From:    The Bus Depot <vanagon@BUSDEPOT.COM>

> Kinda idly curious what folks with 2wd's are using for shocks, and 
> what they think of 'me.  I've used the Gasajust GRT combination, and 
> found it to be OK, if not special.

It depends somewhat on what you're looking for. Gas shocks such as
Bilstein and KYB are stiffer than the original-equipment oil-filled
shocks. This will improve cornering and nose dive when braking, but will
also make the ride a bit harder (less forgiving of potholes, road
surfaces, etc.). The KYB's are notably stiffer and are definitely not as
"refined" as the Bilsteins (but are much cheaper).

A good oil-filled shock, by comparison, will retain the "stock" VW ride,
as this is what VW originally used. Boge was the factory shock on the
Vanagon. But perhaps a better choice is Alko's version. For the same
price as the Boge it's much heavier duty - it looks more like a
Bilstein. It performs well but still rides smoother than a gas-charged
shock. In my opinion it's the best value for a Vanagon.

So depending on your tastes and budget, I think either the Bilsteins or
Alkos would be a wise choice. I've never tried the Koni's so I couldn't
comment on them.

                              ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

I'd agree with Ron's appraisal of the various shock options for the T3
but will add my
2 cents worth regarding Konis since I have settled on their use almost
exclusively after trying many different shocks including Bilstein with
whom Konis share much in common.

I prefer the Koni to the Bilstein as they have all the same desirable
attributes like lack of
bodyroll,virtually eliminating nose-diving etc but I find the Koni less
harsh on the vehicles ride
over pot holes,rough surfaces and so on.

Others mileage may vary but I find the Koni as good a performer as the
Bilstein but more
comfortable to have under you...

Cheers,
Steve O
NSW Australia
'92 Transporter WBX Kombi
'00 Transporter Double Cab
'03 Transporter Double Cab (work truck)
'78 Landrover Series 3 Soft top (ex-Aust.Army)