Bilstein instalation?
Thread Starter
Slingshot
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 3,817
Likes: 24
From: Charlotte NC
Bilstein instalation?
I'm getting ready to install a new set of Bilstein shocks on my 86 roadster. I know that once you remove the hold-down straps on these shocks, they expand and are near impossible to close. Is there any special tips for the proper and easiest way to install these gas-charged shocks. Any help here will be appreciated.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,061
Likes: 99
From: Seattle WA
It's a piece of cake. You can recompress them once you remove the strap - just put one end on the ground and put your weight on it. I usually cycle a new shock a couple of times to make sure the seals are moist.
Installation is pretty obvious and a breeze. You should be able to do all 4 in 1/2 hour to 45 min. The only trick I can think of is that if the bolts don't line up, just raise or lower the car a little until they do because, as you mentioned, you'll never be able to compress the shock while trying to mount it on the car.
Installation is pretty obvious and a breeze. You should be able to do all 4 in 1/2 hour to 45 min. The only trick I can think of is that if the bolts don't line up, just raise or lower the car a little until they do because, as you mentioned, you'll never be able to compress the shock while trying to mount it on the car.
Safety Car
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 4,283
Likes: 0
From: Houston Texas
For the fronts, I don't even jack up the car or take the wheel off. You can lean over and pull out the old and stick in the new. The rear, of course, you have to jack up the corner, pull the wheel, in order to gain access to top of shock bracket. You could probably, even though I have never done it, position the shock in place, bolt oneside in and then cut the cord to let shock expand and guide it into place. Just an idea.
Pro
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 509
Likes: 8
From: Livonia Michigan
For the fronts, I don't even jack up the car or take the wheel off. You can lean over and pull out the old and stick in the new. The rear, of course, you have to jack up the corner, pull the wheel, in order to gain access to top of shock bracket. You could probably, even though I have never done it, position the shock in place, bolt oneside in and then cut the cord to let shock expand and guide it into place. Just an idea.
