HELP: Shocks/Struts for 91 Park Ave

[MetaVampire]

Hello PA-Community.

I am living in Germany and I want to replace all my PA's struts/shocks. I want to order directly in the USA. So I have to be certain that I make the right decision in ordering. But the question is which shocks/struts would definately fit?

Is it true that the front shocks/struts are "normal" and that the rear shock/struts are electronically adjustable? (Does the system work with gas or air?)

Which Gabriel's or Monroe's have I to go with?

And last but not least: everytime I search the databases of dealers or manufacturers I read following phrase in the product description according to the assumed right shocks/struts: "Exc. Elec. Adj. Suspension" What does that mean? I think they ARE electronically adjustable...?

Please who can clear things up? Thanks in advance.

°MV


postscriptum
Maybe it is of importance to you that there is a silver writing "DYNARIDE" in the right corner of my dashboard.

[PAman]

I put Monroe Reflex shocks all around on my 95 "Dynaride" last fall. Excellent shock, but PA's want very soft compression dampening, so they "clunk" when it's cold...below 50F. I recommend Sensatracs for that reason. I've heard GM has made the same recommendations for people who want a firmer ride and don't have electronically adjustable suspensions(you don't). You probably have air shocks, though, and these are available as direct (air suspension) replacements...no other parts needed. My experience with Gabriel is the shocks get very soft after a year or 2, then the dampening performance levels off...at little control! Autobahn driving would be best on the Reflex's, but the Sensatracs should be sufficient. Love Germany...nice people, good food, great beer and driving is a blast! Good luck

[MetaVampire]

Heya PAman.

Thank you very much. You "made my month"...

[Jed Rule]

PAman could you expand on your reply? Who makes Sensatrac? What about the touring suspension package from Buick? I have to do something. My 95 rides like an overweight SeaRay on these lousy New York City roads.

[PAman]

Monroe also makes them. My experience w/Monroes on various cars I've had, has been good. Touring suspension used on PA's are excellent, but components are very pricey. Has a control module, dash switch, and dampening adjusters at each shock, and maybe more. Replacement shocks very expensive. If you don't have a car with the option, install would probably be a nightmare. If you do have the option, and shocks are worn, replacement with non-adjusting units is easy and decent ride control can be had. PS: I believe Touring suspensions do not have "level ride" capability, either, if that's an issue. Also, beef up rear springs with TRW "Cargo Coils" - variable rate replacements. And replace rubber spring seat insulators on all corners. Finally, with the road surfaces and temps you see...Sensatracs may work best. Be sure control arm bushings, subframe mount donuts and hardware are solid. Road salt eats away at some of these parts. (I'm from PA...I know!)

[tman]

Jed, I think sensatrac may be their name for something similar to Stabilitrak over here.

[Jed Rule]

I have the FE1 suspension on my 95. I believe the FE2 suspension (called the Gran Touring suspension ) has the 16 in wheels and stiffer struts and springs, and a heavier sway bar. The CCR, Computer Command Ride, with the electronic selector valves in each strut, was an electronic disaster.
I think I'll take your suggestion and use the Sensitracs. Sounds like I'll get the firmer ride at a lower cost than the Delco's. I bought my PA used from a Caddy dealer in Phila ( found on cars.com) but it only has 20,000 miles. The undercarriage was as clean as the topside.
Thanks for your input.