Bilstein shocks

[udy2554]

Quick question. When installing Bilstein shocks, does the body mount to the axle, or the frame? The writing on the body would make me think the body goes on the frame with the rod end down. That is the opposite of any other shock I've seen.

If I mount them like a normal shock, with the boot at the top, the Bilstein name will appear up-side-down.

 

[sweetk30]

body to frame side unless shock is marker universal.

and i have installed a few sets of these and body goe to frame as far as i have seen.

 

[udy2554]

That's how I went! My understanding is that gas charged shocks, in most cases, will work either way.

 

[andyblack]

All the Bilstiens I've ever seen were mounted with the body to the frame. They may work the other way, but I think they do them "upside down" to protect the resevoir from damage. (They are resevoir shocks, right?)

 

[bigblock72]

They also mount them "upside down" to keep oil on the seal at all times to help them last. Also keeps the heavy part of the shock on the frame to help reduce unsprung weight. Mostly trivial stuff for guys with ginormous tires and 1 ton axles.

 

[andyblack]

Have you noticed much of a difference in the ride with the Bilstiens? I've heard they ride better than anything else. If they're that great, I might get some.

 

[y5mgisi]

Also want to know about ride quality.

 

[udy2554]

I haven't driven on them yet. Hopefully before the end of the month. The shocks are 5125's, not a reservoir shock. They are a long travel though. 14" in the rear, 12" in the front.

Thanks for all the replies!

 

[Huffed Blazer]

Update on the ride please.

 

[udy2554]

The ride on the 5125's is great. I went with ORD crossover, so no swaybar, but the ride is great, even going into corners too fast. I do have 6" springs too!

I also went with a single shock and eliminated to duals up front.

No complaints at all.

 

[howdiy]

The bilsteins on our race car are body away from the frame