Installing shorter rear shocks on Golf

[bmwM5power]

I have a set of Bilstein rear shocks that are about 20mm shorter ( compressed and extended) , is it a bad idea to install on MK7 Golf Tdi or do i have to pair them with the shorter springs, DG for example?

 

[Cuzoe]

Since 20mm isn't very much I would think you'll I be fine. Are the shocks from a different make... GTI/R or something? And what's your goal with installing these? You might not see any difference with that change.

 

[bmwM5power]

Since 20mm isn't very much I would think you'll I be fine. Are the shocks from a different make... GTI/R or something? And what's your goal with installing these? You might not see any difference with that change.

Not really trying to achieve anything specific, my rear shocks need replacement and I just happen to have a brand new set of Audi A3 quattro rear shocks that are a bit shorter

 

[thundershorts]

It might make a difference if the compressed length was longer than original shocks, uncompressed length should make no difference.

 

[740GLE]

Rear weight of the GSW vs A3 might prove to be more of an issue than the length difference.

but if you have them free, noting to lose.

 

[JELLOWSUBMARINE]

Define problem.

Are we talking front set? Rear? Both?

A set of 2 (unmarched handling dynamics to remainig O.E.set)
A set of 4 (set to range almost 1 inch lower)

 

[nathanso]

Improperly sized shocks can top out. Happened to me on an E420 MBZ with an attempt to install Konis. Drove great but made an awful clunk very sporadically. If you opt to try the Audi shocks be mindful of the single-use stretch bolts used at top and bottom of the Mk7 GSW rear shock attachment points (2 top, 1 bottom):
P/N Quantity Price Each Description (Torque)
N10106402 2 $ 1.16 NUT. Lock. Arm. Mount. Cntl.
N10628301 2 $ 3.63 Bolt. Mount. Arm. Lateral. (70Nm + 180*)
N90648402 4 $ 2.51 Bolt. Mount. Bracket. Bar. Impact. (50Nm + 45*)