I am looking at upgrading the factory shocks and I am looking for any recommendations. I am thinking the QA1 adjustable front with springs and rear . The total setup would cost around $650. I read an article a while ago that was in the Super Chevy magazine and it took 2 tenths off a LT1. So what are your thoughts? I appreciate the help.

THanks,
Bob

 

First of all be careful of what you read in magazines, you don't see too many writers win racers. I find some of the best advice in the technical section fo the NHRA National Dragster Weekly, where race winning builders provide information.
If this is going to be a street driven car, be careful of what you are doing to the suspension. An all out drag racing set up is not great on handling and pretty rough on your butt. You can probably pick up two tenths by changing to stiffer suspension linkage and still get a decent ride. If you strictly want a drag racing setup, go ahead with the QA1. Basically you want a stiff rear to plant the car, but not so stiff that it can't follow the road, and a loose front (something like 80/20 shock)so that the front goes up easily. You want to shift weight to the rear quickly to get a good plant, and come down gently so as to not to upset the car. Also your right rear spring should be stiff enough to keep the car level side to side when under power.

 

Thanks for the comments. I never thought of it like that. I have not done alot to the under carrage. I do have subframe connectors and strut tower brace. I have not raced it since I have added these parts. They seemed to stiffen it up when under power. But you are right it will be a street car as well.

Thanks
Bob

 

If you find that you have wheel hop, you may want to consider replacing the trailing links and panhard rod with stiffer ones, such as the ones made by Hotchkiss or other providers. Also, lowering the car won't help your ET as the lower you go the less wight gest shifted to the rear at launch. However; trap speed may go up doe to less air resitance.