1G: bilstein on all 4 corners?

[91talontsifwd]

I am currently researching a full suspension build for my 1g awd, and im looking to buy shocks that can be rebuilt and revalved myself, as I'd like these to be the last I ever buy. (also would like the option go make changes as I learn more and more, hence the bilstein desire) Im thinking about going with the 3000gt front bilstein hd's with custom shock retainer similar to another thread here. (Ill ahve to look it up again) I would like to mod the shocks as outlined on "autocross to win" to make them a take-apart.. For the rears, I was looking into using the evo ix bilstein hd's and modifying the lower mount to work and doing the same mod for these with the schraeder. Naturally, coaxial top hats and pillowballs all-around....does this seem like a good place to start? Im open to other suggestions and criticism, as these seem to be the only options for bilstein hd's im aware of atm. Thanks everyone.

[jtmcinder]

It's a great plan. Most of the threads you want are linked to by Tim (Twicks) in the fourth post of this thread: evo 8/9 struts and springs on 1g

[mschlanglv]

The evo Bilsteins have 6" of travel. With my car lowered 1", I had 1" bump and 5" rebound, not good. I cut the rear mounts and raised the mounting point ~2", so now travel is evenly split. No wonder it rode like crap initially!

[91talontsifwd]

You just brought up a point that I was concerned about, considering I don't really have information or specifications on these two choices of shocks. (such as full extended length, full contracted length, etc.) That brings up an interesting point...am I going to have a similar issue with the 3000gt shocks also? How exactly did you move the mounting point up? I'm having a hard time picturing that.....did you extend the upper mounting point higher inside of the vehicle? What sort of options are available with shortening the shock rod after the shock is taken apart? Would that be a better option?

[mschlanglv]

I've got pics at home, I'll try to remember them tomorrow evening. I used 2.5" id tubing, plasma cut a circle out of the strut mount, welded in 3" of tubing and welded the cut out circle on the top. The shock rod is now flush with the plastic access panel, I cut a hole for it to poke through.

The problem with shortening the rod is reduced travel. This is a street/track car, I need all the travel I can get. If I was running track-worthy rates less travel would not bother me.

[pagosa dsm]

I am the one that built the Bilstein HD from a 3000gt strut inserts front and rear. If you contact Bilstein west cost and speak to Wes, he was real helpful. He is the person that gave me all the specs for the struts. Check out the thead of BilsteinHD. I have all the measurment and instructions of how to build them.
Rick

[91talontsifwd]

J see that you were thinking about doing the same with the evo ix shocks and decided to go with the 3000gts....do you recommend the same since you have done it? Is it a better fit?

[9!'clipseDOHC]

Sounds good! There were never many good off the shelf 1g suspension options. Speaking of Bilstein HD's, I'm currently waiting on a set to come in for my Evo. The HD's are constantly backordered these days.

[mschlanglv]

Originally Posted by mschlanglv

I've got pics at home, I'll try to remember them tomorrow evening.

Well, no luck finding the pics, sorry. If I have the mounts out of the car I'll make a thread about them.