I'm in the middle of my install and I need help

[pookie]

I am in the middle of installing Bilstein shocks on the front of my car and I have a couple of questions.
1. Do I have to reuse the rubber bumper that came off of my old shock? The one that goes on the shock cartridge underneath the dust sheild?

2. The Bilsteins came with a small rubber washer. I think it goes between the nut on the top and the large metal washer that holds the shock in place. Is this correct?

If any one can help me it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance
Ryan

[buttjoint]

I believe the rubber washer gets thrown away. Its just for shiping

[pookie]

Dude that was fast!

Ok one down. Now does anybody know about that?

In the Bentley manual it is on pg 401-3 and listed as a rubber bumper. It is also on page 401-6 in the diagram listed as part #5. I just need to know if this part needs to be replaced on the new Bilstein or tossed out with the old shocks.

Thanks

[aj88cab]

I called Bilstein about the bump stops when I did mine. They said the factory bump stops are not needed, the Bilsteins have internal bump stops.

Buttjoint is right about the little washer, its just for shipping.

Good luck
Andrew

[pookie]

Ok so I can loose both the rubber bumpers and the washers got it.

Now I have another question. Who would have thought changing out shocks would bring up so many questions. On page 401-2 part number 3. That plate, sits in a rubber mount or bumper? It has no number but it is there, attached to the car. The one on the driver's side is ok, but the one on the passenger side is tore up. Does this need to be replaced or could I just take the other one off? I thought I remember seeing an old post by Leland Pate that says you could remove the rubber at the top of your shock if you were lowering your car. I can't find the post now, but is this the bumper he was talking about. I am going to snap a quick pic.

Can this be removed?

Thanks again

[aj88cab]

The strut mount rubber in the photo looks good, the passenger side should look the same. I never heard of cutting it unless you are removing it and replacing with monoballs.

If the plate you talking about is the curved piece that sits on top of the mount, you must use that, it has a tab that fits in a groove on the shock stem that keeps the shock from rotating when you tighten the nut. You will have to grip the plate and the nut to tighten. I would guess it also keeps the shock from pulling through the mount.

Andrew

[pookie]

Yeah that is the good one, the other one is messed up almost as if something or someone chewed away on it. I was pretty sure they were needed, but I always like to check

Thanks

[aj88cab]

I'm a bit confused. Was it the rubber or the curved plate that is chewed up. If it is the rubber, you might need a new strut mount. Can you post a pic.