Do I have to put on Bilstein rears if I put the leveling shocks on the front?

 

Nope

 

No, I'm currently running the Bilstein fronts with stock rear.

 

Nope!!

 

How's the ride with that combo?

 

Just get a full set. Why would you want unmatched shocks, the rear will feel bouncy in comparison.

 

Yeah I was trying to save some money BUT I'm going to put rears on it eventually and by then they will be even more expensive so I just ordered a full set of 4 from shockwarehouse.com. With my rough road I might as well enjoy the benefits of 4 good quality shocks NOW.

 

Its bearable but like Brian said it does make the rear more bouncy. I have the rears in the garage I just need to put them on.

 

Am I correct in that after install of the 5100's...I will need an alignment??

 

Yes mainly when you get the tires on that you will be running on in the front.

 

One more question. If a guy rents a spring compressor how difficult are they to put on yourself. I have done many shock installs and other do it yourself stuff. Just want to know time and difficulty.

 

I don't know about difficulty but make sure you get a heavy duty spring compressor. The normal ones won't compress the springs enough to get the new shocks back in.

 

Thanks for that tip. I have never done a shock replacement that required a spring compressor.

I will check it out and if I have any doubts I will take it to my mechanic. But I think I can do it.

 

The 5100's just arrived via Fed Ex so I guess Saturdays project is 5100 install AND paint calipers while wheels are off.

I found this link that shows a decent install of the Bilsteins and it helped me get the orientation of the shocks and using the spring compressor. Maybe it will help others.

http://www.off-roadweb.com/tech/0904.../photo_01.html

If I am feeling jiggy...I will do some step by step pics and post in my album. Thank you all.

 

I kinda figured that.

I'll probably do all 4.

Now, my question is, will installing the Bilstein 5100 series shocks on all 4 corners level up the truck?

That's what I'm really wanting.