ride control actuator

[Mr. Kehl]

One of the ride control actuators on my 1992 corvette convertible is not functioning. This puts the whole system into performance ride which is very hard and clunky. I prefer the "tour" ride. Is there a way to trick the system into being on the "tour" setting without replacing the actuator. The actuator module is $1100.00 per shock absorber. Alternatively, does anyone have a cheap deal on ride control actuators?

[c4cruiser]

You should be able to buy a complete set of 4 actuators for $1100 US Actuators occasionally show up on eBay. There are two different actuators: front and rear. The only difference is the length of the wire on the actuator.

Just out of curiosity, did you pull the codes to determine if the problem is specifically the actuator? There are different codes that will tell if it's a bad shock (typically a broken gear on the shock rod) or a bad actuator. You can also verify a bad actuator by pulling the code and writing it down, swap the actuators side to side, clear the codes, and then see if a new code follows to that side.

[Chris Kennedy]

Originally Posted by c4cruiser

You should be able to buy a complete set of 4 actuators for $1100 US Actuators occasionally show up on eBay. There are two different actuators: front and rear. The only difference is the length of the wire on the actuator.

Just out of curiosity, did you pull the codes to determine if the problem is specifically the actuator? There are different codes that will tell if it's a bad shock (typically a broken gear on the shock rod) or a bad actuator. You can also verify a bad actuator by pulling the code and writing it down, swap the actuators side to side, clear the codes, and then see if a new code follows to that side.

I had weak FX3 shocks on the 89 I bought recently and, rather than go through this high priced Bilstein craziness for a system no one seems to be particularly wild about, simply disconnected the unit and bought some regular shocks. But, recently, I did spot a new actuator on Ebay. Go to the Ebay motors site and plug in the info you need to call it up (I used "1989 Corvette"). Sometimes I think of selling my old FX3 parts----the prices for this thing are insane and out of all proportion to its worth/value, from comments I have read.

/s/ Chris Kennedy
Houston, Texas

[c4cruiser]

The FX3 system is a very good adjustable system once you understand how it works. When it came out in 89 it was very high tech and was a popular option. All ZR-1's got the FX3 system and was included on the Z51 and Z07 suspension packages. Some years had FX3 avaialble as part of the base suspension.

Granted, it is expensive to repair but Bilstein also provides custom valving profiles for the shocks for autocross or track use. Doug Rippie offers a replacement controller that utilizes swappable PROM's so you can really customize shock settings. I had recently read somewhere that the actuators may now be available through Bilstein as they are making an adjustable shock system for Ferrari and it apparently uses the same FX3 actuator.

I'm waiting for the F45 systems to begin to fail! Then there is the magnetic ride systems in the later C5's. Those systems are also highly regarded but I would think that the cost to repair these systems will probably be much more than fixing the FX3 stuff.

[Tuna]

Bilstein has the actuators in stock for $300 each. Try calling them at 1-800-537-1085. Ask for Bill Hindorf or Jack French (?) in the repair department.

[Mr. Kehl]

My mechanic tells me that there is a small gear inside of this that is broken. Thanks I will try Bilstein.

QUOTE=c4cruiser]You should be able to buy a complete set of 4 actuators for $1100 US Actuators occasionally show up on eBay. There are two different actuators: front and rear. The only difference is the length of the wire on the actuator.

Just out of curiosity, did you pull the codes to determine if the problem is specifically the actuator? There are different codes that will tell if it's a bad shock (typically a broken gear on the shock rod) or a bad actuator. You can also verify a bad actuator by pulling the code and writing it down, swap the actuators side to side, clear the codes, and then see if a new code follows to that side.[/QUOTE]

[Mr. Kehl]

Thanks for your help. I am not sure if my mechanic is dealing with the right supplier I have found several that sell these actuators for under $300.00 each US.