shock question re: my e12 based '79 6er

[bgriff]

Hey guys, I'm having a problem finding shocks for my '79 633 - have any of you installed a used set of shocks on your cars? My intention is to do some performance upgrades in a year or so, but I need to replace shocks now and I'll change the suspension when I do some things to the original engine or maybe even replace it with a b35.


Bob

[T.Hanson]

Not purchased and installed, but removed, cleaned, replaced peripherals and re- installed. I think Bilsteins can be factory rebuilt, or checking used as serviceable is pretty straight forward. A light coat of oil on the tube is not to prevent rust, etc.

Curious where you've looked. e12's are iffy for Bilstein Sports (rear), but e24's usually seem to be listed.

[Mike W.]

I've definitely installed used shocks, with good results. Bilsteins last an awfully long time, so IMO it's not much of a gamble to reuse them. Even KYBs. Boge's I'd be a little more reluctant along with everything else.

[bgriff]

Guys, I've checked with Bavarian Autosport, Parts Geek and Autohaus Az - no one has shocks for my '79 633, I'm sure they're out there, I just haven't looked in the right places. I do buy used parts if it's something I'm comfortable with, it gets a little too pricey trying to maintain 3 of these 6ers using new parts every time. I've just never bought used shocks and haven't tried Bilsteins at all - I've read and heard many times that Bilsteins last and last - I may seek out a set of used HD's if I can find a set that'll fit my sixer. What's the big difference between the Bilstein Touring and the HD's, anybody using Bilstein's touring shocks?

Bob

[GripGreg]

I'm not sure why your question wasn't answered, it usually is, but, here goes; bavauto.com; autoparts.com; shox.comlk

[Odometergears]

Problem is rear Bilsteins are not being made anymore. I just sent my set off for rebuild. $45/shock. They are on the way back from CA now. Took about three weeks. I'm also having the HD's rebuilt into Sports specifically for the new spring rates I'm going to run. They will do anything you want. Engineers are waiting.


Jeff C.

[Blaise]

Guys, I've checked with Bavarian Autosport, Parts Geek and Autohaus Az - no one has shocks for my '79 633, I'm sure they're out there, I just haven't looked in the right places. I do buy used parts if it's something I'm comfortable with, it gets a little too pricey trying to maintain 3 of these 6ers using new parts every time. I've just never bought used shocks and haven't tried Bilsteins at all - I've read and heard many times that Bilsteins last and last - I may seek out a set of used HD's if I can find a set that'll fit my sixer. What's the big difference between the Bilstein Touring and the HD's, anybody using Bilstein's touring shocks?

Bob

I have an e12 running HD's and another running comforts. The HD's are a stiffer ride and the ones that I prefer for the performance of these cars. The comforts are what I imagine the stock shocks were. Both cars are running near new shocks.

I would call Bilstein directly to find out about your options. They are very helpful.

[Mike W.]

Bilstein touring is their budget model. Probably not that bad, but not like a regular one even by design, it's not a gas pressure shock. And they get terrible reviews. Check Rockauto, they show rears for $70 bucks each. KYB gas a just, which is their good line. Look under strut assy, not shocks. They also have fronts, GT2 their budget line for $50 each. That's what I put on the front of my brown E12. I may have some used Bilsteins for sale in a few months FWIW. Many dislike KYB, but I've had good experiences with them.

[wkohler]

Tourings are a twin-tube shock and all they do is make the ride more harsh. I would not use them.

[Mike W.]

Tourings are a twin-tube shock and all they do is make the ride more harsh. I would not use them.

I told you they didn't get good reviews.