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I'm working to get Bilstein to correct the improper - too stiff - rebound valving on their rear shocks for the 1800/122 . The ride problem with these shocks is more evident in the earlier lighter cars, and in the 1800 more than the 122, but if the car skips out on corners when you hit a small bump or rough section in the corner, that's due to the valving. Any complaints of a too stiff ride or harsh ride with these shocks are also most likely the result of this valving problem. The valving does not allow the spring to rebound properly, so multiple bumps, washboards, are a particular problem.
Bilstein's US service department agrees that the valving is way too stiff, and is only too happy to fix it - at $65 per shock. I'd like to put together a list of people who would like to get their shocks "fixed" and then try to get Bilstein to give us some consideration on correcting a problem they should have corrected before the shocks were sold. So far I have about 15 people and would like to have at least 20 - 30 to put some pressure on Bilstein to give us a break on getting this fixed. If you want to be added to the list please email me directly -
jparker3@twcny.rr.com
It would also be nice if they would change the valving on new shocks being sold, and the number of people who are not satisfied with the current valving should give them some pressure to do it.
Don't get me wrong. The Bilsteins are a top of the line shock. In other cars, including the 140, they provide a very nice combination of handling control with a good ride quality. Its just that the rebound valving is wrong for a car of this weight and spring rate. Even with the valving problem, they are still a pretty nice shock, as good or better than the alternatives and probably the largest selling replacement shock for the 1800/122. Like many of you, I have had them on my cars, and will accept some harshness under certain circumstances in exchange for their excellent action in others. Its just that I know they can be better, and I know how to make them better. I would rather not pay more to get this fixed, but if I have to spend another $130 to get them like I want them, then that's a small price to pay to have the car handle and ride like I want it to. Ideally we can get that cost reduced.
John
V-performance.com
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