Shocks for A- body with 3in. droped springs

[Roger Poirier]

I'm in the process of installing 3 in. smaller springs both front & rear on my 1969 GTO Judge, A-body. The cars suspension will be equipped with Global West all the way around. I understand stock size shocks will still fit. However, I'm I not doing my suspension a disservice? Is there not a shock(s) that are 2-3" smaller and can fit on suspension properly. I have called Edelbrock, Yearone, Hotchkis, and Original Parts Group which sold me the springs, none of them recommend a shock to use. All No help. Any Ideas? With this amount of money being spent I would like to get it right. Thanks R.P.

[MrQuick]

Hey RP, with a 3" drop I don't think you would need to chance the shock at all.3" on front would be a 1.5" shorter stroke and 2.75" shorter on the rear.
On 69 Abodys the front shock thats used calls for a 8.75" compressed and 13.5" extended.The rear calls for 9.38" compressed and 14.38" extended. (numbers from QA-1 catalog). It looks like these are the smallest shocks listed.
call me dumb F*$# but I think you will be alright....If in doubt, remove your spring and compress your suspension and measure the min amount of shock needed.

just for a comparison I had a 68 GTO with a 2.5" drop in front and a stock rear...I wanted to drop the rear more but sold the car.

[Conekiller13]

I had koni single adj. stock style shocks on My '71 Chevelle with a very large drop. Had about 2" of compresion travel in the shocks. Never had any problems except the shock body did rub on the spring at times.

[Roger Poirier]

Thanks for the info guys. I did get a hold of Koni research. They have a rebuild dept. in which they will allow you to purchase new and then remake to your specs. Addtional $100.00 charge. 8 weeks lead time.

[Roger Poirier]

Mrquick, thanks for the info. Going stock seems to be the best bet. I ordered QA1 stocker star shocks. If they dont work I will go to option 2 and wait 8 weeks fron Koni and have a special set made. I will let everyone know the results when the time comes.