cypress188

My car: STOCK 1985 190E 2.3. I think its time to replace the shocks & struts. I like to keep the car stock as much as possible, cause I can apply for a collector plate in three more years.
What shocks & struts would you all recommend? I am thinking bilstein HD for front & rear.

Kynyption

blisten HD will keep your ride height. with stock springs.

And lots of good reviews.

cypress188

So bilstein is the way to go all the way, no need to consider others?
Will the HD give a very hard ride?
When you said keep the "ride height", you meant same stock height?
Since my car is 22 years old, springs need to be replaced too?
My concern with the yellow color on the HDs, they may think I have modified my car & disqualify my application for the collector plate...

Kynyption

Keep in mind these cars come stock with billi's

The dont expect you to drive a 22 year old car on old *** shocks.

MTI

I think Sachs/Boge would disagree with you.

The HD Bilsteins are valved similarly to the Sportline struts/shocks from Mercedes. They are typically painted black, as the Sports are yellow. I would be suprised if the coil springs would need replacing. The car's ride height is primarily determined by the coil springs and the rubber spring pads at the top of the coils, not the struts or shocks.

cypress188

Thanks for the info.....
I will replace the front mounts for the struts & keep the coils/springs than.
Mine came with bilsteins, but which type?
a) Comfort
b) HD
c) Sports

MTI

Are you the original owner of the '85? I'm the original owner of mine and it came with Sach/Boge struts and shocks.

The closest Bilstein to the OEM is the Comforts.

cypress188

Yes, original owner & everything about the car is original.
So you think I should stick with bilstein comforts or HDs would be better?

MTI

If you like the original ride, then stick with the Comforts.

85Cosworth

HD is a little stiffer but will last a lot longer.