Hey All,

I've got a full set of the Monroe Sensatracs to install on the '94 SSEi, and have been wondering about replacing the rear (and maybe front) springs too, while it's apart.

Symptom I'm noticing, probably related. My rear ELC system seems to be slightly confused/malfunctioning. The car sits a little high in the back, but not to an obnoxious level or anything. And I have experienced the compressor kickin on and pumping up the rear struts, even as the car sits alone parked in the garage/driveway, on level ground. Holds the top of the rear wheel-well around 28.75" from the ground. If we don't drive the car for a while, the battery drains down I'm guessing due to the compressor running, as I've not found any other electrical issues. So I decided I'd just unplug the compressor from it's harness for a while to eliminate the power draw. Eventually the rear of the car sags down pretty low, almost 2 inches from it's raised point. It LOOKS much lower than most every other Bonnie I've seen.

Do you think this is indicative of some worn-out springs, that can't keep the car up at a normal height without the air assist from the struts? Or am I on the wrong trail.

If I drive the car with the compressor unplugged, and sitting at it's lower rear height, the ride quality is not good, but with 118,xxx on the original struts, I'm not surprised by that. Ride quality does improve some when the compressor is plugged in and pumping air into the rear sturts.

If I replace the rear springs, should I throw some new ones in front too? Spring prices are not that bad, from what I've been seeing online.

Your thoughts? Thanks!!

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TomS.
1994 Pontiac Bonneville SSEi
sold Dec, 2014

The ELC system is a calculated (by design) part of the FE2 suspension on your car. You have a leak. Find the leak and fix it, and you'll be much happier. After that, adjust the height sensor.

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I'm sure that mt OE struts are leaking out the air, and allowing themselves to compress. I thought that maybe the springs would hold the car up better even without any air in the strut bellows.

I am excited to get the new struts installed and seeing the difference in the ride quality. I think they have been shot pretty much since we purchased the vehicle.

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TomS.
1994 Pontiac Bonneville SSEi
sold Dec, 2014

Like Bill says, your symptoms are indicative of an air leak. I would be very surprised if your springs needed replacing. Very surprised.

If, after you replace the rear air shocks, you are still experiencing some issues, it will be due to an air leak somewhere in one of the lines. This is not uncommon. Find the leak and fix it. Viola!

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White Horse. 230K miles, It just keeps on kickin'

Ok, thanks!! As long as the springs look good, I'll just re-use them.

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TomS.
1994 Pontiac Bonneville SSEi
sold Dec, 2014