From that, I think we can safely say that you shocks are "past their best". It used to be that the effeciency of standard OE shocks would start to decline after 20-30k miles. They'd sort of pass the bounce test but their control of small spring compressions was largely lost. Valving was very simple then. Low price standard ones probably a bit better now with gas helping them for a few dollars more. Bilsteins etc are more sophisticated and complex but for the cost you'll get something with a much longer working life. Vital though that they match both the car and your ideas of comfort. It'll be interesting to hear you comments on the KYB's. I hope to see "transformed" in the first sentance.