From: The Bus Depot <vanagon@BUSDEPOT.COM> > Kinda idly curious what folks with 2wd's are using for shocks, and > what they think of 'me. I've used the Gasajust GRT combination, and > found it to be OK, if not special.
It depends somewhat on what you're looking for. Gas shocks such as Bilstein and KYB are stiffer than the original-equipment oil-filled shocks. This will improve cornering and nose dive when braking, but will also make the ride a bit harder (less forgiving of potholes, road surfaces, etc.). The KYB's are notably stiffer and are definitely not as "refined" as the Bilsteins (but are much cheaper). A good oil-filled shock, by comparison, will retain the "stock" VW ride, as this is what VW originally used. Boge was the factory shock on the Vanagon. But perhaps a better choice is Alko's version. For the same price as the Boge it's much heavier duty - it looks more like a Bilstein. It performs well but still rides smoother than a gas-charged shock. In my opinion it's the best value for a Vanagon. So depending on your tastes and budget, I think either the Bilsteins or Alkos would be a wise choice. I've never tried the Koni's so I couldn't comment on them. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ I'd agree with Ron's appraisal of the various shock options for the T3 but will add my 2 cents worth regarding Konis since I have settled on their use almost exclusively after trying many different shocks including Bilstein with whom Konis share much in common. I prefer the Koni to the Bilstein as they have all the same desirable attributes like lack of bodyroll,virtually eliminating nose-diving etc but I find the Koni less harsh on the vehicles ride over pot holes,rough surfaces and so on. Others mileage may vary but I find the Koni as good a performer as the Bilstein but more comfortable to have under you... Cheers, Steve O NSW Australia '92 Transporter WBX Kombi '00 Transporter Double Cab '03 Transporter Double Cab (work truck) '78 Landrover Series 3 Soft top (ex-Aust.Army) |
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