Bilstein B8's Struts

[96gt226410]

How are the B8's compared to the B6's? Picking up a used set of 03 - 04 Cobra Bilstein B6 front struts is pretty easy and cheap ($175 - $200 shipped), but how are they with a 2" lowered car? I am using a UPR K member with new stock lower control arms, Eibach Sportline springs, MM CC Plates, and a MM Bumpsteer Kit. I know I'm going to replace my front struts with Bilsteins, I just don't know if the B8's are worth the money ($280 a piece new) over the B6's.
Thanks.

 

[white95]

Some quick research led me to this conclusion:

B6 -> 2000 Cobra R spec -> B8

That is the pecking order for which handle the higher spring rates. This will translate into greater performance based on many other variables (weight, tire choice, etc)

 

[96gt226410]

I thought the B8's were the same as the factory struts on the 00R?
I'm not road racing or really pushing my vehicle to it's limits, do you think the B8's are worth it?

 

[white95]

Nope. The R-Spec is very specifically designed for one application;

“OEM 2000 Cobra R Bilsteins were designed by Ford to control the linear rate springs that came on the limited production "R model". The spindle mounting holes of these struts were relocated for additional negative camber. While they were known as the hot upgrade for IRS equipped Cobras for many years, when Maximum Motorsports began extensive testing of IRS-equipped Mustangs, we soon found the shortcomings of the 2000 Cobra R dampers. Ford used unusually soft compression valving in the front struts in an apparent attempt to reduce understeer. For this reason, the front struts are not a good foundation for coil-over conversions, but they do work well with stock location springs that have rates in the neighborhood of 800 lb/in. ”

You would be better served with the HD version.

 

[DropTopPony]

The B6 is a stock replacement and the B8 is shorter length for lowered cars. This is the info that I got when on the phone with Steeda when making an order.

 

[white95]

The B6 is a stock replacement and the B8 is shorter length for lowered cars. This is the info that I got when on the phone with Steeda when making an order.

How about this?

The B8 is shorter than the B6. The Bilstein B6 are a performance damper. They have the same overall length as the original equipment (OE) damper and are perfect if you want a sporty ride without lowering your car. ... So if you are think about fitting lowering springs Bilstein B8 is the best option.

 

[96gt226410]

Yeah, I know the B8's are what Bilstein sells for lowered vehicles, but are they worth the extra cost? I don't know anyone who has used them, I know plenty of people who use the B6's and 03 - 04 Cobra Bilsteins on their lowered SN95's.

 

[white95]

Yes. They are in the top tier for replacement dampers and you won’t go wrong with them.

 

[joe65]

i have the b8s on my car with coil overs. it works!

 

[DropTopPony]

The B6 is a stock replacement and the B8 is shorter length for lowered cars. This is the info that I got when on the phone with Steeda when making an order.

How about this?

I should have had Trump fire Steeda before he got fired today.