The Bilstein Motorsport AK Series rear shock for 1973–1981 Buick Century (part 24-291699) is a 46mm monotube gas-pressure damper. The manufacturer describes AK shocks as built for motorsports applications that require OE mounting components, and each unit uses steel spring valve discs for consistent, fade-free damping. Compared with a worn stock unit, the real benefit is that a racer keeps factory mounting points while getting a damper designed to hold its feel through repeated hard laps. Owners on user forums who have compared gas-charged shocks describe Bilstein valving as more controlled, with less harshness over bumps. Search terms this part matches include 1973-81 Buick Century rear track shock, Bilstein AK 24-291699, monotube gas shock for spec racing, and fade-free bolt-in Century damper. Fitment is commonly listed for 1973–1981 Century models, but year and trim breakdowns vary, so confirm your car before ordering.
User forums report that the manufacturer positions the AK line for spec racing and autocross rather than daily-driver ride comfort, with looser valving than its B6 line. Street-focused drivers should weigh that against a B6 before buying. For installation, owners on user forums warn that rubber bushings can squirm out of place or crush when the mounting plate is not aligned to the upper shock mount, so check plate orientation before final torque. Use the manufacturer's installation instructions for torque values, and confirm warranty terms directly with the manufacturer.
Pack quantity for 24-291699 should be confirmed with the manufacturer before ordering. The manufacturer's data for a related AK shock lists a quantity of two per vehicle, so plan to replace both rear shocks together.
The manufacturer describes the AK Series as designed for motorsports applications. Owners on user forums report that AK valving is looser than the B6 line, so a street-focused driver may be happier with a B6. Check your sanctioning body's rules if you plan to race.
The manufacturer describes the AK line as built for OE mounting components, so it is designed to use factory-style mounting points. Confirm the year and rear-wheel-drive configuration of your car against the manufacturer's fitment information before installing.
This is a rear shock replacement that bolts into existing mounts, so it is a driveway-level job with the car safely supported on jack stands. Owners on user forums report that bushings can squirm out of position or crush if the mounting plate is not aligned with the upper shock mount, so set plate orientation before tightening. Follow the manufacturer's installation sheet for torque values, and replace both rear shocks together for balanced damping.
