> The discussion of Bilstein shocks has held my attention 
> because I just put Bilsteins on my '90 Westy and love them, 
> see my report a couple of weeks ago. If you go to the 
> Bilstein web page and use their search engine you will get a 
> listing for the Vanagon that only shows the HD shocks.
> So I downloaded the ,pdf catalog file on the 
> Bilstein site and in that they show both a touring and HD 
> shock.  I have the HD as listed in the Van Cafe catalog,  
> purchased from them and the rears installed by them.  I 
> notice that Bus Depot only lists the part number for the 
> Bilstein Touring shocks.  Go figure.

The two versions of the Bilsteins have roughly the same 'suggested retail'
but different rides.  We have carried both at various times but some found
the HD shocks (as well as the KYB's) a bit firm for their tastes. The
Touring shocks have a bit of a softer (yet still well controlled) ride.

We also offer two other higher-end shocks that are roughly the same price
range as the Bilsteins. Personally I think both offer a bit more shock for
your money than the Bilsteins (although they are also excellent shocks). One
is a heavy-duty shock from Germany that we import ourselves from Sachs/Boge
(as they do not offer it in the U.S. market). This is not the same Boge
shock normally found in the U.S. (which is the OEM shock for the Vanagon)
but a step above; noticably beefier, with larger valving. It combines
excellent handling and a comfortable ride with high load capacity.  Another
good choice is the Koni, which carries a lifetime factory warranty. The Koni
is unique in allowing you to 'dial in' the rebound upon installation; you
can make the ride softer or firmer to suit your taste. Also, as the shock
wears in and becomes a bit mushier (which all shocks do over time), you can
readjust it to compensate. With any other shock, you're stuck with a single
setting, like it or not.  

Vanagon shocks (except Syncro):

http://busdepot.com/view.jsp?model=43&category=38

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  www.busdepot.com
  (215)  234-VWVW

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