OK - 1000 mi on my S-03s and Bilstein HDs...

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Jul 1, 2001 | 05:25 PM

TTLuvr

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OK - 1000 mi on my S-03s and Bilstein HDs...

Curry's in VA did the install.

Compared to RE 040s, S-03s definitely feel more "solid" - BUT they are noisier at all speeds (perhaps due to a more aggressive tread or different compound?)

Bilstein HDs are great, except under one condition - on concrete "strips", at speed the car seems to "porpoise" (very quickly). Do you think they are set up correctly?

Last note: at about 80 mph I get a just noticeable periodic (in amplitude) low frequency harmonic. Was not there before.

Facts: adjustable control arms were used and needed. Full four wheel alignment.

Any thoughts / observations?

Jul 1, 2001 | 08:49 PM

john s

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"adjustable control arms were used and needed"

You've been had. Curry needs a good explaination since stock size tires & shock stroke were used. Remember stock '040's were made for handling, ride comfort & quietness. S-03 tread looks like it would be quieter than S-02. Make sure tires are not mounted backwards. Try adjusting your tire pressure a few pounds both ways to see if any difference can be noted.

Jul 2, 2001 | 03:09 AM

TTLuvr

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My understanding is that camber . . .

could not be brought into spec without the use of these arms. They tried it without the arms first (they did not want to use them and weren't making any money off of them)

Camber before was -2.5 and -2.7 degrees
After it was -1.8 on both sides.

Checked and tires are mounted in the correct direction.

Jul 2, 2001 | 04:20 AM

225TTR

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Too late now, but FYI Curry's is way overpriced on the Bilstein install charges in general. Not sure

why the needed the adjustable control arms. (Mine didn't.)

Jul 2, 2001 | 08:06 AM

gtt

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for reference what should a good install be of springs, shocks and alignment?......

my dealer who is around the corner basically said flat $500 if I bring in the parts.

Jul 2, 2001 | 09:40 AM

225TTR

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Some have gotten them done for less (PGTT and others), but you were quoted less than Curry's....

Not too bad overall. Curry's told me they wouldn't install my parts, so I got bitten on the parts cost as well. I'd take a poll of areas that are have comparable hourly rates, and at least call around first.