Best Suspension Parts for Impala and Buick Roadmaster: Forum-Driven Recommendations

The Chevy Impala (especially the 1994-1996 Impala SS) and the Buick Roadmaster (1991-1996) share the GM B-body platform, making many suspension parts interchangeable. Enthusiasts frequently turn to forums like Impala SS Forum and Buick Roadmaster Club for advice on upgrading or replacing tired suspension components. Whether you're restoring a Roadmaster to original comfort or building an Impala SS for cornering, this guide covers the best suspension parts discussed in those communities.

Key Suspension Parts for Impala and Roadmaster

Shocks and Struts

Shocks are the most common upgrade for these heavy sedans. The two most recommended brands on forums are Bilstein and KYB.

• Bilstein 24-187248 (rear) and 24-187250 (front) – These are the gold standard for the B-body. They are monotube gas shocks offering excellent control without being harsh. Many forum members report a noticeable improvement in handling and ride quality, especially on the Impala SS.
• KYB Excel-G – A gas-charged twin-tube shock that's more affordable than Bilstein. It provides a slightly softer ride, suitable for daily drivers who want OEM+ comfort. Some owners pair KYB front struts with Bilstein rears for a balanced setup.
• Monroe OESpectrum – Another budget-friendly option that mimics stock behavior. Not as performance-oriented, but fine for a restoration.

For the front, note that the Impala SS and Roadmaster use a strut cartridge (insert) inside the coil-over housing. Aftermarket strut assemblies (with springs) are rare; most upgrade just the inserts. Popular choices include KYB GR-2 (discontinued but still found) and AC Delco Professional.

Springs

Springs directly affect ride height and stiffness. Common options:

• Moog CC123 (front) and CC120 (rear) – Variable-rate coils that improve handling without a harsh ride. They lift the front slightly if sagging was an issue, which corrects the stance.
• Eibach Pro-Kit – Lowers the car about 1-1.2 inches, giving a more aggressive look and reducing body roll. Forum users report it transforms the Impala SS, but be aware of scrapping on dips.
• Stock replacement AC Delco or Moog – For those keeping the car original. Coil springs rarely fail unless broken, but they can sag over time. Measuring ride height before buying is recommended.

Sway Bars and Bushings

Upgrading sway bars and polyurethane bushings is a cost-effective handling improvement.

• HOTCHKIS 2247F (front) and 2247R (rear) – Tubular sway bars with multiple adjustment holes. Impala forum members claim they virtually eliminate body roll. Pair with their end links for best results.
• Addco 676 (front) and 520 (rear) – Solid bar sets that are nearly as good as Hotchkis but cheaper. Some Roadmaster owners use Addco to stiffen the wagon.
• Energy Suspension 4.5107G (front bushing kit) and 5.5112G (rear) – Polyurethane bushings that replace worn rubber. They transmit more road feel but last much longer. A popular project for a weekend.

Control Arms and Ball Joints

Front lower control arms are a known weak point, especially for Impala SS with stiffer springs. Forum favorites:

• Moog K7400 (left) and K7401 (right) – Complete lower control arms with pre-installed ball joints and bushings. They are pricey but save labor. For Roadmaster, the same part numbers work.
• AC Delco 45G2014 (ball joint) – Greaseable and durable. Many owners replace just the ball joint if the arm is still solid.
• Upper control arms – Less commonly replaced. If needed, Moog CK7406 (left) and CK7407 (right) are well-reviewed.

Choosing Between OEM and Performance Parts

For a Buick Roadmaster used as a daily driver or for towing, staying with OEM-spec parts (AC Delco, Monroe, Moog) keeps the ride compliant. For an Impala SS or a Roadmaster used for spirited driving, performance shocks (Bilstein), lower springs (Eibach or Moog), and poly bushings are favored. Keep in mind that lowering springs may reduce suspension travel and require bump stop trimming. Always check forum threads for specific vehicle weight (wagon vs. sedan vs. hearse) as rear springs vary.

Common Issues and Upgrades Discussed in Forums

• Rear air suspension (Roadmaster Estate Wagon) – Many owners delete the auto-leveling air springs and convert to coil springs using a kit (e.g., Strutmasters). This eliminates compressor failure and improves reliability.
• Bump steer – After lowering, some Impala SS owners report bump steer. Solutions include adjustable tie rod ends (e.g., Moog ES2252RL) or notch the frame for steering shaft clearance.
• Squeaks and rattles – Polyurethane bushings can squeak if not lubricated. Use Energy Suspension's grease or Sil-Glyde. Some forum members prefer rubber for quietness.

Recommended Suspension Kits for Daily Drivers

For those who want a package deal, several retailers (not naming them) sell complete kits. However, forum users often piece together their own:

• Comfort/Sport Combo: Bilstein HD shocks + Moog CC123/CC120 springs + Energy Suspension bushings + Addco sway bars.
• Budget OEM+ : KYB Excel-G shocks + Moog coil springs + rubber replacement bushings.
• Aggressive Street: Bilstein shocks + Eibach Pro-Kit + Hotchkis sway bars + poly bushings.

Check the Impala SS Buyers Guide on forum for part numbers and installation tips. For the Roadmaster, the Impala SS knowledge largely applies, but wagons need heavier rear springs (Moog CC120 is fine; for towing, consider Cargo Coil CC163).

Final Recommendation

The best suspension parts for your Impala or Buick Roadmaster depend on your goals. For restoration, stick with AC Delco or Moog rubber components and Monroe shocks. For enhanced handling without sacrificing daily comfort, the Bilstein HD/Moog CC123 combination is widely praised on forums. If you want a lowered, firm setup, invest in Eibach springs and Hotchkis sway bars. Always replace worn bushings and ball joints when doing shocks or springs, as it saves labor later. Consult forum specific to your model year and body style (sedan vs. wagon) before buying, as some parts vary. With the right components, your B-body will ride and handle like a much newer car.