Bilstein shockies

[Abo Bob]

Hey there peeps.

I think I've decided on Bilstein shockies for my 34 because I can lower the ride height without needing new springs, which also means I keep the progressive rate of the standard springs = comfort when cruising but firmness when cornering hard (to my knowledge).

My question is; am I going for the sport version or the comfort version?

And how much have people been paying for these? I was quoted $1k for all four but I didn't ask or get told whether this was for sport or comfort.

Thanks in advance for your comments.

[blind_elk]

Bilsteins are Bilsteins - AFAIK, they don't come in different 'comfort settings' (although you might be able to have them custom valved).

Shocks are there to control the springs. The springs are what supports the car, and what gives comfort (or lack of it) in the ride. It could be that the standard springs will be too soft for the Bilsteins. I have Kings in my R32 GTS4, rated around 280 lb - Quadrant here in Melbourne recommend something like 430 lb springs for their Bilsteins to suit a R32 GT-R.

If you want cornering, you fit sway-bars.

I got a set for the GTS4 for around $1k, so the price you have been quoted sounds about right.

[Abo Bob]

Ah thanks for that. I just realised that it was the Bilstein Hot Rod shocks that come in comfort and sport. I read the thing wrong.

I have been told that the Bilsteins will last 50k with the standard springs and this persons opinion was that it was worth it for the comfort factor.

[R34GTT-R]

i had teins springs in my 34,to stiff and wasnt a progressive rate of travel.ditched them and put bilstein struts and springs car is comfy enough and handles much better.

[Bl4cK32]

Quick question about the Bilsteins (sorry for hijack)

I've got the height adjustable ones, and was wondering when they are set on the top adjustment, how far off from std. is this?

[Sydneykid]

Bilsteins like all hydrualic devices, have velocity sensitive valving so they accept a wide range of spring rates. They are also multi valved in both compression and extension, so they damp an even wider range of spring (and velocity rates) then single or dual valve shocks. Unlike some things in life you do get more for your money when you buy a decent shock absorber.

Bottom line, off the shelf Bilsteins will work just fine on standard springs and accept the usual 20% to 25% upgrade in spring rates you get with lowered, off the shelf sports springs. Obviously competion rates are a different matter, where revalving is always required.

Hope that helps

[Abo Bob]

You're a champion Sydneykid.

[SLY33]

again sydneykid comes thru with the goods!

I actually just bought a set of these bilsteins, SPORT model, as sold by UAS, and cost me easily under a grand. I think they sell them for 920$ a set but i got them a bit cheaper.

As for the springs, im running Kings lows (progressive rate rears) and Kings quote them as 180lb fronts and 175lb rears, and i had them spring tested just to confirm. I also tested my std springs for comparison and i think they were around the 140lb mark, so the kings are about 25% firmer.

Before i ordered the bilsteins i spoke to the aus distributor for bilsteins and the guy was happy when i said i was using kings springs, and that they would be an excellent match.

Blind elk, 280lb in your kings is higher than the usual for them, did you have them custom made at that rate? As for street that is very firm.

Also 430lb springs is VERY firm, too firm for street unless you like drift style- the teins in my car at the moment are over 400lb and unless the road is good, its very bumpy. UAS recommend UP TO 400lb springs for their 300zx track car.

-i pick my shocks up tomorrow, when i get them in ill put up a review.

[SLY33]

Abo Bob, i did a fair bit of reading and research before buying my bilsteins, and the sport shocks are described as 'firm', but also something bilstein describe as 'self-adjusting', and work well with the progressive rate springs, and maintain a certain amount of comfort at the same time.

I also looked at KYB shocks as used in HPI's R34, the externally adjustable ones, and the bilsteins are meant to be better for the money, and apparently you dont need the adjustability in a street setup for these shocks with std/upgraded springs.

[Abo Bob]

I'd be keen to hear how you go. Are you putting them in yourself? Would you need a wheel alignment after putting them in with a lower ride height do you think?

[SLY33]

yes myself and my brother are putting them in (i watch ) It depends on how much you are lowering it, i think if its any significant amount then it would pay to have the alignment checked. Ill let you know how they go!

[cell]

I just got some bilsteins including sprinsfor my r34 gtt for $500.00 off ebay... lower by just over an inch and the best ride ive ever felt suspension handelling wise... stoked they are over 2 g's new in sydney

[Sydneykid]

Hi guys it always amazes me how people avoid gettting their wheel alignment checked. I check the race cars' alignment every time they go out. It is so important to how your car handles and drives and it can save you way more than the cost in tyre wear alone.

It is unbelievable the number of times I have seen cars with $000's spent on springs and shocks that handle badly because their suspension geometry is all over the place.

My 20 cents worth Sly33, get it wheel aligned.