM suspension sitting on shelves so i know my way around it pretty well now
Old 07-18-2006, 09:32 AM
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Yeesh...thanks for the replies. I think I'll just stick with my current setup. I thought (in general GM fashion) that the suspension parts would of been interchangeable.
Old 07-18-2006, 06:05 PM
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Originally Posted by TommyGloves
I thought (in general GM fashion) that the suspension parts would of been interchangeable.
Tommy, to a large degree they are pretty much interchangeable between Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile "H" platforms , however, the GXP seems to be a stand alone suspension.
Old 07-18-2006, 06:29 PM
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Monotube dampeners FTW!
Old 07-18-2006, 10:09 PM
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Originally Posted by Sol
Monotube dampeners FTW!
http://www.bilstein.com/tech.php#technology
Old 07-18-2006, 10:13 PM
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Yea, that is what the GP GXP has too. Wonderful struts.
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