I have a set of new Bilstien B8 shocks that I was thinking I could use for a coilover setup. When I got to looking at the shocks, I noticed that the ends of the shafts that go through the tophat assembly is quite different on the B8 vs. the older spec miata type shocks.



To use them it appears that a longer spacer is needed and a conical seat for the shaft.

Does anyone have any experience using these in a coilover?

Thanks in advance.

 

The default aftermarket B8s for Miatas are Sports for the NB -- you might want to try posting P/Ns.

 

Here you go




I guess I'm wondering how to capture the top hat for control of the shock in compression. Obviously rebound will pull against the top nut. Compression would have to rely on spacers or something to push agaist the beveled part of the shaft? Since the shaft is shorter, wouldn't there be even less travel than the old shock?

When I got these B8's they said that they were for lowered applications. I really can't see how that would work. The main problem that we have is bottoming out on the bumpstops. These would appear to make it even worse.

 

Those bilsteins have 1" shorter droop travel - other than that they're the same as the b6's. (I assume they say their for "lowered applications" due to not letting the spring unseat at full droop because of the shorter shaft).

They're also designed for NB style tophats/bushings - hence the difference in length of the end of the shafts after the shoulder (threaded part). You need some NB tophats or extended tophats...and I'd swap the b8's for b6's if you can still.

 

Also, all the info you could want on using these with coilover sleeves can be found here:

https://www.miataturbo.net/suspensio...-thread-78451/

and here:

Budget Bilstein Ballers - ClubRoadster.net