Magnification and Identification

Understanding Bilstein Valve Ratings

Damping forces of Bilstein valvings for Off-Road are measured in Newtons at a velocity of 0.52 meters/seconds (approximately 20 inches/second). The ratings shown correspond to those measurements; rebound force is the first number, followed by compression force (rebound / compression). Conventionally, the ratings are written as one tenth the damping force in Newtons.

EXAMPLE:

Valve rating: 275 / 78

Rebound force is 2750 Newtons at 0.52 m/s

Compression force is 780 Newtons at 0.52 m/s

Higher numbers mean higher (firmer) damping forces. For example, 360/80 has more control (is firmer) that 275/78, while 170/60 has less control (is softer) than 275/78.

For valving recommendations please refer to the Valving Guide.

Determining how many shocks to put on a vehicle.

A shock absorber transforms mechanical energy (suspension movement) into kinetic energy (heat). If a shock absorber builds up too much heat, it will not function properly. Shock absorbers exposed to excessive heat will fade (soften) or fail.

If you are experiencing excessive shock failure or fading, it may be time to add another shock.

By adding another shock, you are spreading the work load from one shock to multiple shocks. Increased cooling capability will be achieved from the following factors:

Decreased Friction

Dampening causes friction. When you use a multiple shock set up, lighter valved shocks can be used which will decrease friction.

Increased Oil Capacity

The more oil, the better. Higher oil volumes take longer to heat.

Other methods to consider which will increase oil capacity are to utilize a remote reservoir or to use a larger diameter shock.

Determining Which Shocks to Use

Bilstein Off-Road Shock Absorbers are recommended for both race and non-race applications as listed below.

Special Note: Vehicle designs do vary. This is a starting guide to assist you in choosing an application.

Race Applications

The following list describes SCORE type vehicles. Class titles may vary in your series.

Class Title	2.5" 9100 Series		2" 9100 Series		7100 Series		6100 Series
Buggies	Front	Rear	Front	Rear	Front	Rear	Front	Rear
Class 1 Unlimited	2X	2X	2X
Class 10	1X	2X	2X		2X, t	3X, t
Class 12 SCORE Lite	1X	2X	2X		2X, t	3X, t
Class 5	1X	2X	2X		2X, t	3X, t
Class 1/2 1600	1X	2X	1X	2X	1X	2X
Class 9					1X	1X
Class 11					1X	1X
Trucks
Trophy Truck	2X	2X
Class 8	2X	2X
Class 7	2X	2X
Class 7S	2X	2X			2X	2X
Class 3	2X	2X			2X	2X
Stock Full	2X	2X			2X	2X
Stock Mini	1X	1X			2X	2X
Other
Pro Arena Trucks	1X	1X	1X	1X	2X	2X
Short Course	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X

Legend

1X = one shock per wheel 2X = two shocks per wheel
3X = three shocks per wheel t = vehicle equipped with torsion bars

Non-Race Applications

	2.5" 9100 Series		2" 9100 Series		7100 Series		6100 Series
Prerunner Trucks*	Front	Rear	Front	Rear	Front	Rear	Front	Rear
Full Size	1X	1X	2X	2X	2X	2X	2X	2X
Mini	1X	1X	2X	2X	2X	2X	2X	2X
*Desert Buggies/Baja Bugs**
Prerunner	1X	1X	1X	2X	1X	2X	1X	2X
Sandbuggies
Long Travel	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X
Limited Travel					1X	1X	1X	1X
Rockcrawlers
Coilover Suspension			1X	1X
Conventional			1X	1X	1X	1X	1X	1X

Legend

1X = one shock per wheel 2X = two shocks per wheel
3X = three shocks per wheel t = vehicle equipped with torsion bars

*If your Prerunner more resembles a race application, use recommendtions accordingly.