Bilstein Sport alternatives?
12-10-2007, 04:55 PM
#1
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'95 E420 SE
Bilstein Sport alternatives?
I am trying to source Bilstein Sport shocks for my E420, but am having some difficulty finding rears. Anyone have a suggestion for an alternative brand that specifically works with performance springs (i.e. Vogtland)?
Worste case scenario: Can I run Bilstein HD's with lowering springs or am I going to be forced to run stock springs?
Thanks in advance.
<EDIT> After some more searching, I found a very lengthy post discussing this very topic. Seems the overwhelming choice was to run H&R springs with Bilstein HD's or Koni's for a nice drop with a firmer but comfy ride. I'll check into that. Sorry for the repetitive thread.
Worste case scenario: Can I run Bilstein HD's with lowering springs or am I going to be forced to run stock springs?
Thanks in advance.
<EDIT> After some more searching, I found a very lengthy post discussing this very topic. Seems the overwhelming choice was to run H&R springs with Bilstein HD's or Koni's for a nice drop with a firmer but comfy ride. I'll check into that. Sorry for the repetitive thread.
Last edited by ShanMan; 12-10-2007 at 05:17 PM.
12-10-2007, 05:53 PM
#2
HDs will be fine but I do lean towards getting Bilstein Sports. I've tried both, Sports are better in terms of ride quality. I don't thrash the car much at all, so I don't know if it handles better. I wouldn't be too worried though! 
12-10-2007, 06:05 PM
#3
MBWorld Fanatic!
the valving and travel should be the same....only that the Sports are about an
inch shorter physically prior to installation to accomodate lowering springs.
general rule of thumb is that if you're not lowering more than an inch or so,
the HD will do just fine.
(my experience with HD, Sport and Koni adj/yellow tube on w210)
inch shorter physically prior to installation to accomodate lowering springs.
general rule of thumb is that if you're not lowering more than an inch or so,
the HD will do just fine.
(my experience with HD, Sport and Koni adj/yellow tube on w210)
12-10-2007, 08:53 PM
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'95 E420 SE
well, it looks like I located a set of Sports, and I intend to lower the car about 1.5" using the Vogtland's, so I guess it's a mute point. I appreciate the feedback just the same...as always.
