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So here is an interesting tidbit. I recently ordered a full set of Bilstein B8 Performance Plus shocks and discovered something interesting when comparing the rear B8 shock against the rear Bilstein Group N Motorsport shock. Respective part numbers are B8 = 24-020275, Bilstein Group N = 24-000642.
When comparing the length of the two shocks the Group N shock shaft is about 1.5 inches shorter than the B8. I find this interesting as the B8 shocks are supposedly shorter and designed to be paired with lowering springs (according to Bilstein). Seems to me the Group N shock DESIGN would be a better match due to the shorter shaft. Unfortunately the Group N shock is valved at 200/200 which is likely incompatible with a typical replacement spring (i.e. H&R Race spring whose spring rate = 570 lbs/in or the H&R Sport spring whose spring rate is 380 lbs/in ). Probably better paired with a spring with a much higher spring rate such as the TMS J-Stock spring whose spring rate is 1026 lbs /in. When compressed, both shocks are the same length.
I also compared the front strut inserts between the B8 and the TMS modified J-Stock Bilstein. In this case both shocks have the same overall length (both compressed and uncompressed). This leads me to believe that other than a valving change, the J-Stock Bilstein is the same internally as the B8.
Finally, the rear B8 shock is crimped thereby negating the ability to re-valve the shock (this has been discussed in another thread). Interestingly enough the Group N Bilstein is not crimped thereby allowing for future rebuilding and / or re-valving.
PICTURES:
Side-bySide Comparison
Close-up of shaft differences
Crimped vs. non-crimped
Thanks,
Mark
When comparing the length of the two shocks the Group N shock shaft is about 1.5 inches shorter than the B8. I find this interesting as the B8 shocks are supposedly shorter and designed to be paired with lowering springs (according to Bilstein). Seems to me the Group N shock DESIGN would be a better match due to the shorter shaft. Unfortunately the Group N shock is valved at 200/200 which is likely incompatible with a typical replacement spring (i.e. H&R Race spring whose spring rate = 570 lbs/in or the H&R Sport spring whose spring rate is 380 lbs/in ). Probably better paired with a spring with a much higher spring rate such as the TMS J-Stock spring whose spring rate is 1026 lbs /in. When compressed, both shocks are the same length.
I also compared the front strut inserts between the B8 and the TMS modified J-Stock Bilstein. In this case both shocks have the same overall length (both compressed and uncompressed). This leads me to believe that other than a valving change, the J-Stock Bilstein is the same internally as the B8.
Finally, the rear B8 shock is crimped thereby negating the ability to re-valve the shock (this has been discussed in another thread). Interestingly enough the Group N Bilstein is not crimped thereby allowing for future rebuilding and / or re-valving.
PICTURES:
Side-bySide Comparison
Close-up of shaft differences
Crimped vs. non-crimped
Thanks,
Mark
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