Any recommendation to replace stock struts in a 2008 Nismo Z? I'm already looking at Bilstein B8s but I want to see other options... Thanks in advance.

 

One clarification: Z33 dampers are not struts. Struts usually refer to a shock that serve as an upper suspension locating point. Many FWD vehicles use McPherson strut suspension to save room. The 350Z/370Z are both RWD and use double wishbone locating points in the front suspension, allowing the shock or damper to serve only one purpose.

Personally, I like Koni 8241 single adjustable sport shocks on my Z. They've served me well for going on 13 years.

 

Duly noted, shocks they are...

Do you have a Nismo Z? Or are you using its springs?

On Koni's web site they exclude NISMO from these dampers... see attached picture.

 

Nope- my Z33 race car has many NISMO parts, but lacks the bodykit. Interesting that Koni specifically excludes the NISMO Z from its applications, but oh well...

 

If you like the ride quality of the Nismo, the best option for replacement would be Bilstein. I have run both Koni and Bilstein in my '03 and both offer true performance enhancements with the Bilstein having the (slightly) better ride. Honestly though, the tuned Tokicos on your car matched with the Nismo spec springs truly is a phenomenal setup but when they do go bad, well, best to get the best.

I notice you are looking at B8 'Steins... are you lowering the car? If not, then B6 "Heavy Duty" Bilsteins will do the job nicely as the B8's, while valved similarly - but not exactly the same - to the B6, are designed for use with lowering springs.

 

I wouldn't go that far saying I like the ride... it is harsh for daily driving. It's been around 9-10 years with them. I think it would be better with progressive springs up front.

The B6s are not included when selecting a Nismo Z in Bilstein web site. It seems B8s are the minimum.

Anyhow, I'm now overhauling the front axle and I'm debating between just new shocks or getting a softer ride with Eibach (Pro-Kit) springs. With the Nismo springs, the options are not that wide shock wise.

 

If you consider the Nismo's ride "harsh" then Bilsteins on stock springs won't necessarily "soften" the ride; but will make it feel more fluid and will take out the slight "jarringness" of the ride - as the Bilsteins offer very sensitive damping (down to mm's) for superior spring control - making it much more tolerable for the commute.

Coversely, Eibach Pro-Kit springs - if used with a stock shock - isn't the end all either; but together with Bilsteins, best static ride you're going to find. And the convenience factor is there too.... GET the Bilstein B12 Prokit which is this combination built/engineered for one another by the two companies.

After considering your commentary on the "relative harshness" of your stock suspension, this is absolutely your best choice. Minimal lowering (15-19mm with Bilsteins), great performance... You won't regret it.

No, I don't work for Bilstein but this is my 40th anniversary of owning my first set and honestly, there isn't a better solution for a street driven Z33, IMO.

 

Just to be clear, I do not have a Z33... It's a G35 Sedan...

I just ordered the B8s for the front... I'm going to try them with the Z33 NISMO coils. Hopefully, together with all other updates, the ride get a bit smoother.

 

It’s no surprise that there is some confusion here.

 

I have OTS Koni yellows with Nismo 350z springs (I also replaced every single suspension & subframe bushing with poly at the same time) on my 350z. What do you want to know? I have not put many miles on it but from the relatively small seat time I have with the car (installation was completed today) the ride is not jarring at all & the turn-in (as well as the front end) is very solid and the rear is very responsive. Its a very functional & effective upgrade

I have driven a stock Nismo 350z a while back & my setup is a bit more compliant even with the diff bushings & all of the suspension bushings replaced with poly. I was surprised. The OTS koni yellows are valved with less bump than the OEM Nismo 350z shocks.

If you want to maximize the effectiveness of the setup I would replace the suspension, subframe, and diff bushings as well.


**Disclosure: my impression of harsh might differ from yours**