checking shocks-Bilstein & other - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

signalredcoupe · #1 11-16-2005, 01:02 PM

This question is for the rear shocks. I have Midas Lifeguard shocks & also the originals. When compressing the Midas shocks, it takes some muscle, they have good damping action & being gas charged, they slowly extend back out.
The original Bilsteins however take around 200 lbs to get them to compress slightly, which seems like against a heavy spring & have no damping action. They spring right back to full extension. Its as if you could use them as a pogo stick. There doesn't seem to be any sign of fluid leakage. Is this normal?
Thanks, Paul.
300CD '84:

Hatterasguy · #2 11-16-2005, 06:15 PM

Yes Bilsteins in good shape should require a lot of force to compress.

Hatterasguy · #3 11-16-2005, 07:25 PM

Do a search this has been discussed to death in the past. I have comforts all the way around and couldn't be more happy with them.

#4 11-16-2005, 07:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hatterasguy

Do a search this has been discussed to death in the past. I have comforts all the way around and couldn't be more happy with them.

I have sports, which I really like, but understand there is not a lot of difference between sport and comforts.

phidauex · #5 11-16-2005, 07:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by d.delano

Related question- if I should wish to change my shock absorbers from the current KYBs to the Bilsteins, what would be the best balance of comfort/low speed small bump absorption/big hit absorption/longevity- comforts or HDs?

I'd go with the comforts. When people hear 'comfort', they imagine a big ole caddie rolling along, with a constant waving washing motion as it resonates for 5 miles after each bump. The Comfort bilsteins are actually quite stiff, stiffer than you'd expect from the name. Some people love their HDs, but you'll find a lot of people who bought the HDs, found it too stiff, and went to the comforts. I don't think anyone has done the opposite.

peace,
sam

Ara T. · #6 11-16-2005, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Craig

I have sports, which I really like, but understand there is not a lot of difference between sport and comforts.

Aren't the sport shocks for lowered cars/springs and HD and Comfort for regular ride height?

#7 11-16-2005, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ara T.

Aren't the sport shocks for lowered cars/springs and HD and Comfort for regular ride height?

No, it isn't related to ride height, just stiffness.

signalredcoupe · #8 11-17-2005, 11:43 AM

Thanks, Guys,
I just thought I'd ask as I don't remember the front acting quite the same way. Buy the way, according to the part number on the shock, the Benz Manual says they're FS, but I guess it's the same. Paul central FL
'84 300CD 290,000 restored