Edelbrock shocks question

[GnatGoSplat]

I picked up a set of brand new Edelbrock Performer IAS shocks for the rear and a used set of front ones that the guy claimed were only used 1-2 wks, but decided to pull because of problems with the autoride system. They look good so he was probably telling the truth, but I just noticed the rears which are brand new are fairly easy to compress and extend fairly quickly, but the used fronts are almost impossible to compress by hand. If I put all my weight into it (200 lbs) they'll compress, but very slowly, and extend very slowly. Is this normal, or did I get ripped off?

[mcreyaufmiller]

The front carries more weight on a regular basis ie. your motor, so they will need to be stiffer. Remember the shocks are designed to reduce the bounce caused by your springie springs and to keep your wheels on the ground on rough roads.

[GnatGoSplat]

Thanks, I installed them on Saturday.

You're right, they don't feel overly stiff at all. In fact, they feel great!

 

2 of my old shocks were weak and made gurgling sounds when I compressed them. 1 was completely dead! It had ZERO gas charge, that one was super easy to remove! Only 1 shock still had any life left in it at all.

 

Now it rides like a brand new truck. I don't know what Bilsteins or other brands feel like, but from what I can tell, Edelbrocks are very good shocks. I also like how they are upside-down to reduce unsprung weight. Very unique.