Shock absorbers Bilstein or OEM Volkswagen

B4 are like oem with better control and rebound damping. B6 and B8 are the same except for length. B8 is for lowered suspension. Basically, if you going with R springs, do R B6 shocks and either shim the rear or get R variant rear springs from Europe.

B6s are probably too firm for stock springs but certainly usable if in spec for the spring length. I'd go B4 and they will be much better than stock due to better rebound damping which is the real problem with the stock ones, especially if I was keeping the stock springs.

Here’s what I’m doing about it; Spec 30 setup. H&R sport springs and Bilstein struts/shocks.

From what Ive read bilstein 51xx series are the best all arounders and cheaper than OME, but ome does slightly better in ride quality- at double or triple the price.

I put bilsteins on my 2000 Tahoe and was very impressed with the improvements.

I've got the Bilstein B8's (South Africa, from Mikem in Johannesburg) which I believe the exact same as the 4600's in the picture. I've installed them together with uprated coils in the front and progressive coils in the back: 2" lift all around. Am very very happy with them: the ride is a bit stiffer and she likes a bit more weight in the back now, but damn the ride is so much better, responsive and dynamic. Also on corrugations it gives much more control: would recommend them to anyone.

Ive got the 5100s from bilstein (the adjustable silver ones). Both the 5100 and the 4600 give a much more “responsive” ride. They are noticeably stiffer whereas in my opinion, the OEM shocks are kind of mushy and bouncy. The bilsteins absorb impacts like potholes or trail-rocks in a way that is not only more comfortable, but also makes the driver feel more in control.

This stiffness is very helpful at reducing body roll in sharp turns or sudden stops. It will also give you a more sure-footed, balanced feeling when off road. I love my bilsteins and I think they really tightened up the ride quality of the FJ.

My dad and I put 5100s on out fj and love them. Actually rides significantly better than stock.

I have the "new" GoWesty Bilstein Sport shock installed about a month ago. While they improved everything, I was still disappointed in the body roll.

I wouldn't run Bilsteins myself since they make the ride too hard to my arse.