Is the Bilstein strut insert from Max/Classic same as HD?

[Paul7002]

The Maximillian/Mobile Tradition/BMW Classic site shows a Bilstein strut insert with BMW part no 31 32 1 114 384.    https://www.bmwmobiletradition-online.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=ST11&mospid=47129&btnr=31_0440&hg=31&fg=05&hl=6   Anybody know if this is more or less the same as the old HD or B6 which is nla in the US?  I do not want the stiffer Bili "Sport" or B8 equivalent.  They also show Boge and F&S inserts with different part nos for less $, though I'll go with Koni's if I can't find Bili HDs

[Vicleonardo1]

Try this thread: 

 

 

[Vicleonardo1]

Cut and paste of mine from another thread: 

 

So now even a tad more confused: 

Bilstein website: For BMW 2002

 

2 different strut cartridges listed under B6 with different parameters: 

Part Number: 34-632192 Series: B6 Performance Notes:- Parameter 150/80

Part Number: 34-000236 Series: B6 Performance Notes: -Parameter 163/76

 

Then the B8 Performance "Plus" 

Part Number: 34-000250 Series: B8 Performance Plus  Notes:- Parameter 200/60

 

Then the shocks are listed under B6 as two types: 

Part Number: 24-632140 Series: B6 Performance  Notes: none

Part Number: 24-008037 Series: B6 Performance Notes:- Parameter 121/57

 

Shocks under B8 Performance "Plus" 

Part Number: 24-001182 Series: B8 Performance Plus Notes: none

 

Then from the Bilstein website UK describing the difference between B6 and B8: 

I guess its size that matters. The B8's are shorter: 

 

Description from pic: 

Can you see it? The B8 is shorter than the B6.

The Bilstein B6 are a performance damper. They have the same overall length as the original equipment (OE) damper and are perfect if you want a sporty ride without lowering your car. You use the B6 with your OE springs or the Bilstein B3 springs if you are replacing them also.

The B8 is designed to be used exclusively with lowering springs or vehicles that are fitted with a lowered suspension from the manufacturer like Mercedes AMG models.

Lowering springs are shorter than OE springs. When you fit springs to the damper they need to compressed slightly so they are fitted tight on the damper. This is called pre tension. Without pre tension the spring could dislocate while driving which could result in losing control of the vehicle and a nasty accident.

So if you are think about fitting lowering springs Bilstein B8 is the best option.

 

I guess you have to know the specific PART NUMBER for which cartridge you desire and what the different parameters mean..when published.... (of which I have no clue). 

 

Thank you Bilstein for confusing me even more... 

[jireland2002]

Why not just contact Maximillion?

[Paul7002]

I did.  Response on the phone was not really clear.  I emailed them and am hoping for clarification.  My hunch is they are OEM size/length like the B6 (fka HD), and if so, then the question comes down to the compression/rebound rates (the parameter numbers noted by vic leonardo above).  Are they stock, in which case I don't want them, or a bit stiffer like the old HDs, in which case I (and probably some other folks around here) do.    I've been really happy with the HDs and ST springs for the past 15 years/75K miles.  Like our cars, some of us are old and not really embracing change    

[Vicleonardo1]

1 hour ago, Paul7002 said:

I did.  Response on the phone was not really clear.  I emailed them and am hoping for clarification.  My hunch is they are OEM size/length like the B6 (fka HD), and if so, then the question comes down to the compression/rebound rates (the parameter numbers noted by vic leonardo above).  Are they stock, in which case I don't want them, or a bit stiffer like the old HDs, in which case I (and probably some other folks around here) do.    I've been really happy with the HDs and ST springs for the past 15 years/75K miles.  Like our cars, some of us are old and not really embracing change    

 

I too am still ecstatic about my HD's and ST springs. Thank goodness they are reasonably fresh. Still have to thank @TobyB for that recommendation a few years ago. Too bad both seem to be (at least for awhile) NLA. 

[HBChris]

You don’t have to use the B8 if you have lowered springs, I have the B6 in my e9 and they are fine.  I also use the B6 in my 02 with stock springs.  If they still aren’t available in the US, Walloth had them recently.

[Paul7002]

So just to close the circle - I have ordered up a set of front and rear Koni Sports (#86-1519 Front; 80-1868 Rear).  B6 Bilstein fronts are nla in US (back order since 2017).  I went to the Bilstein UK site but they apparently won't ship here.  Specifications on the "genuine BMW Bilsteins" available through Mobile Trad are unknown,  So, much easier to just order the Konis which most folks seem to think are great too.  Note they are on sale now.  $484 including tax and free shipping for all 4 from Tire Rack

[nnywg]

@Paul7002 I'm having a similar issue with B8 fronts - ordered in January and currently "shipping October", though that date slips and slips.  Good tip on the Konis; lower price and none of the hassle.

Edited July 1, 2020 by nnywg

[M3M3]

On 6/30/2020 at 11:01 AM, Paul7002 said:

So just to close the circle - I have ordered up a set of front and rear Koni Sports (#86-1519 Front; 80-1868 Rear).  B6 Bilstein fronts are nla in US (back order since 2017).  I went to the Bilstein UK site but they apparently won't ship here.  Specifications on the "genuine BMW Bilsteins" available through Mobile Trad are unknown,  So, much easier to just order the Konis which most folks seem to think are great too.  Note they are on sale now.  $484 including tax and free shipping for all 4 from Tire Rack

this.  don't bother will bilstiens...just get Koni's..

[Vicleonardo1]

1 hour ago, M2M3 said:

this.  don't bother will bilstiens...just get Koni's..

Beginning to wonder if its time to hoard a set of Koni's.