Date: Fri, 30 Jun 2006 04:04:02 -0400 From: Fred W <Malt_Houndnospamm-me-not*yahoo.com> Subject: Re: Replacing struts and coil springs - Saab 9-3 '99
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
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