Differences Between STD. Bilsteins & Z-51 Bilsteins?
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 5,841
Likes: 19
From: CLT, North Carolina
Differences Between STD. Bilsteins & Z-51 Bilsteins?
Anybody know what the Bilstein valving differences are between std. and Z-51? Standard Bilsteins for a non-Z51 1996 coupe are listed as B462053 and B462054 while Z51 shocks are shown as B462057 and B462058. Reason I ask is Vette Brakes sold me the 57's and 58's at Carlisle this year and I was going to install them on my non-Z51 96 over the holidays when I discovered the discrepancy after checking the Bilstein website for application just to be sure first.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 9,036
Likes: 13
From: Edmonton AB
I do not know what the specific differences are between the standard
and the Z51 Bilsteins. However, I can pass along that Bilstein offers
a rebuilding service and will work with clients to help them with their
particular valving requirements. Several members have written favorably
about their experiences.
Perhaps Bilstein would be willing to discuss the Std vs Z51 differences
with you for the price of a phone call?
Here is a link to the Bilstein Services page. Jack French is the person
that was mentioned frequently as the fellow to talk to.
Some folks there might have the answer to your question.
FWIW, I installed Z51 Bilsteins on my '89 FE1 and the change was not
unduly harsh for my purposes. But note that the base '96 spring rates are
significantly lower than the base '89 rates: 60.0F/26.0R - vs - 93.1F/39.9R (N/mm).
Also, I have increased my rear spring rate, changed sway bars and added
chassis stiffeners. YMMV.
.
and the Z51 Bilsteins. However, I can pass along that Bilstein offers
a rebuilding service and will work with clients to help them with their
particular valving requirements. Several members have written favorably
about their experiences.
Perhaps Bilstein would be willing to discuss the Std vs Z51 differences
with you for the price of a phone call?
Here is a link to the Bilstein Services page. Jack French is the person
that was mentioned frequently as the fellow to talk to.
1-858-386-5900
AFTERMARKET & MOTORSPORTS
HEADQUARTERS
14102 Stowe Drive
Poway, CA. 92064
You might also consider creating a thread in the AutoX & RR section.AFTERMARKET & MOTORSPORTS
HEADQUARTERS
14102 Stowe Drive
Poway, CA. 92064
Some folks there might have the answer to your question.
FWIW, I installed Z51 Bilsteins on my '89 FE1 and the change was not
unduly harsh for my purposes. But note that the base '96 spring rates are
significantly lower than the base '89 rates: 60.0F/26.0R - vs - 93.1F/39.9R (N/mm).
Also, I have increased my rear spring rate, changed sway bars and added
chassis stiffeners. YMMV.
.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 6,564
Likes: 6
From: Woodstock Georgia
Interesting. I am about to order a set of 4 Bilsteins and trying to decide between the HD or Sport valving. So far it seems the sport are better for performance, but a harsher ride. Since our roads here are so smooth anyway I am leaning toward the sport version knowing I will get the harsher ride, but adding the back road handling capability would be a nice plus. Dang, Decisions, Decisions. 
What to do? 
What to do?
