Pro/Cons: Air Shocks

[dfrazz]

My '71 Challenger came with rear air shocks. I am assuming this is to raise the rear to compensate for the larger tires (275/60/R15). It seems to "bottom out" whenever I hit a bump of almost any size. I'm not sure if this is the bumpstops or what. Other than that, the ride is stiff but not unbearable. I wanted to get your opinions on air shocks and if you are against them, how would you change out the rear to maintain the larger tires.

 

[moparleo]

There is nothing good about airshocks. They have always been a cheap crutch alternative to replacing the worn springs. You buy a new set of springs. Just order a set with an extra inch or two arc. They will settle down in a few months. Get the car up in the air to check that the shock mounting area is not cracked/ broken. You can get wheels with the proper offset to fit into the wheel wells. Lots of room in there.

 

[ramenth]

There is nothing good about airshocks. They have always been a cheap crutch alternative to replacing the worn springs. You buy a new set of springs. Just order a set with an extra inch or two arc. They will settle down in a few months. Get the car up in the air to check that the shock mounting area is not cracked/ broken. You can get wheels with the proper offset to fit into the wheel wells. Lots of room in there.

I agree, Leo.

Air shocks are also hard on the upper shock mounts.

 

[dfrazz]

Thanks. It seems difficult to find any positives on air shocks.

 

[burntorange70]

Only thing I can think of is being able to adjust the ride height. Some thing that should not really need done with a car. Other than that they are not much good.

 

[Chryco Psycho]

I fully agree it will hammer the shock crossmember out , you have to run seperate line L&R or the air will swap to the unloaded side enhancing sway & tipping the body even more .
The up side to air shocks is they will hold the garbage can down nothing else !

 

[Adam]

Rear shock mounts, air shocks, warning.









My 71 Challenger (91,000 original miles) had air shocks on it...when I replaced the trunk pan I found the upper shock mounts were cracked. This is the left and right side shock mounts, under the trunk pan. Look at how thin the metal is! It is not strong enough to support the weight of the car. I had to weld these up with some extra reinforcements... If you get under the car you should be able to feel around the top of the mount for cracks, or pry out the body plugs and look inside.