Need Part# for bilstein/koni non adj rear stuts - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

magisnyc · 17th March 2008, 14:40

I need to change the rear shocks on my 02. I'm just looking for an upgrade from the OEM struts so don't need the fully adjustable versions that is often discussed here. Car is street driven on stock springs, never will be on the track.

I prefer Bilstein's but will also go with Koni's if the price difference is significant.

Does anyone have the part number so I an order asap?

Thanks.

palantirion · 17th March 2008, 22:12

Just to clarify, are you wanting to upgrade your struts (front) and shocks (rear) or just the rears? In either case I'd be inclined to stay stock unless you are willing to pony up $$$ for a quality setup that replaces the shocks and struts along with matched springs.

I've riden in an M5 with PSS9s. It seemed to have better handling performance, but rode quite a bit stiffer than stock - although that's not necessarily bad. I'm partial to Dinan's Stage 3 suspension, because it completely transforms the car, and I think the Koni version is very good if you want to save some $$$ over the JRZs (I have an E39 with both).

magisnyc · 17th March 2008, 23:07

I was looking to replace just the rear shocks. I was looking for an comparable alternative to the stock shocks without going with the big $ setups.

From all my searches on the board and online, I only see major upgrade systems that swap out all 4 shocks and springs.

Thanks for the response.

Need4Spd · 18th March 2008, 00:16

There is no reason why you couldn't use Koni sport yellow shocks with your otherwise stock suspension. These units are very high quality and will result in the same ride height. If set somewhere around 1/2 to 3/4 turn from full soft, they will approximate the stock ride but with better control and handling. They need not be adjusted again, unless to compensate for wear many, many miles into the future. Since the labor costs as much or more to replace rear shocks, I'd go with these lifetime guaranteed shocks over anything less.

Lscman · 18th March 2008, 00:33

You should never change out dampers on one end of the vehicle only. Koni's have completely different valving design compared to stock. It is ONLY done by used car dealers and the such. I would never do it on my minivan or commuter car and it will ruin the M5.

This repair method completely upsets the handling, ride and balance of the car. It will turn an M-car into a base model Chevy.

Save your money until you can afford to buy a full set of 4 Koni's for $700. If that's too steep, buy Sachs.

There is absolutely no reason to swap out springs. Most consumers are replacing premium springs with cheaper, inferior springs for no reason....or just to slam the car for looks with no concern about cargo capacity or consistent handling.

Premium OEM springs are typically stable and consistent for about 25 years. Premium OEM dampers begin degrading within a year and often lose hydraulic fluid or to mush/pogo behavior in 3 yrs and 36K miles.

magisnyc · 18th March 2008, 00:42

I have no problem swapping all 4 at the same time (DIY).

Do you have the part number for the Konis?