Can anyone fill me in on the differences between oil & gas shocks/dampers and how the difference affects ride, performance, handling etc.

I have a MY00 UK Impreza Turbo that's done 60,000 miles. I think it is time to change the shocks, yet most of my miles have been on motorways. PowerStation are doing geo & bumpsteer soon, plus possibly Eibach's all round but they are not recommending ANY shocks at present - in Rich's words "They're all cr^p!". I believe they are testing a new one now but is not going to be available for a number of months.

So I'm looking for advice/input on shocks in general for two reasons.. to learn more about them technically and the other to hopefully make the right choice as to what & when I fit.

Thanks guys & girls.

 

oil and gas shocks both use oil but gas shocks have a reservoir of gas that puts pressure on the surface of the oil to reduce foaming, overheating and reduction in performance.

 

Thanks for your reply Kippax. Learn something new everyday!

Dave

 

The gas won't actually reduce foaming and heat build up, but the pressure will raise the boiling point of the oil, so that it continues performing normally in extreme conditions.

Modern damper oils have anti foaming additives, so this isn't normally a problem.

 

Pete,

Thanks for your input. Often wondered what the differences, if any were between Oil & Gas. Makes sense.

Do you think it is worth waiting for PowerStation to finish their R&D on shocks before changing mine or can you recommend anything.
I'm not doing track days so only need shocks that are good for fast road stuff. I will be having the Eibachs, ARB, drop links, bump steer & alignment done in the next week or so.

Dave

 

Dave

As I worked with Leda to develop their units that we sell, I am duty bound to recommend them

The development has been on going for years and I think you will struggle to find a more developed system for the Impreza.

My website has details.