Suspension / ChassisQuestions about your suspension? Need chassis advice?
Welcome to ThirdGen.org!
Welcome to ThirdGen.org.
You are currently viewing our forum as a guest, which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our community, at no cost, you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is free, fast and simple, join the ThirdGen.org community today!
Hi this might be a stupid question but I couldn't find an answer. I have a 1988 Trans Am, on the passenger side dash it has a "performance suspension" emblem. What makes this different then the regular suspension package? I'd like to start working on my suspension this summer and would like to replace the parts with something comparable or a little better. any info on this or suggestions on shocks/struts that won't rock my wallet too hard. I was looking on Advanced Auto's site and shocks/struts don't seem too pricey but are they any good? Thanks
That probly means you have the WS6 package look in your RPO codes for WS6. I run KYB AGX's and they are pretty nice for the price.I suggest starting at all the mounts and bushings,then struts/shocks,springs,wide rubber,etc... http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...sion-Steering/
That probly means you have the WS6 package look in your RPO codes for WS6. I run KYB AGX's and they are pretty nice for the price.I suggest starting at all the mounts and bushings,then struts/shocks,springs,wide rubber,etc... http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...sion-Steering/
great link thanks. not sure about the WS6, I can't find any RPO codes in the car (they would be in the center console or rear hatch compartment right?)
I don't have any direct information, but generally speaking the mid-late 80's WS6 had 16" wheels, while the non-WS6 Trans Am had 15s. In addition to what's already been suggested, I'd check the door jam decal for the tire size. If it shows 245/50R16s then the tires/wheels are original and it's likely a WS6. The wheels, combined with the "Performance Suspension" badge make it likely it's a WS6, but the best way to know is still the RPO codes.
The "Performance Suspension" badge can appear anytime a Firebird has an upgraded suspension, or anytime someone felt like installing the badge to make their Firebird seem 'cool'. Since the emblem was under $10 from the dealer for years, it's not uncommon to see them where they don't necessarily belong.
It's one potential indicator that the car may have WS6. Whenever possible it's best to verify WS6 by the RPO codes. On GTA and Formula WS6 was standard. On the Trans Am it's optional. From year to year the contents of the WS6 package varied. What you'll want to do is find out exactly what WS6 included in 1988 and look for those features on the car.
I'd look for 16" wheels, and a 36mm front sway bar for starters. If you're really concerned, you can always purchase a report from PHS which would contain a copy of the original invoice.
Thanks I'm not overly concerned whether it's a WS6 or not. Just wanna put some comparable suspension parts on it since it's showing it's age and didn't know if the "performance suspension" badge would have any bearing on what stuff to get. I bought the car in 2001 from the original owner and he didn't seem like the type to be adding extra badgeing (car was all original) but you never know. thanks for the info
I ran across a mint plastic trim piece with the badge on it. I was going to put it on mine, but all my Firebird has is the FE1 "soft ride suspension" option code. I don't want to swap my blank trim piece for this one if it doesn't belong there. FE1 doesn't qualify, right? (And looking further, I think all V6s had this code, so maybe it really wasn't an option, but standard equipment???)
Thanks. Didn't think so, but I was hoping I could replace my scratched non-badge panel with this nice badged one. But my car knows its place. Off to Ebay.
