I'm in the process of replacing the inserts in a set of Bilstein struts.
When I disassembled the struts I found a black ring around the upper part of the old inserts, resting on a ridge about 3 inches down in the strut housing.
O.D of the ring = I.D. of the housing.
I.D. of ring = O.D. of the upper end of the insert.
The ring is about 8-10 mm in height, and is made of black plastic, with a small (2-3 mm diameter) metal coil around the circumference of one edge.
It looks like a dust seal or a device for centering the insert in the housing or ???.
Both rings are worn - and should be replaced. New rings were not included with the new inserts.
I called Bilstein - they said the rings are Porsche parts.
I've talked to several Porsche dealers, including Stoddards, and none had a lisiting for them or had ever heard of them.
Is anyone here familiar with these rings and know a source for them?
Thanks for your help.
Joe Frantz

 

Hi Joe:

Those plastic rings are linear motion bushings and are there to hold the cartridge centered in the strut tube as well as permit the smooth movement of the shock inside the strut housing.

Bilstein has sometimes been able to replace those as they are not available from Porsche. In many cases, were had to buy new struts to eliminate the clunking and camber changes caused by those worn bushings.

 

never knew that.. big time thank you

 

Thanks for the reply Steve -- any idea who to contact at Bilstein as to whether they can be replaced.
Joe

 

Hi Joe:

Just call the Tech dept and ask them if they still rebush Bilstein 911 struts.