Author Topic: Bilstein heavy duty shocks (Read 5091 times)

Jorgeconrico · « **on:** May 09, 2009, 12:21:32 AM »

Looking to replace current shocks with Bilstein HD shocks. I dont want to lower the car but at the same time want to improve handling. Has anyone had past experience with these shocks:D

91 318is

John W · « **Reply #1 on:** May 09, 2009, 10:38:30 AM »

The HDs should work great for stock springs. If you don't want to lower much, you may consider installing some stock e30 m3 springs at the same time. They will lower the car about 3/4" all around, but still allow for plenty of suspension travel as well as plenty of clearance for the oil pan from the pavement.

You should be able to find a used set of e30 m3 springs on s14.net or elsewhere about about $100.

I have Bil. Sports with the e30 m3 springs and am happy with it for what it is -- a nice, subtle handling improvement with very little compromise. The HDs should work just as well for this application--maybe even better. If I had a more generous budget, I would have gone with Konis. They're better--and adjustable, although the Bilsteins are great too.

Jorgeconrico · « **Reply #2 on:** May 09, 2009, 01:25:07 PM »

Will the bilstein HDs work with the e30 m3 springs? Could i leave the stock springs on or is it just as important to have new springs all around? I'm on a budget that's why i'm asking. Thanks. I will check on s14.net.

tjts1 · « **Reply #3 on:** May 09, 2009, 08:49:51 PM »

Yes. Bilstein HDs will work with stock springs. I've had this setup for a year before i found my M3 springs.

RidingSimple · « **Reply #4 on:** May 15, 2009, 11:59:42 AM »

What about (as mentioned above) running stock E30 M3 springs with Bilstein sports? I just bought my 318is with Lowtecs/Bilstein sports and I have 3-4" of oil pan to ground clearence. I hate it.

BlackBMWs · « **Reply #5 on:** June 04, 2009, 09:29:14 AM »

Hi Folks!

I have a new set of F/R Bilstien HDs for my 1991 318ic for installation this weekend. (141k miles) Aside from new upper shock/strut mounts, spring pads for the front struts and replacement locking nuts, are there any other parts I should be replacing?

Also any "gotchas" I need to be aware of for this strut/shock replacement? I read about using vice grips or a pipe wrench for removing the front strut cartridge. I imagine a little PB Blaster will help removal.

How much weight should I pre load when torquing the rear shock lower retention bolts?

Thanks! Rich

dark_islight · « **Reply #6 on:** June 09, 2009, 04:25:46 PM »

Quote from: Jorgeconrico;71602

Looking to replace current shocks with Bilstein HD shocks. I dont want to lower the car but at the same time want to improve handling. Has anyone had past experience with these shocks:D

91 318is

I've got the HD Billies in my 318IS and they are excellent. I too didn't wish to lower the car because I use her in the winter and don't want to be a snow plow. :rolleyes:

BlackBMWs · « **Reply #7 on:** August 12, 2009, 08:21:36 AM »

HD Billiys are installed F/R now and work just fine for me. Firmer and more stable than the worn "Sensatrac" shock/struts that were installed.

Now I have a set of basketweaves and will search the forum for solid all around tires. Looking for solid performance first priority, road noise/feel second priority, tire wear third priority.