You have a part number on those Al-kos?  
 
> Date: Tue, 4 May 2010 13:32:38 -0700
> From: crescentbeachguitar@GMAIL.COM
> Subject: Re: Bilstein HD shock report
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> Hmm - I don't really care for the non-compliance of the KYB shocks - too
> much gas pressure but...
> 
> I did put a pair of Bilstein HDs on the front and find them much softer than
> the ~20,000 mile Alkos that I removed. I'll be re-installing the Alkos when
> I have the time as they control the suspension much better.
> 
> Jake
> 
> On Tue, May 4, 2010 at 1:05 PM, James V <chimivee@gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> > Bilstein HDs are good shocks, but were too soft for my liking on my
> > 2WD Westy. I expected them to be significantly stiffer than stock or
> > Bilstein TC, but noticed little difference. I actually prefer the firm
> > ride of low-buck KYBs for this application. They are definitely more
> > harsh over bumps and don't control rebound as well on big dips. But
> > that is a very small portion of my driving, and I like the firmer
> > characteristics of the KYBs 95% of the time - at least for on-road
> > driving. But most would disagree.
> >
> > James V
> > 86 Syncro Westy, etc.
> >
> 
> 
> 
> --
> Jake
> 
> 1984 Vanagon GL 1.9 WBX 'The Grey Van'
> 1986 Westy Weekender/2.5 SOHC Suby 'Dixie'
> 
> Crescent Beach, BC
> 
> www.thebassspa.com
> www.crescentbeachguitar.com
> http://subyjake.googlepages.com/mydixiedarlin%27