I have a 1991 Z28 that I think the front struts and springs are both bad on and wanted to make sure. I go to do the "bounce" test that everybody talks about but my front end wont bounce at all! I weigh 200 pounds and put all my weight on it and it doesnt bounce whatsoever. Any suggestions? It looks like the front sits a little low, but hard to tell. I also dont know if the previous owner put any lower springs on them or not. Does make a thud sound when going over decent size bumps at a decent speeds.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

You'll probably have to take a look at the struts to see if they are stock or not, same with the springs. If they are stock, I would imagine they would at least look a little worn by now. Springs, unless painted some other color will be pretty hard to tell what they are. Stock ones did have a little sticker on them with a code so you could possibly tell what springs you have, if the tags are still there. The factory struts in my 87 IROC were all black. If they have been replaced with aftermarket ones, they are usually labelled fairly well, or a different color.

 

I'm not as concerned whether they are stock or not, but more wondering if the actual springs are bad or not. I know it wont hurt to replace the struts and springs but I am wondering why there is no bounce in the front end if the struts are bad.

 

My car was the same way. All my weight pushing down and it would not move at all at any corner. I would say your springs are fine. The struts are harder to test. You may have to remove them to make sure they are fully charged. If they are leaking at all they need to be replaced.

 

Could your control arm bushings be worn/seized? If they are it could make the suspension feel hard and bad at the same time.

 

Yes all of the above, now let us know what you find.

 

I will be tearing it working the front end early next month after i get back from a business trip. I will keep you posted on what i find out, thanks for the suggestions.