e9 front struts

rsporsche

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So here's a question that i didn't find discussed in @HB Chris' wonderful FAQ on the changes to the E9 throughout the model revisions. there are different front strut numbers for the 2800cs and the 3.0cs. I have heard that the difference occurred when the lower arms became slightly longer ... but i am not positive. i presume that the part numbers
the first 2800cs part numbers were 31311102855 / 856
the superceded 2800cs numbers are 31311110803 / 804
the 3.0cs strut numbers are 31311110805 / 806

the tension strut (item 1 on 31/2) changed at some point, but that is all i see in the orange book.
original - 31121101969
next - 31121112885
current - 31121110798 (not in orange book)

so here is the question ... anybody know the difference? as i have a 2800cs and am thinking of buying a spare set of struts in case i change to coilovers ... i am curious as to whether the 3.0cs part number might mess something up on the 2800cs.
 

HB Chris

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Scott, The change to 805/806 occurred at US VINs 2270032 and 2280010 (typo has 2220010) and continued thru 3.0CS production so whatever the minor difference was you would most likely never come across one of these very early struts. It doesn’t warrant discussion in the FAQ.
 

Rek

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With respect to this matter there may be some relevance for me. I have a 71 3.0CS which I wanted to fit with Bilsteins at the front. W&N sent the required piece but the threaded ring which secures the damper to the strut was too big. W&N sent two replacements which fit well.

I then went with coilovers but now want to change back. I have bought and reconditioned two E9 struts and tried to fit my Bilsteins but the securing ring is too small. I am told that there was a 48mm version and a 50mm. So I now need the 50mm version.

My front wheels sits very slightly towards the back within the wheel well. Could it be that the previous owner, who rebuilt the front end, also added 2800CS struts instead of the correct 3.0 CS struts?

My Vin number is 2211483
 

HB Chris

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All e9 use the 50mm gland nut, later cars like e12 use the 48mm gland nut. And yes Bilsteins require the special nut with the larger opening for the strut.
 

Rek

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So I had the wrong struts on my car when I bought it? That might account for the wheel being slightly further back. I called Bilstein and for reference, the part number is (I hope) E4-B36-816E2.
 
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