The wait is over, Wes over at Hotchkis sent the Bilstein shocks ($85.00 each) that are custom valved and calibrated for the Hotckis suspension system. These shocks work with the original 1/2 drop 960/F, 278/R spring rate that I have or the new 1.5/2.5 drop 825/F, 243/R system. I opted for these instead of the QA1's. I'm not changing my settings so I was happy to hear that Hotchkis and Bilstein created a shock just for the Lightning.

The ride is firm to say the least!!! The rear shocks a real MF to compress. Eventhough you can let the suspension hang so you less compression travel to install the shock, it's still tough with the stiffness of the rear springs.

This set up with springs, swaybars and shocks may not be for everyone. If you live in the NE and have rough roads due to potholes or any road construction areas, you'll be very upset!!!

The truck doesn't sway. Period.
The truck doesn't bounce. Period.

The truck handles pretty close to what my 2000 6 speed Vette except for the fact that you are sitting 2 feet higher!!!

 

Sounds like what I need!

Have any pictures of the stance?

Congrats on the new setup!

 

I'm going to clean the truck up and post some pics of the suspension and the stance. I haven't driven the truck since I got it back from REM last week. I had to postpone my run to WPB to see what she does at the track with the 112 since it was rained out.

 

After our little ride last night I will vouch that this thing grips like mad. Ride quality is less than plush to say the least. It is not race car, wear a kidney belt and mouthpeice rough either. I think anyone into the twisties could live with it especially if they have another ride for the daily commute.

Eric

Ps. Anyone asking Neil for a test ride do yourself a favor......Hold on tightly to the oh***** handle and gather any loose items on the dash or in the cab. Trust me on this one!

 

I'm still missing the Panhard bar. That will make the suspension complete. I figure hitting the expansion joints on the left hand flyover at over 100 mph moves that rear axle just a little!!!

 

Do you have anyway to get in touch with Wes at Hotchkis? Seems like quite a bit cheaper option than the QA1's.

 

Here is the website:

www.hotchkis.net

Here is his Email:

wnielsen@hotchkis.net

 

They finally did the shocks, I'm impressed.

If they had only done that when the springs first came out I would have opted for those instead of the QA1's.

 

The Bilsteins that come in the Hotchkis kit are still sealed and will have to be replaced every 10-15k. Your QA1s can be rebuilt for under $30 when they wear out.

 

You have got to be kidding!!!! 10-15 K and then replace them!!! I don't drive the truck that often but that's harsh on the wallet!!!

I put 5-6 k a year, so It's no biggy.

 

The spring rates of the Hotchkis kit are pretty hard on the shocks. The 12-15k notes were based on comment from others and your mileage may vary.

 

I think you're getting confused.

He got the shocks that are from Hotchkis custom valved to the drops and springs. Not the stock ones that come with the trucks. I'd think the custom shocks would last a little longer then that. But, honestly I wouldn't doubt that figure either.

 

Aryon is rite to some degree.That mileage figure is dependent on how you drive and where.I drive my truck maybe 2,000 miles a year and have the shocks rebuilt[QA1]after each year.And DO notice a difference at the beginning of the season.But then again my spring rates are almost twice that of the hotchkiss stuff and my running is almost always well of 140mph.

So I can imagine that the shocks that hotchkiss is selling for their kit would need to be replaced after a year or so.They might feel good but put a new set on and you will feel the difference. Stan

 

Disclaimer

All of my knowledge comes form my Jedi Master Stan Martin.

 

Anyone know how much these shocks run for?