Hi folks... I own a 2001A4, 1.8T, 5 speed, non-sport (standard) susension with 50k miles on it. It's time to firm up the ride without lowering the vehicle (if I can help it). </P>


What OEM shocks would you recommend (have used). Bilstein's web sitesays "Recommended for use if shorter springs are installed" and I would prefer to retain std ride height. By the way - a thicker stabilizer bar is would be no problem... would you do front AND rear? </P>


Thanks!</P>


</P><edited><editID>DarkHelmet</editID><editDate>37998.5005555556</editDate></edited>

 

well the reason they say for use with shorter springs is because the sport suspension is lower than the standard suspension</P>


so...stock ride hieght is reletive to which type of suspension package you want to emulate</P>


Also you dont mention which springs your goin to use if you want to upgrade your suspension look to the springs first and foremost struts/shocks just control rebound and generaly stabilize the bouncing caused by springs. you sound like youd prefer the sport setup.</P>


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From what I know, Bilsteins are the best way to go. But really, if you want to firm up the ride, it's almost unavoidable to get aftermarket springs that will end up lowering the car. The springs are what you will mostly get the stiffer ride from. If you absolutely don't want the car to end up lowered, then you can buy The H&amp;R Cup Kit, which includes Bilstein struts with the H&amp;R springs (somewhat like coilovers) that are adjustable to 3 different ride height settings. If you want to spend a little more money, then you can get an H&amp;R coilover kit and ride it at any height. Even raised, if you want, lol.<IMG src=smileys/smiley12.gif border="0">