Replacing my BOGE inserts with Bilsteins
 

After finishing the CV boots this week in my 79' SC I'm planning on installing the gently used Bilstein HD strut inserts and shocks this weekend. It has to be an improvement over the original BOGE and Woodhead's in there now. I'm wondering if the strut and shock tower bushing plate things need to also be replaced? What would you guys recommend using for spirited street driving? Also, I'm a little concerned about the ride height changing as a result. I'm a newbie and not really sure how difficult it would be to get it back to where it is now if it does rise. Do I need an alignment after that?
Thanks in advance!


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1626705756.jpg

They're used, so might not raise the car as much as new ones. Front height is easy. Measure before you replace the inserts and if it's higher after, crank the adjusting screws out a bit to get back to where it was before. The rear is more work, but the adjustable spring plates may not be bottomed out and you might be able to get some movement out of them.

Don’t forget to drive it after taking off the lift or Jack stands.
It will sit high until driven a few miles.
Then check heights.

That's great advice Gents, Thanks! What about the strut and shock tower plate bushings?

why not? You'd have to check to be sure tho.

get the shocks revolved digressively before putting them in

On the rears, the shocks come with new bushings as shown in your photo. For the front, Elephant sells a bushing kit with the bushing in two halves. You cut out the old single piece bushing and install the new ones. No need to mess with the plate. This will not affect ride height or alignment.

Excellent! Thanks JRS - Thor, I'm sorry but what exactly do you mean about getting the shocks revolved digressively?

I'm guessing he means "revalved" digressively. Probably not necessary for just a street car.

You may also find the front bilstein insert does not positively locate in the bottom of the Boge strut, ie it will move about a bit with the car if not restrained. Get a small insert made up which sits at the bottom of the strut to stop it moving about.