1996 4.0 Convertible with the sport pack suspension. (Bilstein shocks and heavier anti-roll bar )
Measuring from the ground to the top of the wheel arch I get 26.5" on both rears and right front. The left front measured 27.5"
I removed the springs and they are the same height at rest. Can anything other than the springs cause that difference in height?

Also, I removed the shock bolts and could barely budge (compress) them.
I replaced the KYB shocks on my '93 coupe with Boge's and had no problem compressing either shock.
Is it normal for the Bilsteins to be that hard to compress?

I'll probably be ordering a set of stock Boge's and springs (I prefer the "non-sport" ride.)
So if anyone's interested in the Bilsteins and springs let me know.

 

petemohr,

The correct ride height spec on late XJS is measured from the bottom of the subframes to the road rather than at the wheelarch measurement. However, if you've got the same wheelarch distance on a front and rear wheel then there's an issue as the rear wheelarch lips are lower than those at the front.

Although not specifically intended to set the height, the shocks will make a small difference, so a discrepancy can be caused by worn shocks.

You'll no doubt have read all the threads on owners struggling to get correct ride height with many aftermarket springs and shocks. It seems the only way is to buy genuine JAguar springs and shocks or else go with adjustable platform height rear shocks such as Gaz (that's what I did).

Good luck with your choice.

Paul

 

Something isnt rigth with the Bilsteins. I've noticed over the years they fail stiff. I think the valve jams up. I like KYB or Boge for a driver. KYB have a higher pressure and will raise your ride height.

 

I have used the KYBs on a few of my XJS cars. A good overall shock. Ride is not stiff in my opinion. ^ Bilsteins are also pricy.

 

I agree. I put 6 new Boge's on my '93 coupe and am very happy with the ride. Think I'll do the same with the '96. I just have to find someone strong enough to compress the Bilstein's enough to get them out!

 

i am reading this with a lot of interest because I will be changing the shocks /struts soon. It seems like the facelift springs are not available. i though Bilsteins where the best for our cars though?

 

Check here: https://www.welshent.com/Steering-Suspension-C4720.aspx

 

I had 1 front Bilstein fail, and the lower wishbone bushes these caused the LHS to sit lower than the right. Although it was most likely the lower bushes that caused the LHS to sag.