Hi Matt,

        I look forward to hearing your project status.  

I don’t have a source of shocks.

Just a comment on my two vans.  Both have the HD Billstein shocks from GW.  One van has original springs, one the GW lift springs.  Result is the 84 is now the same height as my 85.

        Both vans have larger tires. 

Both vans handle very similarly and ride and turning is great. 

        My shocks in the 85 were in terrible shape when I replaced them. 

        By the way this list talked me through the change and I did it myself, on the 85.

The Shocks on the vans are 12 years old on one and 9 on the other.  They are lasting great and I can’t recommend them enough. 

The 84 suspension got a big work out with challenging 80,000 miles and the shocks, spring and suspension seem great.

        I hope you find a good source and good price.  And I look forward to hearing about the project. 

Eric Caron 
85 Auto 
84 Manual 

> On Jun 14, 2022, at 12:24 AM, Matt Drew <t3vanagon@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> 
> Howdy all!
> The time has come to replace the shocks, and I'd love some input.
> 
> Details:
> '88 Westy, 16"
> GW lift springs installed within the past two years.
> 2.1L WB
> 2WD
> 
> Part of the challenge here seems to be availability (as is seemingly the
> case with pretty much every Vanagon part these days).
> 
> I'm looking for something that will provide a smoother, less jarring ride
> as affordably as possible (so no Fox or Billstein).
> Considering OEM Boge (I hadn't previously considered them until they were
> recently recommended by Westy Restorations in SLC).
> 
> Curious as to anyone's experience and input, and if possible (aside from
> GW/Vanagain/T3T) also any suppliers.
> 
> Thanks in advance!
> 
> *Matt*
> Missoula, MT
> '88 Westy, *Ragnar LoafBrick*