I responded to a few Bilstein HD threads when I had my EVC, recommending against them. They were just too damn firm. Now I have an EV Weekender with Bilstein HDs (installed by PO) and they are almost just right (could be a tad firmer). I can't explain it. Did Bilstein change their valving at some point in time?
Reviews of Bilstein shock absorbers
2005 votes
I have the "new" GoWesty Bilstein Sport shock installed about a month ago. While they improved everything, I was still disappointed in the body roll.
I have bilstien hr shocks and struts for my h&R's and I have no complaints.
I put on some Bilsteins in the back and removed the rear sway bar and it still drives quite nice.
For now sits on Bilstein PSS10's and gets driven on my days off.
I have had Bilstein HDs on my GLS for a couple years now and I also think they are too soft. Still too much body sway and roll, especially loaded for a trip, in my opinion.
I've put the Bilstien HDs on several Weekenders and think they are too soft IMO.
I bought my 2003 with some autostore garbage in the front (Monroe or Gabriel or some such crap - don't remember now) and the rather tired OE Sachs/Boge in the back. The damned thing was scary do drive above 35. Installed Bilstein HD 24-019118 ($203.90 for the pair from eshocks) in the front and the 24-214230 ($185.50 for the pair from eshocks) in the back. Very happy with the result. Took the bus above 100 in Texas and Arizona on the way to California this past January - and what a difference this made! It sat on the road like a flatiron on the ironing board. Also, do keep in mind that Bilstein shocks carry lifetime warranty and the company stands behind it 100%. My S6 currently rides on its 3rd set of Bilstein Sport (after 2 free warranty replacements) in the 16 years under my ownership - Bilstein replaced them each time w/o a flinch. Konis are good, but they sometimes leak. Bilsteins wear out but they don't leak. At least in my experience.
I have a 1993 GL with Bilstein HDs. They are firm but I would not want them firmer. On a heavier VR6 camper I would think they'd be even more suitable for the job.
Bilstein does make an easily-obtained, affordable, heavy-duty shock absorber (front and rear) that's a direct bolt-up option for these cars. It's what I swear by.
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