SurfnSoCal

My buddy was telling me that if you lower your car more than an inch, you have to replace the shocks? is this true? He is a big BMW guys....so maybe its different..? confused.

yikesaz

No, you don't HAVE to change your shocks. I'm running Pro-Kit springs with stock shocks. I'd like to do better (it's a little harsh) but I'm used to it now & I'm happy.

ex-Galaxie500

It's probably just a good idea to change the shocks to improve ride quality, but I doubt it is absolutely necessary

SurfnSoCal

eh, he is saying that stock shocks aren't made to ride at that height, so therefore they will wear quicker.

do we have struts in the back?

adrenalin

shocks are definately required when raising a vehicle. In regards to lowering a vehicle, most people don't feel the need to change them. Which is why most shock manufacturers offer several different packages (such as Eibach). If you do go with the system that has the proper shocks you will get a smoother ride and better handling. Again, this is not necessary, just an option.

And no, we do not have struts in the back. Springs and shocks in the rear, struts in the front.

RadBOSS

Well generally speaking, when you lower the car you need stiffer spring rate because the suspension now has less travel available to control the bump. Like wise, the shocks need to be valved differently to maintain control (dampen) of the stiffer springs (whether you cut coils or installed a kit). You can get away with stock shocks on a lowered can, but you are also giving away some ride and control.