[redfred18t]

it was nice out today, so I decided to install my new coilovers (kw v2 - thanks Alan @ **********s!). I was only able to do the front since I started fairly late, killed an hour looking for my strut spreader (from my mk4 jetta which ended up working perfectly), had to rent spring compressors, and it still gets dark and cold fairly early.

Anyways, I had bilstein PSS9's on the car. Never really had an issue (they were on the car when I bought it 2.5 yrs / 45k mi ago) until this winter. When the temperature was below freezing, the right front coilover would literally seize up. It felt as if my strut was replaced with a solid metal bar. I might have made a thread on here about it. It's pretty clear to me that the bilstein coilover is completely SHOT. I was pulling out the strut assembly out of the spindle, holding it by the top hat, and this is what happened:




The piston assembly along with the top hat separated from the strut unbelievably easy. The other side came out fine and had no issues turning itself into a 2 piece coilover. I couldn't believe that this happened though.

My car actually rides normal now with the kw coilovers up front. I still need to adjust the ride height/dampening settings and also do something about rust prevention on the threads of the coilovers. Not sure if you guys have any ideas for that.

[vasillalov]

You must have had a crack in the coilover and water got in and mixed with the oil. Once it got cold, the water will freeze and make it impossible for the fluid to flow through the valves of the shock, thus giving you the seized up feeling you are describing.

I'd send this to Bilstein and ask for replacement! Those should have lifetime warranty.

[redfred18t]

I called them a few weeks ago, let them know my issue, and they said they've never heard of that and can't do anything about it since I didn't purchase the coilovers. I can get it rebuilt for $150 per corner + materials though

[BrianMN]

Bologna they haven't heard of this before...

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=515026

[redfred18t]

I know, I saw that thread. I was referring to the issue of the coilover seizing/freezing up.

[BrianMN]

Originally Posted by redfred18t

I know, I saw that thread. I was referring to the issue of the coilover seizing/freezing up.

They have heard of that before as well....as mine was also seized before coming apart.

[redfred18t]

Weird, maybe the guy I was talking to had no idea. Did they do anything for you/

[BrianMN]

Originally Posted by redfred18t

Weird, maybe the guy I was talking to had no idea. Did they do anything for you/

I got lazy and never sent it in.. If I recall they said they would fix the situation for free.

[redfred18t]

I might call them up again then - if they will rebuilt/replace it for free, could be worth the time to deal with them and send it.

[onebadmofo]

How's the ride on PSS9? Thinking about getting that as well.