1.2 TDI 3L New suspension.

A2_1.2TDI_RO

New Member
Hello!
It is time to change the suspension on our 15 years old A2 1.2TDI 3L. Because the original dampers are no longer supplied I want to go with an aftermarket solution (dampers, springs, bushes, dust covers, etc..). I want slightly bigger ground clearance, if it is possible, and better handling. With the original suspension now, it does not give enough confidence to run higher speed in curves, being also quite low and wobbly.
Can you give me some part codes that will fit?
Thanks!
 
The 3l has some specialities. Did you already ask what the guys over in Germany at a2-freun.de use? I suspect Bilstein and possibly Eibach may work - I would check.
 
Mine had treatment/overhaul from previous owner.
Springs, shocks etc. Rear brakes replaced with Polo ones. Since i have not had any reason to touch them and not complaining, my knowledge is limited. Rear shocks are at least Bilstein B4 (BNE-A612, 19-106120).

Edit: Went and checked, fronts shocks are VNE-4476 Bilstein B4. Don't know about springs, but probably done as https://a2-freun.de/forum/forums/topic/35646-12-tdi-bilstein-b4-fahrwerk/ suggests or something...
 
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There are limited options for the 1.2Tdi. Bilstein Germany list rear shocks and front and rear B3 springs. I would use shocks that have already been used on a 1.2Tdi; if you don't, be skeptical if the shocks are claimed to be suitable for other A2s. Autodoc list front and rear options. Another possible option is to get the originals rebuilt.

RAB
 
TRW JGM306T front shock absorbers (20mm piston rod diameter) replaces
8Z0413031AB
8Z0413031S

TRW JGM349T front shock absorbers (22mm piston rod diameter) replaces
8Z0413031AC
8Z0413031P

TRW JGT267T rear shock absorbers replaces
8Z0513025E
8Z0513025J

Bilstein B4 22-105813 front shock absorber replaces
8Z0413031AB
8Z0413031AD
8Z0413031S

Bilstein B4 22-196309 front shock absorber replaces
8Z0413031AC
8Z0413031P

Bilstein 19-106120 rear shock absorber replaces
8Z0513025E
8Z0513025J

OEM part numbers for the front shock absorbers
6E0413031F
8Z0413031AB
8Z0413031AC
8Z0413031AD
8Z0413031P
8Z0413031S

86E0413031Fgas shock absorber

(8)8Z0413031S
Cancelled since 01.01.2003
shock absorbers
F >> 8Z-1-054 000
front
Model data: PR-VV0:1GA
Period: 0400 - 0601
88Z0413031ABshock absorbers
Model data: PR-1GA,
G07
(8)8Z0413031ADshock absorbers
Model data: PR-G22

88Z0413031Pshock absorbers
F >> 8Z-1-057 600

Model data: PR-1GL
Period: 0400 - 0501
(8)8Z0413031ACshock absorbers
F 8Z-1-057 601>>

Model data: PR-G08
Period: 0601 - 0805

OEM part numbers for the rear shock absorbers
8Z0513025E
8Z0513025J
8Z0513025M
8Z0513025N

78Z0513025Jgas shock absorber
Model data: PR-0N1+1GA,
G07
(7)8Z0513025Ngas shock absorber
Model data: PR-0N9+1GF,
G03
(7)8Z0513025Egas shock absorber
Model data: PR-0N1+1GL+
G08
(7)8Z0513025Mgas shock absorber
F >> 8Z-3-030 000

Model data: PR-0N1+G22
Period: 0502 - 1202
(7)8Z0513025Ngas shock absorber
F 8Z-3-030 001>>

Model data: PR-0N1+G22
Period: 0103 - 0805
 
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Hello!
It is time to change the suspension on our 15 years old A2 1.2TDI 3L. Because the original dampers are no longer supplied I want to go with an aftermarket solution (dampers, springs, bushes, dust covers, etc..). I want slightly bigger ground clearance, if it is possible, and better handling. With the original suspension now, it does not give enough confidence to run higher speed in curves, being also quite low and wobbly.
Can you give me some part codes that will fit?
Thanks!
 
Hello!
It is time to change the suspension on our 15 years old A2 1.2TDI 3L. Because the original dampers are no longer supplied I want to go with an aftermarket solution (dampers, springs, bushes, dust covers, etc..). I want slightly bigger ground clearance, if it is possible, and better handling. With the original suspension now, it does not give enough confidence to run higher speed in curves, being also quite low and wobbly.
Can you give me some part codes that will fit?
Thanks!
[QUOTE="Erlingtheelder, post: 437165, member: Audi A2 1.2 Tdi

Suspension - Components for Overhaul

NB: This is the English translation of the current German A2 Website Information specific to the 1.2Tdi. I’ve now sourced the parts I need to refresh my 1.2 TDi’s 256k miles travelled front and rear suspension systems, bar a few items. Bilstein front and rear shock absorbers and springs listed on German site, plus all the spring seats, shocker dust sleeves and bump stops etc. Also changing all wheel bearings, discs, drums, pads and shoes plus disc dust shields. While at it, lower front wishbones, hub ‘knuckkles’ etc. Yet to source front drop links and ARB bushes/plastic sleeves. Good luck with your work, RAB is an excellent source of advice.

This thread is about converting the chassis on the 1.2 TDI to Bilstein B4.
Further information and the "history of development" can be found in this thread: Alternative chassis for 1.2. Thanks to all the pioneers who tried out the shock absorber-spring combination (marked in blue in the list below) and classified it as suitable for everyday use.
Below is a summary of all parts required for the conversion:

Parts used front axle (part number)
2x shock absorbers Bilstein B4 (Bilstein: 22-044761 / formerly VNE-4476)
2x coil springs (VAG: 171 411 105 G 952 Bilstein: 36-131105)
2x suspension strut bearings (VAG: 6N0 412 331 E)
2x axial deep groove ball bearings (VAG: 6N0 412 249 C)
2x bellows (VAG: 6N0 413 175 A)
2x stop buffers (VAG: 6Q0 412 301 A)
2x holder for speed sensor cable (VAG: 6N0 972 327 E) => Optional, if the holder from the old damper is not re-used
6x hexagon collar screw M8x25 (VAG: N 019 530 8) Torque: 25Nm
4x hexagon collar screw M12x1.5x70 (VAG: N 104 694 01)
4x hexagon collar nut (self-locking) M14x1.5 (VAG: N 101 064 02) Torque: 70Nm + 90 °


Parts used rear axle (part number)
2x shock absorbers Bilstein B4 (Bilstein: BNE-A612)
2x stop buffers (VAG: 6Q0 512 131 B)
2x dust protection tube VAG: 1J0 513 425 A) => Optional, old part can normally be reused
2x spring washers (VAG: 8Z0 511 149 A)
2x hexagon screw M10x75 (VAG: N 905 173 04)
2x hexagon collar nut (self-locking) M10 (VAG: N 102 861 10) Torque: 55Nm
4x hexagon screw M10x35 (VAG: N 906 484 02) Torque: 30Nm + 90 °
Wheel alignment
In contrast to the other A2 engine variants, a toe AND camber setting is mandatory for the 1.2 TDI after the chassis has been replaced as part of an axle measurement.

Decrease
Due to the special shock absorber-spring combination (replacement of the original springs), the conversion on the front axle is subject to acceptance (individual acceptance). This acceptance was successfully carried out on my ball and one more ball. If you have a specific interest, I will be happy to put you in contact with the test center (=> PN).

Driving behavior
The difference in driving behavior is clearly noticeable.
Above all, punching through potholes and the tendency to roll sideways are a thing of the past. All in all, I would classify the chassis as typically bilstein taut but not hard.
Vehicle height
The vehicle height remains almost identical to the standard chassis (in this case approx. 5mm higher immediately after installation, which will settle a bit over time). See also:
Erling the elder
[/QUOTE]
 
Parts used front axle (part number)
2x shock absorbers Bilstein B4 (Bilstein: 22-044761 / formerly VNE-4476)
2x coil springs (VAG: 171 411 105 G 952 Bilstein: 36-131105)

An interesting choice of parts.

Bilstein 22-044761 is a Polo MK3 front shock absorber.

171411105G is a Golf MK1 front spring.


Spring DesignCoil spring with constant wire diameter
Fitting PositionFront Axle
Wire Diameter11,25 mm
Length354 mm
Outer diameter138 mm
Weight2,00 kg


1616382839537.png




As you can see from the above photo, this front coil spring has 6.5 coil turns which compares to 5.5 coil turns on the 1.4petrol/1.4TDI/1.6FSI front springs, and 5 coil turns on the 1.2TDI front springs.

The 6.5 coil turns should give a much softer ride.

The extra coil turn should help the springs last longer, as each coil turn won't be so stressed.

The extra coil turn does come at a price, and that is weight. It's 2kg in weight, which is quite a bit more than normal A2 front springs.

Here's a photo of the 1.2TDI front spring. Notice that it only has 5 coil turns.


Spring DesignCoil spring with constant wire diameter
Fitting PositionFront Axle
Wire Diameter11,00 mm
Length293 mm
Outer diameter136 mm
Weight1,30 kg



1616383479707.png
 
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I have to thank everyone once again. :D
Do you have a code for a rear spring that matches well with the front polo mk3's ones?
I am looking for a bigger ground clearance in the first place. Previously, we had an A2 1.4TDI with panoramic springs and was quite lifted :). I am sure I can't obtain this with the 1.2TDI but at least to be a bit higher than standard. With mk1 cabrio/polo mk3 springs in the front and panoramic a2 springs in the back will it look funny (front facing down- back up ) ?
 
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An interesting choice of parts.

Bilstein 22-044761 is a Polo MK3 front shock absorber.

171411105G is a Golf MK1 front spring.
*none* of the a2-freun.de selections are theoretical. They are all either in use or tested. No "this might fit". It's "This does fit and it's close enough to original that the TÜV doesn't have a problem with it". Which is also something that others of us have to deal with: the paperwork. These selections should go through anywhere in Europe.
If I've read it correctly, that thread is from Phoenix, who has put hundreds of thousands of kms on his 1.2 and his other A2s (last time I looked, I think he had three).
 
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Do you have a code for a rear spring that matches well with the front polo mk3's ones?
I am looking for a bigger ground clearance in the first place. Previously, we had an A2 1.4TDI with panoramic springs and was quite lifted :). I am sure I can't obtain this with the 1.2TDI but at least to be a bit higher than standard. With mk1 cabrio/polo mk3 springs in the front and panoramic a2 springs in the back will it look funny (front facing down- back up ) ?
Try OEM part number 8Z0511115AS, which is the normal rear spring for a 1.4petrol/1.4TDI/1.6FSI A2 without OSS. Don't use the OSS rear spring because that will be too hard for the much lighter 1.2TDI.

KYB is often the cheapest out of the following three brands, with Bilstein tending to be the most expensive.

8Z0511115AS
KYB RH5514
SACHS 996648
BILSTEIN 36-147717

8Z0511115AS 1.4petrol/1.4TDI/1.6FSI Rear Spring without OSS
Spring DesignCoil spring with constant wire diameter
Fitting PositionRear Axle
Wire Diameter9,75 mm
Length338 mm
Outer diameter107 mm
Weight1,30 kg

1616402997360.png


8Z0511115AL Standard 1.2TDI Rear Spring
Spring DesignCoil spring with constant wire diameter
Fitting PositionRear Axle
Wire Diameter9,25 mm
Length328 mm
Outer diameter99 mm
Weight1,00 kg

1616403131118.png
 
I have to thank everyone once again. :D
Do you have a code for a rear spring that matches well with the front polo mk3's ones?
I am looking for a bigger ground clearance in the first place. Previously, we had an A2 1.4TDI with panoramic springs and was quite lifted :). I am sure I can't obtain this with the 1.2TDI but at least to be a bit higher than standard. With mk1 cabrio/polo mk3 springs in the front and panoramic a2 springs in the back will it look funny (front facing down- back up ) ?
Ref rear springs I ordered for my 1.2 TDi, these are
Bilstein B3 Original Equipment Rear Spring
SKU: BLS36-147694
As I indicated, this information came from the German A2 Club Website and is known to work with this particular model from extensive trials of alternative parts by its members - Phoenix in particular.
Note well: Standard Audi A2 1.2TDi front springs are the wrong length for the replacement Bilstein front shock absorbers.

This Bilstein suspension set up retains the original 1.2TDi car ride height and comfortable ride and yet gives improved car handling and road holding over the original, but now unobtainable shock absorber/springs combinations. It has been proven to work as an effective solution for the 1.2 TDi. Other spring and shock absorber combinations have been discussed, some tried and many reported for the 1.2TDi on the German A2 site. I passed on the only known solution that works in real life and satisfies TUV requirements.
I sourced the Bilstein shock absorber and spring set from local UK supplier DemonTweeks about 6 weeks ago - total £300 delivered, incl local taxes.
You may be able to get these locally at a lower cost.

I wish you well in keeping your 1.2 TDi running.

Erling #5N007503
 
To append information others may find useful...

My shocks were fine so I only needed new springs (I decided to do all four), plus I replaced the stop buffers at the same time and dust covers.

The following springs matched almost perfectly and maintained ride height and rebound rate.

Front: SACH 998 405
D 10.90mm (original 11.00mm)
L 293mm (original 293mm)
OD 136mm (original 136mm)
VAICO 31331124449, VAICO 6Q0412301A
(V10-1580)

REAR: SACH 996 941
D 9.15mm (original 9.25mm)
L 328mm (original 328mm)
OD 99mm (original 99mm)
VAICO V10-8229
 
TRW JGM306T front shock absorbers (20mm piston rod diameter) replaces
8Z0413031AB
8Z0413031S

TRW JGM349T front shock absorbers (22mm piston rod diameter) replaces
8Z0413031AC
8Z0413031P

TRW JGT267T rear shock absorbers replaces
8Z0513025E
8Z0513025J

Bilstein B4 22-105813 front shock absorber replaces
8Z0413031AB
8Z0413031AD
8Z0413031S

Bilstein B4 22-196309 front shock absorber replaces
8Z0413031AC
8Z0413031P

Bilstein 19-106120 rear shock absorber replaces
8Z0513025E
8Z0513025J

OEM part numbers for the front shock absorbers
6E0413031F
8Z0413031AB
8Z0413031AC
8Z0413031AD
8Z0413031P
8Z0413031S

86E0413031Fgas shock absorber

(8)8Z0413031S
Cancelled since 01.01.2003
shock absorbers
F >> 8Z-1-054 000
front
Model data: PR-VV0:1GA
Period: 0400 - 0601
88Z0413031ABshock absorbers
Model data: PR-1GA,
G07
(8)8Z0413031ADshock absorbers
Model data: PR-G22

88Z0413031Pshock absorbers
F >> 8Z-1-057 600

Model data: PR-1GL
Period: 0400 - 0501
(8)8Z0413031ACshock absorbers
F 8Z-1-057 601>>

Model data: PR-G08
Period: 0601 - 0805

OEM part numbers for the rear shock absorbers
8Z0513025E
8Z0513025J
8Z0513025M
8Z0513025N

78Z0513025Jgas shock absorber
Model data: PR-0N1+1GA,
G07
(7)8Z0513025Ngas shock absorber
Model data: PR-0N9+1GF,
G03
(7)8Z0513025Egas shock absorber
Model data: PR-0N1+1GL+
G08
(7)8Z0513025Mgas shock absorber
F >> 8Z-3-030 000

Model data: PR-0N1+G22
Period: 0502 - 1202
(7)8Z0513025Ngas shock absorber
F 8Z-3-030 001>>

Model data: PR-0N1+G22
Period: 0103 - 0805
So my a2 1.2 did not pass the MOT. due to the state of the shocks.
Does this OEM parts fit the 3L? TRW JGM306T for the front and the TRW JGT267T for the rear ones?
May be time for a car upgrade...
Thanks
 
So my a2 1.2 did not pass the MOT. due to the state of the shocks.
Does this OEM parts fit the 3L? TRW JGM306T for the front and the TRW JGT267T for the rear ones?
May be time for a car upgrade...
Thanks

Here's some information on the rear springs and rear shock absorbers for the A2 1.2TDI.

Aftermarket rear springs for the A2 TDI are still available. For example, the below Sachs 996941 rear springs.

Sachs 996941 rear springs (1.2TDI) (matches 8Z0511115AL)

My preferred brand of aftermarket shock absorbers is Bilstein.

The A2 1.2TDI uses the same aftermarket rear shock absorbers as the heavier A2 models.

Bilstein B4 19-106120 rear shock absorbers (all models) (sold to replace 8Z0513025E 8Z0513025J 8Z0513025K)

1694457835825.png


Lower underlay 8Z0511149A
38Z0511149AUnderlay2

Stop buffer 6Q0512131B
46Q0512131BStop bufferH=123MM2PR-1GA,1GF,
1GL,G07,G03,
G08

Upper underlay 1J0512149B
61J0512149BUnderlayupper2PR-0YD,0YE,
0YF,0YG,0YH,
0YJ+1GA,1GL,
G03,G22

Protective pipe 1J0513425A
121J0513425Aprotective pipe2

Audi A2 parts catalogue
 
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