Removing Dust Boot from Bilsteins

[vektro69]

I was replacing my Monroe Gasmatics with Bilstein shocks. Problem is the shocks are extremely close to my exhaust. The Monroe’s were all metal, but the Bilsteins have a plastic dust cover that it is right next to the exhaust.
Can I just cut off the plastic cover or do I need to get different shocks?

 

[MoparLeo]

The exhaust temps are much lower at the rear of the car and the material used by Bilstein may be just fine. Just like silicone is what is used on spark plug boots next to the headers. A lot hotter there than at the back of the car. Bilstein should list the temp rating somewhere, maybe their website. I can't imagine that they would not know about the exhaust pipes proximity to the shock absorber.

 

[vektro69]

Thanks! I’ll check with Bilstein on Monday. Not open on weekends. I’ll check the web and see what I can find

 

[JR_Charger]

Did you ever get an answer on this?

 

[vektro69]

Did you ever get an answer on this?

No. But i was able to move it out of the way. So it’s all good now

 

[1STMP]

There are potential problems with shocks
and boots if the shock body is mounted
downwards. Dirt and moisture tend to
collect at the top of the shock body
with rubber/silicon boots installed,
leading to rust and pitting of the rod.
The boots are installed to protect the
rods from rock and road debris when
the shock body is mounted upwards.
With coilovers (no boots), the shock body
is typically mounted downwards and are
also mounted in locations that are more
exposed to road debris, but the springs
help to deflect the rocks. I'd venture your
longevity of the shocks would be greater
without the boots. Open to debate I'm sure.