I have a stock 98 Z28 and am replacing the shocks. I see that most places offer two choices in Bilsteins, the standard and the SLP Bilsteins. Does anyone have some experience or insight into these two choices? What are the differences between the two? What would be the best choice when only replacing the shocks and no other suspension parts?

Thanks
Garth

 

I put the SLP level 1 suspension package onto my 99 Z28. This includes new springs and the SLP Bilsteins. This lowered the car about an inch and improved the ride and handling on the car dramatically.

I would contact Tom Byrne at TBYRNE Motorsports and ask for his opinion. He is very responsive, sells the products that you are looking at, and is very knowledgeable about what he sells and the newer Fbodys in general. (http://www.tbyrnemotorsports.com/)

 

The SLP Bilsteins are softer than the HD Bilsteins. I have the SLP shocks because I bought the whole Level 1 suspension (great deal on a great suspension package), but I would prefer the stiffer shock valving on the HD's. I will probably send my shocks to Sam for custom valving someday anyway. I think the prices are going up September 2, so order now if you want them: http://www.stranoparts.com

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98 Z28 1LE M6 | Autox/RR toy
01 Trans Am M6 | Daily driver, some mods
1LE.net

 

I put the regular Bilsteins on my SS, but my set up demanded more control than the SLP (soft) Bilsteins had. See my sig for details.

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01 Sunset Orange SS
T-Tops, Neutral Leather, ASR, Hurst 6spd, ASR, SS Grill.
348RWHP - 352Max Torque .
Mods package: Lou's Short Stick, BMR- STB, SFC, LCA, Front & Rear Sway Bars, Torque Arm and APHR. Corsa Exhaust, SLP MAS, Lid, Smoothe bellows and Y-Pipe. Holley Power Shot filter,Hotchkis Springs, KVR cross drilled rotors, Bilstein shocks,
Jet Stage II Programmer, Hypertech 180 degree Thermostat, MSD wires, NGK IX 55 plugs, Royal Purple Synthetic package. ProFormance-MotorSports Inc. proform1@bellsouth.net

 

SLP Bisteins can support springs up to 430 pounds when the HD Bilstiens only support up to about 380. SLP may be softer but they can take more spring rate.