1980 TA suspension question

[70's Child]

Hey guys! Question???

I just picked up a 1980 TA a couple months back. Nice car out of Texas with matching #s. All original beauty!!
The question I have is about the front and rear shocks. The car has a factory WS6 suspension package and it looks like someone has changed the shocks to who knows what.
Can you tell me what would be the correct shock part # for the front and rear on this car? I would like to replace them with a more performance handling, softer ride shock.

Pay no mind to the 6.6 on the shaker - it's a 4.9HO.

Thanks for your help

 

[melsg5]

A performance shock provides a stiffer ride not softer. So not knowing what you are after you can try the current AC Delco or Monroe replacement or look at other options such as KYB, Koni, and Bilstein.

 

[70's Child]

Thanks for the feedback. Your right, I would like the smoothness and still enjoy the performance response and handling. I have looked at the KYB shocks that you had mentioned as well. They look to be pretty much the middle of the road. That may be good bet. Thanks!

 

[cammerjeff]

Also be aware that the WS6 equipped cars are not smooth riding cars to start with. They use different suspension bushings and larger sway bars front and rear. I owned several of the 78/79 models in the mid to late 80's.
I considered them to be rough riding until you reached about 80mph, then they seemed to smooth out at high speeds. Back when the national speed limit was 55mph that could be an issue. Also when just cruising at normal city speeds today they would be quite a rough ride.
Unless absolute originality is a concern I would just replace them with a quality aftermarket performance shock of your favorate brand. Ride quality is very subjective what I would consider a nice handling and riding car, others would consider harsh, or the opposite could be true. I have had good luck with the inexpensive KYB performance shocks for cars driven regularly in the summer months.

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[bulletworx]

KYB or Koni should be a good choice of shocks.