Sup guys,


1990 dx hatch with a problem or two. I recently replaced all 4 corners with brand new oem grade shocks. The ride quality sucks now. Every bump goes straight to my back and its starting to make me hate this awesome little car.


Ive read that Koni shocks are actually valved pretty well for low speed driving. is this true? or should I go with a newer civic or accord?

 

If you are finding oem shocks too hard the Konis won't be any better. Time to look at a newer vehicle

 

what exactly are oem grade shocks?

 

Like stock valving, OEM replacement.

 

that doesnt mean much seeing as many low end shocks are garbage and call themselves that. If he had said a brand that was quality and a price that reflects it i would wonder what was wrong, but most likely they are cheap shocks that are too cheap to be oem replacement...

 

Easy answer, Tokico!!

 

Yep. OEM Honda shocks of that era were actually pretty good. A cheap Monroe or other inexpensive shock won't be nearly as good and will result in a crap ride.

 

ride quality is more than shocks.

bushings.

balljoints.

steering rack.

tires. type and size.

pretty much everything that moves along with the suspension matters.

 

^^
Truth!


Also, don't forget springs.
They have seen 20+ years of bumps and bounces.

 

to be honest, i've found that when everything else is (still) in good condition, springs make very little difference to ride quality.

sure the stiffness changes (response) but "crashes" and jolts and such are not related to springs.

i've also edited my list to add tires.

 

I just replaced the outer tie rods, wheel bearings, and lower ball joints on my 89 civic si. I felt a definite improvement in the ride quality. The car feels a lot smoother and the steering feels a lot tighter. As for my shocks, i have Tokico whites with Ground Control OTS sleeves. The ride quality doesn't compare to a newer car, but it can come close is you replace the following: crossmember bushings, lower ball joints, tie rods/steering rack, control arms, Trailing arm bushing.

 

I think the trailing arm bushings would make a huge difference. The rear has been hopping over bumps ever since i installed my coilovers.

 

No arguments with that.
To me, it comes down to interpreting what the OP is asking.
For me, improving ride quality means adding a little sportier feel over the stock econobox mush.
So I'm in for a little stiffer springs and a good set of shocks to keep them under control.

 

That's a whole lot of info you guys are giving. If the only thing he replaced was his dampers and now the car rides like crap, then it's just his choice of dampers. I agree with Deetz, get some Tokicos. As what was said before, going with Koni won't make it any better