Christmas list has new front front shocks on it. The only question is which brand to choose. Koni? Boge? Something else???
Don't want to break the bank but not going el cheapo either. Recommendations please.

'87 XJS coupe, V12

 

I liked the result of Koni on my fronts. Nice tight ride without being harsh.

 

That's kinda like asking "should I buy a Ford or a Chevy"
All the major brands are OK. Just depends on what you're looking for.
Personally, I like Boge which keeps the classic Jag stock ride.
Koni and KYB are stiffer.
Gaz adjustables are very good but pricy.
Good luck in your search

 

 

If you want to replace them for a rattle on bumps, you probably just need the upper insulators. If you really need shocks, I have used Sensen on my Miata and on my Malibu, and will try them on my XJ-s if I ever need to replace shocks. https://www.ebay.com/p/153813216

 

If you are sensitive tot he ride quality, then it is best to get adjustables, as then you can click them to what you like. As nowadays the springs purchased are far less likely to be the same spec as those Jaguar originally fitted, adjustable shicks go a long way to helping restore the legendary Jaguar ride. Gaz or Avo are good ones, I believe Konis are only adjustable off the car, so not as easy to tune.

 

Bilstein front shocks offer very good motion control and are on the firmer side.

KYB and Boge are softer but can get quickly overwhelmed by the weight of the V12 during spirited driving.

Tires and even air pressure will have a larger impact on ride quality than the difference between shocks. So consider your tires when making a decision. For example if you have good 15 inch tires I'd run the stiffer shock to control body motions, the tires will smooth out the ride. If I had 16 or 17 inch wheels/tires, I might choose the softer shock IF ride quality was paramount.

You can also tune your ride a-bit with shock bushings. for example a softer shock bushing on the bottom side of the shock can absorb impacts, and a stiffer top side bush can help keep the shock responsive and in the game so to speak. .

 

I also did the KYBs in the rear with all new springs and I love the ride.

 

KYB all around here.

 

I'm very happy with the Bilsteins on the front of my V12. Much better, IMO, than the KYBs that were there....which may have simply been worn out. I'm not knocking KYBs.

Cheers
DD

 

Bilsteins on the front of my 4 litre. I already had them waiting otherwise I might have bought Gaz adjustables which I have on the rear.

In an age where aftermarket spring quality seems so variable compared to the originals, the use of adjustable shocks takes on a greater priority to try and really find the right balance of suspension characteristics that suits you.

God luck with your choice

Paul

 

I have a set of new rear welsh springs in my trunk that I can't wait to install. What's STALLED me is the cost of Boge springs (edit - shocks!). Penny at a time in the piggy bank...

I have been SO tempted to get a set of the KYB shocks for the rear, but have been worried. People say a STIFFER ride... Is it really that that much a difference? From what I hear in reading other people's posts,,, I'm a Sunday-ish driver and will most likely always be. Should I worry about a jarring ride, with KYB rears?

 

​​​I have a pretty serious back pain from 4 old spinal fractures and 2 ruptured discs. I don't find the KYB's jarring at all. I think tire inflation pressure is more relevant for ride quality. I can't say how kyb compares to stock as mine were totally worn out when I got the car, so no frame of reference. Sundays here too..

 

it's not jarring at all, I'm not sure it can be at 4000 lbs. You still won't feel the road much, but it does float a little less than it did when stock.