What other parts needed when replacing shox?

[ra_pro]

What other parts do I need to get from BMA when I want to change the shox. Do I need to replace strut mounts as well?

[Kalevera]

Definitely on the rears - don't get Meyle...get OEM. Fronts will last, but it's always a good idea to replace them if you can. Get new bump stops if you're installing anything other than a Bilstein Sport. And don't forget new threadlocking nuts (think they're a standard 10mm on these cars -- could be wrong) for the strut mounts...don't torque them down with an impact wrench, use hand tools instead.

Good luck!

[Gooch]

I got Boge struts. They came with the lock nuts. Besides the strut you should get the shock mounts, bump stops, upper and lower rubber spring mounts, and if you live in winter salt country also get the metal cap that holds the bump stop in place.

[warton]

This is the list I got from Patrick, replacing just the front struts and springs (on my 525iT with a locked up Bilstien, < 70k miles, grrr )...
---------
Springs - $99.45 each
Boge 36-747-A - $78.00 each
Lower spring Pad – 31 33 1 124 322 - $3.30 each
Strut Boot – 31 33 1 134 314 - $1.10 each
Bump stop – 31 33 1 140 140 - $13.50 each
Nuts – 31 33 1 092 887- $0.55
Spring pad – Upper – 31 33 1 128 523 - $3.50 each
--------
Peter

What other parts do I need to get from BMA when I want to change the shox. Do I need to replace strut mounts as well?

[Kalevera]

I don't actually own a set of Bilsteins...but aren't they warrantied for life?! Why not just send your frozen one to them and get a replacement?




LOWELL

[John B.]

If you live in the snowbelt get new strut housing threaded caps if they don't come with the new strut inserts.

[warton]

1: I don't trust them not to freeze up again at some random mileage - that costs me $$$ to change out. 2: I'm going "classic BMW" with low-slung springs and Boge (stock) shocks.

I was considering it...

Peter

I don't actually own a set of Bilsteins...but aren't they warrantied for life?! Why not just send your frozen one to them and get a replacement?




LOWELL

[Hector]

and heed to all that has been suggested as far as purchasing replacement components. From Don's and Bruno's site, the job has been pretty straight forward in doing. I got the Boge struts for $78 but momentarily contemplated on getting the Bilstein touring shocks for $30 more. Yves said that the 10% to 15% difference in ride quality/stiffness that Bilstein is claiming compared to the Boge's is bogus and that I'd be better off with just the Boge's stock setup. I didn't have a point of reference for validating his comments but my mind was set on the Boges anyhow.

Autozone rents a nice spring compressor with clamps that grab a pretty good portion of the spring and a safety pin (locks spring in place) to avoid the spring from releasing all its compressed energy in case of slippage. Two compressors is sufficient but 3 are recommended by most here on the board.