Shocks & Braces

[Dave M]

Has anybody compared the ride between the pre-facelift series II GS and the 2000 on model? How much of a difference do the gas-filled shocks make?

I was wondering what could be done to improve the ride on an older GS without spending a fortune - I'd like to make the handling more precise and feel potholes (and small lumps of gravel, if we're honest) with rather less clarity!

The shocks seem like a good place to start and I was wondering if anybody has actually tried replacing them on an older series II, and with what results.

I've also been having a look at the Prolex braces. Has anyone on the forum tried these? What effect do they have on the ride (especially the GS' tendency to wallow into corners and generally wander on the road).

I reckon it must be possible to knock some of the rough edges off the ride and make the GS feel more like the car it should have been!

[jdmparts_guru]

Hi ...what year is your GS?

It may be time for new shocks ...

In addition, adding a strut brace will stiffen up a lot.

[Dave M]

It was registered early 2000, it's only done about 36000 miles though.

Any suggestions on what sort of shocks to go for? How much difference does gas filled make over oil filled?

[Matthew_McNally]

Has anybody compared the ride between the pre-facelift series II GS and the 2000 on model?  How much of a difference do the gas-filled shocks make?

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one of our moderators, Colin Barber, had a MkI GS300 and now has a MKII GS430 - I am sure he will give you some insight :D

I reckon it must be possible to knock some of the rough edges off the ride and make the GS feel more like the car it should have been!

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I am looking at Tein CS coilovers for my GS - want to improve the cosmetic appearance, and the handling - and these seem to be used by GS owners who want to maintain ride quality.

if you want to focus on handling - then the Tein HA / SS / Flex may be more in order.

Prolex also do Bilstein coilovers, which are supposed to be quite sporty - maybe approach them about a deal on these and the braces?

[ColinBarber]

one of our moderators, Colin Barber, had a MkI GS300 and now has a MKII GS430

Not a MKI and a MKII, both were MKII (series II) however the 300 was a pre-facelift and my current one is post.

Yes there is a difference in a positive way. The ride is better and it doesn't crash as much over bumps - I can now go over speed bumps without wanting to come to a complete stop and just crawl over them. Not sure if it is only a difference in shocks, springs and bushes may well have been uprated as well.

However it does still crash over an ant in the road and wallow and wander. I am also looking at the Tein CS coilovers.

The wander can be reduced by having a full wheel geometry check. I would do this first because if may solve your problems.

The GS chassis does have a lot of flex in it so chassis braces are probably a good thing to try. Don't think the prolex braces have been tried though. The Toms ones are the best for the GS but are expensive and I am reluctant to buy them without being able to try them first.

Due to the lack of GSs in the UK you will probably be one of the first to try suspension/chassis mods and therefore you will take on a risk of wasting money.