B9 S4 Coilovers - Front Damper Diameter

[Probably James]

Hi all,

I have ordered a set of KW V3's for my S4 but am concerned I ordered the wrong ones.

My car is a FEB/2018 build S4 without electronic damper controls - is there a clear rule to say if my car has the 48.5mm damper or 50mm from build date/spec?

Cheers,

 

[Daggerit]

If there's the option for both to fit then what's the issue? Surely the dynamics of the car won't be affected either way if you're swapping for coilovers?

 

[Probably James]

They wont fit with the top mounts if you get the wrong ones hence the option for one or the other

 

[Daggerit]

They wont fit with the top mounts if you get the wrong ones hence the option for one or the other

Gotcha! I was thinking that the coilovers came with their own top mounts like they did on my B8.5 and Toyota GT86. Afraid I don't know though, could you measure them?

 

[Probably James]

I could but I am trying to avoid it lol I'm hoping there is a hard and fast rule that I can go with

 

[Probably James]

Well just for anyone else finding this with the same problem.... the advice from knowledgeable places says you need to measure it to be sure. Which I did and obviously I ordered the wrong ones, mine measured as 485.

I found this on ABT’s site which was the most coherent explanation of the difference and is seemingly true at least in my case;

since 11.07.2016 the vehicles without electronical damper control will be also fitted with a different strut, which has a diffenert diameter (48,5 mm instead of 50mm).
The struts can only be differentiated by measuring the struts underneath the spring.

So you could chance it on the above but the to be sure you need to get the front wheel off and measure the damper.

 

[SMI77]

Empathize with you completely about aftermarket equipment for a B9. Trust you are able to re-order without drama.
Many thanks for the information. This is what forums are all about, info on what to do vs what not to do, saving $$' & dramas.

 

[Probably James]

I've got to say I should have just ponied up the extra for an M3 but the quattro, interior and the deal on the S4 swung it. But there is an embarrassment of parts for BMW's in general. Finding a set of wheels with the fitment I wanted has been a nightmare for the S4 as well! Ended up ordering a set of BC Forged which hopefully will look good!

But agree with forums, it's a shame instagram etc seems to be killing them off as they really were the best source for info and inspiration!