Shorter is better.

Most say longer is better, i disagree. So much that i decided to shorten my strut housings. I started by removing two inches (measured 3 3/8" from the top, and 12.5" from the bottom) and then welded the two sections together.

Notice the difference between the shortened strut versus stock.Before welding the two together, i put a nice chamfer on the sections to get a solid weld that didnt protrude too much as to interfere with the coilover sleeves.

By shortening the housings, i can regain lost suspension travel as a result of lowering the car. I will be using Bilstein sport inserts intended for a VW rabbit(shorter insert). Next step is to weld on the coilover perches then paint.

A first ride(years to come) will be awarded to the person who is able to guess what I made this for. Note its about three feet long and its not for a "shark" themed bmw.