Quick Suspension question, 05 Lesabre W/Air Ride

[Razzfox]

So I was doing some sleuthing around, because I want to replace the rear shocks in my Lesabre. Just bought it, and upon inspection to try figure out why the ride wasn't as smooth as my 02 a few days ago I noticed that whoever owned it previously had them replaced with Coil overs.

Seems everything is still operational, pump turns on and cycles when car is started, and the lines still seem to be in exceptional shape, but here's my question

I've done a lot of reading on here and a few people seem to recommend the Monroe Max Air's, but I read quite a few people who've noted they don't ride as well as the factory originals. Upon further reading, I discovered someone linking to these here on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...oliid=I29M6UY0N7UA06&ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl upon which a couple people have remarked they're direct replacements, and the reviews on Amazon seem quite favorable. So I'm reaching out to you fine fellows, if you've used either of them may I have your opinions? Right now I'm leaning towards the Delcos

 

[yanks21]

I used Monroe MA822's on mine. They are a direct fit to the airlines on the 05 Lesabre. They ride like new. 1A Auto has them for a bit less $$ and their customer service is awesome.

 

[TTCzar]

I'll throw in another vote for the Monroe MA822. Pretty easy to change out, and air hoses fit perfect and work fine with my pump (have 2005/Custom).

 

[mikenginger]

2004 Le Sabre. I just had the rear air ride shocks with AC Delco shocks today. Now I feel every bump in the road. What is wrong??? They did not use the kit that was included (for $90).

 

[bigsky]

I just had the rear air ride shocks with AC Delco shocks today. Now I feel every bump in the road.

Did you use the ACDelco 504-165, or the 504-547? One issue is the exact OEM is not available; the -165 is the GM recommended replacement. The Amazon reviews (link in first post) are favorable. I have read other reports of people not happy with the ACDelco replacements, especially the -547s.

Many people are pleased with the Monroes. The expense would not be high to give them a try. I think they are close to the OEM; some regard them as more firm. I used the Lucerne Firm Ride replacements 504-146/147 on a PA (will also fit the LeSabre); I think they are a bit "smoother" than the Monroes.

 

[AviatorFrank]

I replaced mine with the Gabriel HiJackers that crossed to the ACDelco part and I like them very much. The rear end ride seems a bit firmer but that could be because the old shocks were worn anyway.They came with enough airline fittings to hook up to anything, even a remote Schraeder valve if you wanted to, and with a few minor changes these fit right up to the existing lines. I think I paid close to 50 bucks a pair at Amazon, free freight. (I don't know how they make money doing this LOL)

As stated, the original Delcos are no longer avail and from what I've been reading the Buick dealers give you this exact part which is made by Gabriel, but charge something like 200 apiece. It took longer to jack up the car and remove the wheels than to replace the shocks.

 

[Razzfox]

Hmm, if I could manage to get my hands on a pair with low mileage, do you think it would be worth replacing them with a set of the original Factory's? Or would you recommend a set of the Hijacker's/the Monroes?

 

[mikec6201]

Hmm, if I could manage to get my hands on a pair with low mileage, do you think it would be worth replacing them with a set of the original Factory's? Or would you recommend a set of the Hijacker's/the Monroes?

My 05 has the factory air shocks , rides great . I used Hijackers on my 94 Century for load leveling . As long as you don't crank in the air they ride real nice too . Think I ran about 25 lbs in them unless I needed more support .