Date:         Sun, 27 Nov 2016 11:47:25 -0800
Reply-To:     Patrick Spragge <spraggepat@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Patrick Spragge <spraggepat@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: opinions on shocks... please
Comments: To: Jon VonOhlsen <jondvo@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <0f56e05e-5ac6-7623-94e8-e7b50246c147@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

I would think that you would want your suspension/shocks somewhat compliant if you plan on driving off pavement much...my 2013 Jeep Wrangler has a very soft ride...nearly boat like

Patrick Spragge

> On Nov 27, 2016, at 8:19 AM, Jon VonOhlsen <jondvo@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> 
> I have the Bilstein sport HD ( from gowesty), which are revalved to be
> stiffer on rebound than the HD versions. They are about right for a
> camper, compression is well controlled and rebound has little overshoot.
> I changed the original Carat springs to stock height springs, the Carat
> springs were very soft. Overall a good combo, tho probably too stiff for
> a lightly loaded regular Vanagon.
> 
> jon
> 
> 
>> On 11/26/2016 3:14 PM, Ed wrote:
>> I've had original shocks, KYB Gas-a-Just, Bilstein HD, and Koni Red Heavy

>> Track shocks on my Westy.  I won't comment on the first two.  I felt the
>> Bilsteins were a little soft for my taste although they offered pretty
>> good spring control.  I currently have Koni Red Heavy Track shocks and I
>> think they are near perfect because they are firm with compression and
>> adjustable from just not quite firm enough to way too stiff on rebound.
>> This allows adjustment to fit your taste.  I am at 2 clicks from minimum
>> adjustment and this gives great spring control with no overshoot rebound
>> after a hard brake stop.  This is with stock springs, Addco sway bars
>> (F&R) and 215/65R16 Michelin Defender tires and a Subaru engine.
>> 
>> I had Monroe Magnum 60 commercial truck shocks on a 6-cylinder 1970 Chevy

>> G10 Van that I pulled a Hobie 18 with during the 1980s and they were
>> great, offering good control and a firm but very smooth ride.  I liked
>> them then just as much as I like the Konis today.
>> 
>> Just my experience.  YMMV.