ProAm's Bilstein Shocks - Tuned Suspension

What do you mean by "Gas Pressure" shock absorber?

The BILSTEIN Gas Pressure Shock Absorber is a telescopic, mono-tube unit filled with nitrogen gas hydraulic oil. The gas, sealed in a special compartment at 360 psi (25 times atmospheric pressure) exerts constant high pressure on the oil column, eliminating cavitations and foaming. the absolute elimination of foaming (no air forming in the oil) results in uninterrupted damping for even the smallest wheel deflections (2mm): a performance which no other type of shock claims or matches.

What do you mean by "Rising Rate"?

Rising rate means that the rate of damping coefficient increases as suspension movements become more rapid, such as on rough surfaces or high speed cornering.
With BILSTEINS, smooth comfortable ride is provided at all times with exactly the right amount of control for changing terrain, road and driving conditions.

What are the advantages of single tube design?

The advantages are:
a) Better heat dissipation, which means better performance. A shock is an "energy converter." "Spring energy" has to be converted into "thermal energy" and the resulting heat has to be dissipated as fast as possible. A shock absorber's effectiveness is directly proportional to its ability to dissipate heat, since a "hot" shock quickly loses its damping ability. In conventional Multi-tube shocks the heat must pass through two tubes. The BILSTEIN mono-tube design results in a cooler running, more efficient shock. A BILSTEIN shock can perform at peak operation between sub-zero weather to 480°F.

b) Much greater piston area: greater sensitivity for small piston movements.

c) They are lighter; reduced "unsprung mass" allows wheels and tires to respond more readily to surface irregularities for improved control; also by reducing the unsprung mass, wear and tear on suspension and steering components is reduced.

1) Piston rod strong enough to lift 20 tons.

2) Precision made to tolerances of .00058 of a millimeter.

3) Highest quality seals manufactured for longest life.

4) Single tube design prevents damaging heat build-up.

5) Rising rate valve system dampens all bumps. No ball check value to wear our.

6) Patented nitrogen gas pressure principle gives better control and safety.

7) Nitrogen chamber eliminates foaming in the oil and shock failure.

8) The Blue Ribbon identifies Bilstein: the shock manufactured to the highest quality standards.

9) No special kits or adapters; simple, bolt-in units. easy to install.

How long will they last?

Like any precision machine, they cannot last forever. Operating conditions will determine their life. However, BILSTEINS contain no ball check valves or moving parts other than pistons. There are no springs and no hinge pins to wear out, deteriorate or get weak with age, use and heat. they outlast any other shock absorber in the same application.

If a BILSTEIN is proven defective due to material or workmanship error, the shock will be repaired or replaced at no cost (excluding labor) to the original purchaser for the life of the vehicle. ( For further details see explanation of the limited warranty in BILSTEINS application list.0

How does BILSTEIN compare with other shock absorbers?

BILSTEIN "rising rate" shocks cannot be compared with any conventional multi-tube reservoir shock. BILSTEIN worked with Mercedes Benz to develop this revolutionary shock. the technology was so advanced that BILSTEIN became original equipment on Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Audi, BMW, and Saab. BILSTEIN technology is so far ahead and so different, that the performance cannot be equaled.

Why aren't BILSTEINS adjustable?

A BILSTEIN doesn't need adjustment to compensate for wear or for varying surfaces. The shock responds instantaneously to the speed of suspension movement to provide the exact damping characteristics required for maximum control, safety and performance. As the terrain or road surface becomes rougher-the speed at which the piston rod travels increases. The working piston is velocity sensitive, so that as the piston velocity increases, the shock internally and automatically becomes stiffer. A BILSTEIN works with the road surface to provide the exact valving requires.
Conventional shock operate at one setting and require manual adjustment if any adjustment feature is available.

Why haven't I heard of BILSTEIN before?

The BILSTEIN factory has been manufacturing parts for more than 100 years in Germany and is very well known in Europe. The highest quality cars, such as Mercedes Benz, Porsche, BMW, etc., are being factory-equipped with BILSTEINS. many others, such as Opel, Ford, Saab, Alfa, etc., do carry BILSTEIN shocks as optional equipment for their improved high performance versions. Also, in every European race or rally competition, 95% of the participating cars win on BILSTEINS.
We have only recently offered our shock to the U.S. public; however, they have been coming to America since 1958 on Mercedes Benz automobiles as original equipment.

What will they do for my car?

Improve the road-holding characteristics: Better tracking, no pitching or nosediving when braking; increase corning stability and reduce stopping distance; reduce wind-wander; increase tire-surface contact, and provide marked improvement in control. The life of steering and suspension components and tires may also be increased. Driving fatigue is reduced because your car is easier to handle and control with BILSTEINS.
BILSTEINS will soften the bumps by aiding the tires to cling to the road regardless of the size or roughness of the surface irregularity. The "seasick ride" so often associated with larger vehicles is tamed and eliminated.

What cars can you fit?

BILSTEINS are listed for over 600 vehicles. There are bolt-in replacement units available for domestic cars, import, trucks, mini-pickups, motorhomes, competition cars and motorcycles.