Owners manual

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**7100 Series** - Please Read Before Installation
Congratulations on your purchase. To assure the safe and proper use of your new 7100 Series shock
absorbers please read the following important information carefully, and keep it for future reference.
Nitrogen Pressure
7100 Series are delivered with 250 psi (17 bar). The main purpose of the nitrogen pressure is to
stabilize the oil and prevent cavitation. The operating range for a 7100 Series is between 180-250 psi
(12.5 – 17 bar). Users can adjust the nitrogen pressure to accommodate the application on an
individual basis. Nitrogen can be serviced through a fill valve located on the shock body (schrader
shock) or at the end of the reservoir (reservoir shock). Tip: If the suspension begins to feel soft, you
may need to increase nitrogen pressure.
A Bilstein Gas Filling Tool (part#193000) is available. Please contact your Bilstein dealer for more
details. Nitrogen bottles may be purchased or rented at most welding supply dealers
Installation
Bilstein 7100 Series are designed for custom applications. This product is not intended for use on any
OEM applications, and may not directly fit in standard mounting locations. The user is responsible
for determining the suitability of this product.
Incorrect installation can lead to the failure of this product. Below are a few tips:
This shock cannot be used as a compression limiter. Failure of the shock and/or mounts will result.
The shock may be used as a droop limiter on low-speed applications such as trail riding and rock
crawling. However, a limit strap is strongly recommended on any high-speed application where
suspension oscillations to “full droop” are a common occurrence.
The shock is supplied with (4) heim spacers, which must be placed on both sides of the spherical
bearing (top and bottom). The purpose of these spacers is to allow the spherical bearing to articulate
as the shock cycles through its travel. It is very important that the heim spacers do not contact the end
loop during operation. As well, it is very important that the end loops do not contact any part of the
mount brackets, etc., during operation. Any interference with the free movement of the bearings may
result in a bent or broken piston rod.
It is very important to cycle the suspension to full “bump” and full “droop” before operating the vehicle.
Failure can occur if the shock body comes in contact with the chassis, tire and wheel, or suspension
of
the vehicle.
Shock Repair
The 7100 Series are fully owner-rebuildable. Any component can be purchased through your Bilstein
dealer or direct from Bilstein. A rebuild sheet is available upon request. For a complete parts listing
please refer to catalog #PP2458. To request this catalog please contact Bilstein at [phone].
Revalving
Internal adjustments can be made to the damping forces in rebound and compression, independently.
For more information please contact the Bilstein Off-Road Department at [phone].
Nickel Plated Finish
7100 Series feature an electroless nickel finish protected with a clear coat. Wash with mild soap and
water only. Do not use chemical cleaners or abrasives on the finish. The finish is not covered under
any Bilstein warranty.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR OR REBUILD ANY SHOCK UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO DO SO.
SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR WARRANTY INFORMATION.