1998 XK8 all original shocks. Car feels good, but want to change shocks regardless.

I see some online shops selling Billstein shocks.

Can someone be very specific and show me exactly what I need to purchase?
I want shocks and any relevant bushings and mounts for a complete shock replacement.

Thanks

 

At that age if you have the money do the springs also. Otherwise, do the upper mounts, lower mounts and since they are going to have to take them off some, have the upper control are bushings replaced. They are most likely ganna crumble when they remove the arms anyway. I'd also hit the front sway bar bushings and end links. At that age they are toast. My 03, all of it was shot.
I have not done my rear shocks yet so can't say much there but I would imagine the same, replace all the bushings back there

 

The "lower mounts" are included with the shocks, so you won't need those.

The Front Bilsteins don't come with Boots or bump stops, so you'll need to purchase those separately. (rockauto or even your local autoparts store might have these). As BRGJAG said, do the upper shock mounts, too (welsh ent - jagsjagsjags on ebay for best deal). The upper wishbones need to come off to remove the shocks, so now is the best time to do the upper wishbone bushings. If there is any rubber stuck to the washers, replace all 4 upper wishbone bushings...this is where squeaks will come from.

Check the ball joint boots, lower wishbone bushing play and inner tie rod looseness when the shocks/springs are out.

The rear Bilsteins come with everything you need... except the spring foam donut that isolates the upper spring cup from the upper shock mount. Check the rear brake disks for excess wear during that swap.

 

Makes perfect sense to replace anything that needs to be removed while changing shocks.
.
Thank you.

 

I've gotten great pricing and fast shipping on Bilstein shocks from FCP Euro, and on poly shock mounts from Welsh Enterprises. Shop around for the best deals....

 

Above Ungn wrote that the rubber boot is not included, that's true but I was able to easily reuse mine.

He also mentioned removing the upper wishbone for shock replacement. I think he meant to point out that the end where the bushes are will be disconnected (the bolt & spacers). I never had to disconnect the upper ball joint to replace the shocks/springs/or upper mount. You will (actually "should" ) disconnect the ball joint if you are replacing the bushes. I replaced one side without disco'ing ball joint - bad idea, not recommended.

Ungn, hope I didn't step on your toes, just wanted to add my experience. I always appreciate your assistance.
John

 

question:

Can the shocks pass the "old-school" bounce test, yet still need new shocks?

 

Unless you know the service history your car is 18 yrs old. If never changed it would be time, especially if you want a decent ride (and associated suggestions above). Do a search and you will see many have changed the suspension components that are rubber for age not miles causes them to not be in spec.
The front it fairly easy and not too expensive with after market parts, there is a sticky about non-oem parts you should review.

Lastly, sway bar bushing should be replaced as well. Find the video in the DIY area or look on youtube and search there are many that show how to perform these maint items... Enjoy your new ride.

ps, update your signature to include your Model / Year (what we call MY)
so any new posts you make people will know what car you are talking about.