HELP Bilstein B4 OEM & Lower Springs

[Rteyp]

Hi All

I have purchased some mild lower springs 25-30mm for my 320/6 and some OEM B4 Bilsteins for a milder ride than a B6.

Now I understand from the guy fitting them that whilst all maybe well when the car sits on the road, when the car is jacked to change a wheel then the spring will drop ! This is because the shock is taller than Spring - I understand this bit.

Apparently the B4 doesn't have a bit sticking out to support the Spring !!

Urgent help please, is there a solution other than getting an alternative shocks ? If not then is my best option a set of stiffer B6s ?

Cheers

[e21-Mark]

Do you mean the spring platform on the front strut? Your new inserts should fit inside this strut not replace it totally. Also, with just -35mm the springs should remain long enough to stay seated.

[Rteyp]

Hi Thanks for the prompt response.

The guy has only tried the rears and believes the shock should be shorter otherwise the Spring will drop off when the car is raised, unfortunately I am at work and cannot see for myself. The shocks do not have stops on them just smooth (rear), see link -

http://www.europerformance.co.uk/pages/ ... ct=3962219

Any advice appreciated.

Apart from being stiffer, do B6's have the stop on them ?

[Jeroen]

Well it is indeed likely that the B4 shocks are longer (longer travel). Using B6's usually there's not too much compression on the springs already. I know the regular B6 shocks are 2-way adjustable and that sometimes is only just enough to keep the spring under tension. Otherwise not only the spring comes loose and may be dislocated, but it will start rattling on the road as well. Cannot think of a decent way to solve that with springs that are too short for that particular shock.

Using lowering springs, I think the suspension harshness will come from the springs more than it will come from the shocks. If its comfort you want, I don't think you want 35mm lowering springs. In that case you better use standard or 'Motorsport' springs (the latter are less stiff than the 35mm kit and lower 15-20mm max) with good dampers.

[Rteyp]

Thanks, the lowering height is 25-30mm. So will B6 cope with that ? I don't want rattles....firmness I can cope with.

[Rteyp]

Hi all

An update. Spoke to Bilstein in Germany today who advised that a simple cable tie will suffice for the rears. So pick the car up tomorrow and will update further.

Cheers
John

[Jeroen]

OK that's interesting! Please post some photos and let us know how it works in the streets!

[Rteyp]

Sorry should have updated sooner.

All OK - false alarm, fronts fit perfectly and rears are fine too happy days. Will post new pics of car in Members Cars bit. Thanks all for your help.

[Jeroen]

Late but good news anyway, great!