RoadrunnerGTS

Thought I'd post a review of GTS Bilstein B16, as when I was researching, I could not find much info. After purchasing a new house with a crazy driveway, I needed to install a FAL on my SPASM GTS. Unfortunately, the FAL kits for the GT4/Spyder don't work with the fixed coilover setup and top mount on the GTS. The Cargraphic GTS FAL kit does work using their 911 kit as shares same top mount, provided you have linear springs such as those on Ohlins or Bilstein. I wanted to retain the SPASM, so went with Bilstein B16 Damptronic.

Part #49-275605 is same for all 718's. Cost around $2500.

The B16D are full plug and play into the OEM SPASM connectors. I opted for a drop of 5mm over the factory SPASM, however after a few hundred miles, there was another 10mm drop with settling. This additional drop caused some unwanted knocking as insufficient preload on the springs, so I raised it again 10mm to keep at -5mm from factory. I think -5mm is the max drop on SPASM setup without running into preload issue.

The B16D kit is marginally firmer, but in a good way. Still composed and compliant, but feel tighter and more solid. The car corners significantly better with I describe as flatter and more mechanical grip, inspiring greater confidence. Sport mode is very stiff, and I'd reserve that for smooth roads or track. Unlike the factory PASM sport mode, there is a noticeable difference between the modes.

I never had an issue with the factory suspension, however the B16's are definitely an upgrade in terms of overall handling, with a marginal sacrifice in comfort.

TRZ06

Does that system allow you to alter the compression / rebound with clicks, or is it just a 2 point adjustment with the sport button?

RoadrunnerGTS

Just electronic on the B16 Damptronic. There is an alternative B16 kit that only has manual R/C, but you'd then need the module to delete the PSAM dash warning because the electronic damping is unplugged.

naddysaad

thanks for the review! I was under the impression that the b16 damptronics used progressive springs not the preferred linear springs?

RoadrunnerGTS

You can swap out for linear, which I did with supplier up front due to FAL. Nothing wrong with progressive for GTS application. If tracking a lot, then perhaps linear better, but I would have preferred to stick with progressive if possible to trade a bit more comfort. In a year or so when I resolved my steep driveway with renovations, I'll likely remove the FAL and return to progressive, although I'm content as it is now.

lowbee

Just curious if you have looked at the DSC controller before going to B16 and why you choose one over the other. TIA

RoadrunnerGTS

I had to choose non factory hardware to fit FAL.Given I now know the positive benefits of B16s, I'd definitely do it even without FAL requirement.
After much research, I am sceptical of DSC on GTS.