Aftermarket shocks

Axxlrod · March 4, 2003

I'd like to get new shocks for my 03 Yukon 4x4, but am wondering what effect this will have on my self-leveling suspension. I don't have Autoride, and I think I will go with Edelbrock shocks. I don't tow anything either. Will new shocks be a detriment to the suspension behavior or make it sag?

What do you guys think?

Shaners · March 4, 2003

I am not familiar with the GM self leveling suspension in the trucks. I had that option in one of my GM minivans, and it was operated with an onboard compressor and rear air shocks. If the trucks are set up the same way, then new shocks are out of the question if you want to maintain this option.

dukbludvl · March 4, 2003

I'm not sure exaclty what you have, but my 2000 Yukon SLE 2wd came with the premium smooth ride suspension option, which is the self-leveling suspension. My shocks were all self-contained (no electrical control) self-leveling shocks and were a bit "fatter" than normal shocks. I recently replaced them at 40K miles due to them leaking, and I put on the thinner Bilstein HDs. That made the back end drop down slightly so it looks more level with the front now... there are replacement bilstein springs I'm supposed to put on the rear to return it to normal operating height. I like the ride of the Bilsteins better -- slightly stiffer, handles much better on turns, bumps, etc.

Axxlrod · March 5, 2003

Yes, the premium smooth ride suspension is what I have. It is self-leveling. So, I gather that if I were to replace the stock shocks with any other type of shock it would drop the rear end an inch or two. Sounds good to me. I'd rather have a level truck anyway, and the increased handling is what I am after in the first place.

I'm gonna do it.