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Soft ride struts (FE1 or softer)

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Old Mar 22, 2025 | 10:04 PM
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hrrman's Avatar
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Soft ride struts (FE1 or softer)

Hi, I've been looking for the forum for the FE1 strut part number - I have a LT2 with presumably the FE3 struts, but I like comfort so now that they're beginning to be shot I'd like to replace them with the softest ones I can find. Same at the back eventually (should be easier since the springs are the same, just a matter of shocks). If you have the original part number or know soft struts that fit please let me know!
Old Mar 23, 2025 | 07:47 AM
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FE3 rear springs are firmer than the FE1 springs. Most aftermarket struts and shocks are FE3 or firmer.
Old Mar 23, 2025 | 07:54 AM
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I thought the rear springs are the same (at least from '08 onwards) on both, the shocks being the difference. Guess there's no place to find new FE1 struts.
Old Mar 23, 2025 | 08:49 AM
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There are FE1 soft ride GM rear shocks in this listing

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...k+/+strut,7556
Old Mar 23, 2025 | 11:23 PM
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I don't love them but for the softer ride I would get the Monroe OESpectrum line. They're painted black. I wouldn't touch the blue "MonroeMatic" line.
Old Mar 24, 2025 | 01:35 AM
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Thanks for the suggestions. Looks like the Monroe OESpectrum ones don't come with a spring though
Old Mar 24, 2025 | 07:21 AM
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I’m not seeing them

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...assembly,15174
Old Mar 24, 2025 | 07:42 AM
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One of the things that contributes to the 2LT’s harsher ride is the 17 inch wheels/tires.
If you want to soften up that ride, then get some 16 inch wheels which allows for more tire sidewall to cushion the ride.
And freshen up the shocks and struts with quality replacements.
Old Mar 24, 2025 | 08:20 AM
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Originally Posted by hrrman
Thanks for the suggestions. Looks like the Monroe OESpectrum ones don't come with a spring though
I bought them once. Was awhile ago. Did you try the Monroe website? Also, what’s listed for Cobalt should work.

From their website, listed for 2008 HHR (year shouldn’t matter,) Monroe Quick-strut, 172179L & 172179R. Available all over the place.
Old Mar 25, 2025 | 06:16 AM
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Originally Posted by firemangeorge
One of the things that contributes to the 2LT’s harsher ride is the 17 inch wheels/tires.
If you want to soften up that ride, then get some 16 inch wheels which allows for more tire sidewall to cushion the ride.
And freshen up the shocks and struts with quality replacements.
Yes true, already have 16", even 15" on the shopping list once I find something visually suitable!



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