Anyone Else Playing with Ai for Restoration Research?

[7E-Bodies]

Wondering if anyone else is saving time researching restoration stuff. It took a couple of years, primarily because it first kind of freaked me out, but after realizing it's just a search engine with warp speed after burners, I now use Grok (grok.com). It seems to scan multiple forums and much more in milliseconds. If you haven't tried it, give it a spin regarding something on your e-body. I'm hooked, but still rely on the expertise of this group for final decisions.

[Finoke]

Yes, glad to hear that i'm not the only one. I use Perplexity and it is very useful. I usually phrase my questions to include E body cuda challenger then my question. Works great. Perplexity cites the sources in the answers. Not sure if the other AI research tools do.

[7E-Bodies]

Yes, glad to hear that i'm not the only one. I use Perplexity and it is very useful. I usually phrase my questions to include E body cuda challenger then my question. Works great. Perplexity cites the sources in the answers. Not sure if the other AI research tools do.

Grok definitely does.

[7E-Bodies]

For instance I asked this:
Where do I order the most original looking front shock absorbers for a 1970 Dodge Challenger RT taking into consideration performance and quality?

Grok answered:

For the most original-looking front shock absorbers on a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T, while balancing performance and quality, the top recommendation is the Koni Classic series (part number 82-1900 for fronts). These are designed as direct bolt-in replacements for classic Mopar E-body vehicles like your Challenger, featuring a vintage-style twin-tube design that closely mimics the factory appearance (including the correct length, mounting points, and overall aesthetics) without modern coil-over or strut-like modifications that could alter the under-hood or chassis look. Unlike generic aftermarket options that might have a more contemporary anodized or brightly colored finish, Koni Classics have a subtle, period-correct black painted body that blends seamlessly with a restoration.
Why Koni Classics?
•  Original Appearance: They replicate the OEM shock's proportions and mounting (upper stem, lower eyelet) for an authentic fit, avoiding the bulky or exposed valving seen on high-performance monotubes. This makes them ideal for show-quality restorations where visibility under the car or in the wheel wells matters.
•  Performance: As a performance upgrade, they offer rebound adjustability (via a simple tool-accessible knob) to fine-tune damping for better handling, reduced body roll, and improved stability—especially beneficial for an R/T's heavier V8 setup (e.g., 383 or 440 engine). Users report a firmer yet controlled ride compared to stock, with better fade resistance during spirited driving, without sacrificing daily drivability. They're valved specifically for Mopar muscle cars, providing up to 25% more damping than originals for enhanced cornering and braking.
•  Quality and Durability: Built in the Netherlands with high-pressure gas charging and monotube-like internals in a twin-tube body, they're rebuildable, dyno-tested, and backed by a lifetime warranty. They're a favorite among restorers for their longevity (many last 50,000+ miles) and resistance to oil foaming or seal wear. Forum users on sites like For E Bodies Only praise them for transforming handling on 1970 Challengers without the stiffness of drag-oriented shocks.
•  Compatibility: Fits 1970-1974 Dodge Challenger (E-body) front suspension with stock torsion bars and control arms. No modifications needed; extended length is ~23.88 inches, compressed ~14.88 inches. Pair with matching rears (Koni 82-1901) for balanced performance.
If you want an even closer OEM visual match but slightly less performance, consider the Gabriel Ultra Classic (part 43100) as a budget alternative. They have a near-identical vintage look to 1970 factory shocks, with G-Force piston technology for improved control, but they're non-adjustable and offer about 20% better damping than stock without the tuning flexibility of Konis.
Where to Order
The best place to order for authenticity, fast shipping, and expert support is Classic Industries (classicindustries.com). They specialize in Mopar restoration parts and stock the Koni Classics (search for "Koni Classic front shock 1970 Challenger"). A pair costs around $250-300, with free shipping on orders over $149 and a 30-day return policy. They're an authorized Koni dealer, ensuring genuine parts with full warranty.
•  Direct Link: classicindustries.com/shop/1970/dodge/challenger/parts/suspension/shocks-struts/shock-absorbers/ (filter for Koni).
•  Alternatives:
   •  Summit Racing (summitracing.com): Often has sales and bundles with bushings/hardware; same price range, free shipping over $109.
   •  RockAuto (rockauto.com): Cheaper (~$200/pair) but less restoration-focused; good for quick delivery.
   •  Amazon or eBay: Available, but verify seller for authenticity to avoid counterfeits.
Before installing, inspect your upper/lower control arm bushings and torsion bars for wear, as they impact shock performance. Professional installation is recommended if you're not experienced, as front shocks on a Challenger require aligning the torsion bars properly. If your R/T has any non-stock suspension mods, double-check fitment with the supplier.

[Deezel]

I can definitely see how this can be an asset. Thanks for posting. 

[Lunchbox]

This is interesting, subbed for more.

[pschlosser]

The more specific (to 1970-74 e-body Mopars) the AI inquiry, or the more obscure the answer, the less likely I get an accurate result.  Hah, among some of us, we refer to AI as "Almost Informative"

That said, advice on topics that more broadly applies to a greater number of cars, the better the result.

Some of the best sources for accurate and detailed information on these cars is sites like this.  But sadly, it is also the greatest source of disinformation.  If and when AI engines turn to looking at forum content, to resolve answers, it must be able to sift through inaccurate opinion from accurate data between posts in the same thread.  This, the AI models still struggle to do.  Separating fact from fiction.  They are already making strides in this area.