Date: Sat, 01 Jul 2006 04:18:36 GMT From: "Bob (but not THAT Bob)" <nobodynospamere.com> Subject: Re: Replacing struts and coil springs - Saab 9-3 '99
Fred W wrote: > > Bob (but not THAT Bob) wrote: > > Ben wrote: > > > >>Fred W wrote: > >> > >> > >>>Ben wrote: > >>> > >>> > >>>>Hi all, > >>>> > >>>>I have to replace the front coil springs on my '99 9-3. > >>>>I am considering replacing the strut inserts as well, and here's the > >>>>question: > >>>> > >>>>Can I pair up Bilstein HD (heavy duty) strut inserts with standard OEM > >>>>(white, white) coil springs? > >>>> > >>>>Or do I have to go with the standard OEM struts as well? > >>>> > >>>>Looking at the Bilstein HD struts, they look way more sturdy than the > >>>>standard Saab stuff. > >>>> > >>>>http://www.thesaabsite.com/20050213e.New_vs_old.jpg > >>>> > >>>>If anyone has any experience with this or other pairings of > >>>>springs/strut inserts for a 9-3, I would really appreciate their > >>>>thoughts. > >>>> > >>>>Cheers, Ben > >>> > >>> > >>>Yes you can. I installed Bilstein HD struts in a 2000 9-3 CV with stock > >>>springs. They are made for that. The Bilstein "Sport" struts require > >>>the use of shorter (lower) springs. > >>> > >>>The car will be a bit over-dampened ( ride a bit on the harsh side) to > >>>begin with, but as they break in it will become less harsh and > >>>objectionable, or maybe you just get used to them ;-) > >>> > >> > >>Thanks guys! I appreciate the input. > >> > >>The bloody trouble is that the roads in Quebec are complete crap (i.e. > >>potholes that swallow small cars) and the harsh winter takes quite a > >>toll on them. > >> > >>I'll go with the Bilstein HD and see where it goes. I prefer a stiffer > >>ride and I figure by winter time they'll be "broken in" just right. > >> > >>Fred, any particular tips on installing them, since you have already > >>done it? > >> > >>Thanks again, Ben > > > > > > > > Trust me - Bilstein HD shocks + crappy roads = serious ass-aches. > > They're barely OK on a smooth road, but that's about it. > > > > I switched to an Aero kit (Sachs shocks and lowered springs) for my 9000 > > because the Bilsteins were just too punishing. > > > > Check with these guys for suspension tips: > > > > http://genuinesaab.com/catalog/index.php > > Except we are talking about a GM 900 not a 9000. Yes, the Bilstein HDs > are considerably firmer riding than the worn out OE struts, but not to > the point of distraction. > > -- > -Fred W Opinions on Saabnet for Bilsteins on NG900s vary the same as for 9000s - those with smooth roads like Bilstein, while those like me and the OP with crappy roads find them too harsh.
