Dozman

Can someone tell me the difference between the red and black colored Boge shocks? Is there a difference in the springs, or shock hard ware?

Reason being, my donor car has red Boges, my shark has the black Boges. I am in the process of replacing all shocks, and was wondering whats the difference and the benefits of having either one. Or are the shocks basically the same, but different colors, for a different year of manufacturing.

PS. I cleaned my suspension today, with some very nice degreaser I have. I have to admit, there was a bunch of dirt and grim under the car. Seemed like 10 pounds of junk that built up, is now laying at the car wash.

John D.

Erik - Denmark

Dozman,
See the Shop Manual IV page 40-51
Black is Boge's standard shocks to the end of 85
Red is Boge's shocks (Sport-M474) (Gas-shocks) from beginning of 86 as an alternative to Bilstein gold
I just changed to Bilstein in the rear - They are extremely hard - Good, but so hard that I got noise (bumps) from the rear of the car when driving on uneven streets - On highway they are OK

Dozman

If I switched from the black Boges to the red Boges what would be the difference in ride and handling between the different shocks? Would it be worth while to switch? Will the changing of the springs from black to red dictate changing shock hardware and grommets? Lastly, my donor shark had the red Boges on the front and the black Boges on the rear. What are the pros and cons of putting different types of shocks on a shark? To me this does not seem wise. My shark will be a street driven only.

Eric,
Thanks for pointing out the area of reading in the manuals. My mistake, for not going to the manuals. I did not think this info would be in there. Good reading and info there.

John D.

Erik - Denmark

John,
The 'black' is standard and the 'red' is sport - Normally most important to have the best (hardest) shocks at the rear - I.e. if the red shocks are fresh (in good order) I think better to install them, and then you have 'red' (sport) all around.
The job, to change the rear shocks is relative easy - Only the long bolts at the lower end of the shocks can give some head edge to remove.
Take care of the conic washers when you assemble! THAT'S IMPORTANT! Consult your shop manual before starting

Erik - Denmark

John,
I forgot to ask, one-two weeks ago, you were talking of a 3" 'sag' at the rear end - What was the reason?

Dozman

Appreciate the advice Eric.

I have reread the mnauals on the front rear shocks springs several times. I think I will trade up to the red Boges all the way around.

Now I just need to order shocks or possibly wait for a friend. You know who you are...

Time to read and reread on the R&R procedure of the shocks front and rear.

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John D.