Rear Suspension on 1990-1992 Broughams.

[Broughamfanatic]

I noticed that every 1990-1992 Brougham rides about 2-3 inches higher in the back than the 1980-1989 models do. Does anyone know if it's the coil springs or the shocks that cause the height difference? My 87 keeps bottoming-out when I drive into the driveway and it's very annoying, and I want to know which parts to buy.

thank you.

[Destroyer]

I had an 87 and now own a 91 and the 91 is substantially higher in the rear. I would guess it has something to do with the air suspension or taller springs.

[brougham]

They changed something on the 1991 and 1992s so maybe that's why they look higher.

[N0DIH]

GM did change shocks when they went to the new body Caprice to allow extended droop for the non removable skirts. Check shock P/N's. Might be something there.

I would recommend using the 9C1 cop car shocks, even cheap ones (but they aren't going to be level ride). But they MUST be looked up in the book, most never have them in the computers at your fav parts store. The cop shocks are much better and last a little longer. You will be much happier with them.

Weak or blown shocks are #1 droop problem, check new to new. Just because "it has pressure" does not mean the shock is good. Parts stores like to argue that one. I remember my mom's 85 when new didn't sag, it was like any other 91-92 I have seen.

I tweaked my 91 SDV to sit level, it didn't always. You can tweak it to sit right, 10mm wrench and 10 minutes.

[90Brougham350]

Do the 9C1 shocks ride well? I'm looking to replace my rear shocks but I want the smoothest possible ride I can get, air or no air.

Brian

[N0DIH]

I put them (front) in my 85 Cutlass was with 442 springs even it was an excellent ride. We put them in my mom's 85 FWB and she always liked the car's handling, it was one of her favorite cars, except for the 4.1L engine.

They are not rock stiff, they just have control, less mush mush ride, more control.

[90Brougham350]

If you don't mind me asking, do you remember how much you paid?

Brian

[N0DIH]

If you get Monroes or Gabriels, they are typically the same price as regular shocks. Bilstiens are $70 to $90ish each. But they last 200K miles, and are WELL worth it.