i have a 1969 el camino and i want to install new shocks to the front and rear. what are some good ones out there that fit the el camino best?

I would recommend that you go with a good set of Heavy Duty Gas Shocks. All major shock absorber companies make a shock for the El Camino. Chevelles and El Camino’s used the same rear shocks. Both,Monroe (http://www.monroe.com/) and Gabriel (http://www.gabriel.com/) make good shocks that will work fine, but If you are looking to get a little more out of your suspension or would just like to have your car handle just a little better and even through the turns, then I would suggest stepping up to a set of KYB Gas-A-Just (http://www.kyb.com/) . Lots of guys on this site are running them and really enjoy the performance they offer, especially for the price. They are very reasonable (around $30 each) and provide some nice performance characteristics. Summit Racing as well as most other auto parts companies carry/can get them. Other good shock absorber manufacturers include Tokico (http://www.tokicogasshocks.com/), Koni (http://www.koni-na.com/), Bilstein (http://www.bilstein.com/), Edelbrock (http://www.edelbrock.com/automotive/iasshock_index.html) to name a few. The latter four companies that I mentioned all produce very nice performing shocks and very good shocks, but the prices are also higher. Ultimately, it's up to you, I just wanted to let you know of some of the performance choices there were out there.

Installed Tokico's in my Chevelle last week and they ride very well. Nice and tight but not too harsh. Cost me about $45 each. Edelbrocks are supposed to be unbelieveable, but at about $75 a pop, ouch. KYB's are a good, cheaper alternative for about $30-$35 like elcamino72 said. A little stiff, but rugged. I've used the KYB's before and the Tokico's are smoother-riding, IMO. Only drawback to the Tokico's is the bright blue color, but you can't really see them anyway (Spray bomb!).