Why Are My Bilstein 5100 Assemblies Set on the First Circlip?Updated 3 months ago

Some customers notice that their Bilstein 5100 shock assemblies arrive set on the first (lowest) circlip and assume the kit was assembled incorrectly or that it will not provide the expected lift. This is a common and understandable concern, but rest assured—this configuration is intentional and correct.

This article explains why your assembly is built this way and how the lift height is actually achieved.

Why the Circlip Is on the First Groove

Bilstein does not manufacture their own coil springs specifically for the 5100 shock series. For this reason, Mudify assembles Bilstein 5100 shocks using Old Man Emu (OME) coil springs when applicable.

When OME springs are used:

• The lift height is determined by the spring’s part number and spring rate

• The circlip position does NOT control the lift height

To ensure proper performance, correct spring seating, and long-term reliability, these assemblies are intentionally built on the first (lowest) circlip setting.

How Lift Height Is Achieved

With OME coil springs:

• Lift comes from the spring design itself

• Not from preloading the shock via higher circlip positions

Using a higher circlip with these springs could:

• Over-preload the coil

• Affect ride quality

• Push the suspension outside of its intended operating range

That’s why Mudify assembles these kits according to manufacturer best practices.

Is My Lift Height Correct? Yes

Your suspension has been assembled to achieve the exact lift height you selected based on the correct spring part number. The first circlip position is the proper and recommended setting for this configuration.

Key Takeaway

If your Bilstein 5100 assembly is:

• Using OME coil springs

• Set on the first circlip

This is normal, correct, and intentional.

Your kit has been professionally assembled to perform as designed.