I just purchased my very first MBZ - a '94 E420 with 117K.
The strut and shock are kind of soft, and I would like to
replace them with Bilstein Sport. However, I want to continue to use the stock spring. Will that work? Or, I'm
better off using HD instead.

Thanks,

-fredv-

Sport and HD have the same internal valving rates. If you are using the stock springs, then use the HD. Sports are for use with lowering springs.

This is the quote from Bilstein's Sport Shock Specs:
Front:
"Recommended for use if shorter springs are installed. "
Rear:
"Recommended for use if shorter springs are installed. On cars with coilover rear suspension, some rear shocks allow ride height adjustability."

I interpret it as, Sport type should be used if the springs are
shorter? However, it doesn't say whether it can or cannot be used with the stock springs. Since the price of the Sport and HD
is only 4 dollars apart each, I kind of like the stiffer one (sport) than the HD. Any info to educate me is greatly appreciatd.

Thanks,

-fredv-

Guys,
I too, was in the world of unknown-nesss ( word?) about the Bilstein shocks. Today, I just installed some Bilstein Sports on my 190E. Many say they sit lower. I didn't notice a difference off the bat, but perhaps within a few short months, it many settle in. The ride quality, however, is not rough, compared to what others may say. I, myself am sensitive to road conditions, and I feel as if the Sports are not harsh at all. They give my car the feeling of more firmness in the turns.

I hope this clears up the cloudyness for all.


vutown

Vutown, I don't see how it's possible for a shock to "lower" a car. As far as I know, shocks control spring dampening, not ride height.

Ken Fuller
1990 300E
145K miles

Kfuller,

I've just heard many people say that when you do get the Bilstein Sports, they lower the car just a tad, lower than the OEM. As for my personal experience, it hasn't happened to me. As a matter of fact, I didn't notice the difference at all. Maybe it sits a little higher due to the newer struts. (But that'll settle in given time)

vutown

This site is dealing with racing Bilsteins, but the general concept applies. Shocks will NOT lower the car. If anything it will sit very slightly higher (positive gas pressure extends shaft) but will "bed in" with time. http://www.bilstein.com/motorsports/oval.html. See the section on "Answering the Racer's Questions".