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Subject:Stock vs. Alko shocks for 91 vanagon
From:jeff livingston-carr
Date:Wed, 15 Feb 2006 15:10:32 -0500

Hello All,
Some will certainly consider this a "dead horse" topic, and I apologize to
those people in advance.  All others, please read on.
I have searched the archives for opinions regarding shocks for the vanagon,
and there is definitely a lot of information out there.

I am replacing the shocks on my 1991 MV, as the current ones give the van
the feel of riding one of those horses on a spring in the playground
(remember those?).  In addition, side winds are terrifying.  Wheels are new
Hankook 195's from busdepot.

I have used KYB's in the past and wasn't very impressed, so those are out
for me.
I recently spent $500 for Bilstein HD's for my Volvo, and the ride is now so
harsh it is unpleasant to drive around (except at 90 mph on the highway,
which is indeed very pleasant). So HD's are out for me as well.

Right now, I am leaning toward Alko's as they seem to be very well liked.  I
am also considering stock (Boge) or non-HD Bilsteins.  My goal is to
maximize safety (control) and comfort.  For argument sake, I am not
concerned about price.  Does anyone have any experience with these shocks in
particular that have not been shared here already?  Would anyone recommend
one over another?

Thank you in advance for your thoughts.     jeff

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