C5 Corvette Bilstein B6 4600 Heavy Duty Rear Shocks (1997–2004)
The Bilstein B6 4600 Heavy Duty Rear Shock (Part Number: 24-029766) is engineered for the 1997–2004 C5 Corvette to restore rear stability, improve traction, and eliminate the “extra bounce” and loose rear feel that shows up when factory dampers age. This fits the C5 Corvette Base, Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), and Z06 exactly when equipped with standard (non-electronic) suspension. Priced as a Pair (2 Shocks)
If you’re asking whether replacing worn rear shocks will make the back of the car feel more planted—especially over dips, expansion joints, and on-throttle transitions—the answer is yes. The B6 is one of the best upgrades for C5 owners who want improved ride, comfort, and control without changing springs or ride height.
Product Details
The Bilstein B6 4600 is a monotube, gas-pressure rear shock designed as a direct replacement for factory rear dampers on stock-height C5 Corvettes. Compared to basic twin-tube replacements, the B6 delivers more consistent damping under load—helping the rear suspension stay composed during acceleration, corner exit, and rough pavement where worn shocks typically allow squat and secondary motion.
- Shock type: Monotube gas-pressure
- Ride height intent: Stock suspension (works well on stock-height street cars)
- Valving: Digressive for control without harshness
- Placement: Rear suspension
- What it replaces: Factory rear shocks
Why Bilstein Leads
Bilstein’s B6 series is widely chosen as an OEM-plus upgrade because of its monotube construction, precise digressive valving, and fade-resistant performance. On the C5 platform, that translates to a rear end that settles faster, feels more predictable in transitions, and stays better controlled when you lean into the throttle—without turning the car into a harsh, track-only ride.
Benefits
- Improved rear stability: Reduces float and unwanted rear movement
- Better traction feel: More controlled weight transfer under acceleration
- Reduced rear squat: Helps launches and on-throttle transitions feel cleaner
- Consistent damping: Maintains control on uneven pavement and long drives
- OEM-plus ride quality: Firm, controlled, and still street-friendly
What to Expect After Installation
Most owners notice the rear of the car feels tighter immediately—especially over bumpy roads and during quick lane changes. The suspension settles faster after dips, and the car feels more stable when accelerating out of corners. You should not expect a ride-height change; this is a damping/control upgrade, not a spring change.
- Reduced bounce over expansion joints and rough pavement
- More planted rear feel during acceleration
- Cleaner transitions in corner exit and highway lane changes
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 24-029766
- Brand: Bilstein
- Product Type: Rear shock absorber
- Shock Design: Monotube gas-pressure
- Valving Type: Digressive
- Placement: Rear suspension
- Ride Height Intent: Stock height
- Adjustability: None
- Finish: Yellow shock body with blue boot (typical Bilstein B6 appearance)
Installation Overview
This upgrade installs using factory mounting points and is a direct-fit replacement for the original rear dampers.
- Direct-fit installation
- No cutting or fabrication required
- Basic hand tools recommended
- Professional alignment recommended after suspension work
- Estimated install time: 1–2 hours
Corvette Compatibility
- This fits the 1997–2004 C5 Corvette exactly: Base, Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), and Z06
- Body styles: Coupe and Convertible
- Suspension requirement: Standard (non-electronic) suspension
- Important electronic suspension note (rare C5 option): Some 2003–2004 C5 Corvettes were equipped with Magnetic Selective Ride Control / Mag Ride (commonly referenced with RPO F55/FE4 depending on configuration). If your car has factory electronic damping, installing non-electronic shocks typically requires shock simulators or a proper system conversion.
- How to tell: Look for an adjustable suspension toggle/switch near the center console controls. If it has a selector for damping/ride modes, confirm electronic suspension before ordering.
Cross-Compatibility & Related Fitment
- Designed exclusively for C5 Corvette (1997–2004)
- Compatible with all factory rear suspension configurations on standard (non-electronic) cars
- Not compatible with C6, C7, or newer platforms
- Recommended supporting upgrades: rear sway bar end links, control arm bushings, and a general suspension inspection (ball joints, mounts, hardware)
Testimonials
“The rear of my C5 finally feels planted again. Less bounce over rough roads and way more confidence when getting on the throttle.”
— Jason P., 2001 Corvette Z06
Restore the control your Corvette was designed to deliver with the Bilstein B6 4600 Heavy Duty Rear Shocks (24-029766). If your C5 feels loose or unsettled in the rear, this direct-fit upgrade is the smart fix—order today and tighten up the ride the right way.