Bilsteins for an 86 GT?
#2
I’m pretty sure the front strut mount is of different thickness on the ‘86. Don’t remember if it’s thicker or thinner. I don’t think there is a difference in the rears.
 
#3
It's thinner. You have to install spacers/bushings (big washers) where the bolts go through the bottom of the shocks.

Bilsteins are nice if that's the kind of response you want from the car. They are not designed to give you a comfortable ride and may cause excessive boob jiggling for significant others.
 
Reactions: 2 users
#4
Haha. Ah okay so any recommendations for better handling and a smoother ride?
 
#5
opihinalu said:
Haha. Ah okay so any recommendations for better handling and a smoother ride?
Click to expand...
Yes sir... OEM struts and shocks. With the stock 4-link, it's about the best compromise between ride and performance you can get without spending a ton of money.

I like the Monroe replacements PN 33059 and PN 20767 for HD. If you plan to spend any track time then perhaps a set of Koni adjustable for the rear.

They give me the closest to the original ride that I'm aware of. They're not stiff like Bilsteins.
 
Reactions: 1 user
#6
I think those part numbers are obsolete that I gave.

Here are the new:

Monroe | Performance Shocks & Struts

An industry leader in ride control components, Monroe shocks and struts are backed by premium materials and engineering for quality products you can count on.
www.monroe.com

Monroe | Performance Shocks & Struts

An industry leader in ride control components, Monroe shocks and struts are backed by premium materials and engineering for quality products you can count on.
www.monroe.com
 
#9
Noobz347 said:
It's thinner. You have to install spacers/bushings (big washers) where the bolts go through the bottom …
Click to expand...

Noobz347 said:
They are not designed to give you a comfortable ride and may cause excessive boob jiggling for significant others.
Click to expand...
1. I remember the shims coming with some Monroes along the line for at least earlier 5.0 spindles.
2. Sooooo many CT worthy responses, most not fit for public posting.
 
#10
The 86' spindles are THICKER at 1" compared to the later spindles at .750".
That's why you need to swap to the later spindles in order to run any type of performance dampers.
I had to make the swap in order to install some Bilstein HD's,which I have no complaints about the ride.Would I install them on a 67' Cadillac,probably not.lol
Parts store replacements come with the wider spacing and shims so your able to install them on all years.

Edit: If you think you'll ever make the move to a coilover setup then you'll need something like a Koni or Bilstein that can handle the higher spring rate,parts store replacements are not up to the task.
 
Last edited:
#11
Thanks, my thin 5.0 spindles were earlier.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

R
My 86 GT.
Replies
4
Views
1K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
Willybill32
K
Suspension troubleshooting - where to begin
Replies
14
Views
2K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
Warhorse Racing
W
1
Fox Body Shocks/Struts and Lowering Springs thoughts?
Replies
24
Views
5K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
mikeynonos
Suspension Overhaul - Looking for Advice (Spend my money!)
Replies
4
Views
1K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
JD1964
Fox Build ideas for the 'Hudson Heap' (87 GT)
Replies
20
Views
3K
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
MadSquirrelTech
Menu
Log in
Register