So what do you think the difference in the ride would be compared to stock with Bilstein 5100s for a 2WD truck that's going to stay on the street 99% of the time? I'd like to have a smoother ride without being spongy, especially around town. We don't have many pot holes here, but Hotlanta tends to melt the asphalt and create waves and bumps I'd like to soak up better especially. And I tow maybe 4,000 lbs of trailer and gear at the most (camper/utility trailer) so a stiffer shock should help here over the stock ones...

I'm thinking road tires (someday) will be the best for improving ride and feel, but shocks wouldn't hurt the checkbook as much. Whaddya think?

 

What are you comparing them to?

 

I think they'd be a great effort for your situation. Up here in Northern Ontario, we get the same effect in the pavement, except ours is from moisture getting underneath the roads and freezing and creating insane bumps and waves. My Bilsteins handle them great! Keeps the truck firm and tight, most of all in control. I don't find the Bilsteins spongy at all. I have yet to tow with them on, but I can imagine it being much better than it used to be.

 

Much appreciated! Another item for the mod list!

 

Good question...

 

I had a feeling that was the answer. If you want something that is leaps and bounds better than those DLs, try your luck with some Kings.

 

Ha
Na the DLs are good, not the best obviously but decent. I have alot other mods in mind before Im gunna consider replacing my shocks. But when I get to that point Kings will definately be my choice.

 

my personal experience....never buy rancho's. the ones i purchased with my 6in lift had made in mexico written all over them and they turned spongy and blew the seals within 20,000 miles. my 5100's firmed everything up and even with stiff lift springs would control rebound unbelievably

 

from what I understand, DL's are basically the low end of the high end coilovers.

 

What's the difference between the 2" level Bilsteins and the regular Bilsteins? What part of the shock levels the truck, and if the shock wears out, does your truck remain level?
Just wondering. I'm considering new shocks, although my truck with 55,000 km more than likely isn't in need of new shocks yet. I'm still satisfied with the ride as well. Perhaps I'd notice a differnce with new shocks however.

 

There are different spots for a snap ring to go onto the body of the shock. The snap ring dictates where the spring will sit on the body. This creates the lift.

 

Thanks, gotcha. So the Bilsteins with the snap rings are optional? I personally don't care to level the truck because I like how it sits level when it's loaded with the boat and gear. Do Bilsteins last longer than stock shocks?

 

I'd spend the money on the Bilstein 5100s. They are going to ride better than the "standard" ones and you'll have the option of not using any lift. Not to mention that if you ever change your mind, you'll have that option. Yes, Bilsteins will last a lot longer than the stock shocks.

 

I tried on a pair of kings up front on wednesday and it was a HUGE difference over the bilstiens. I then rode in a dodge with fox shocks and it was pretty nice too. In september im goin with kings front and rear and total chaos uc's

 

Awesome. How were you able to try them on before you bought? I wish I could of done that !!!