Guys,

What is your recommendation for replacement shocks. My 06 F150 has had a 2 1/2" AS leveling kit and a 1.5" add a leaf for 4 years now. I have always felt that I didn't have much travel left in the factory shocks. When stepping over bumps and potholes, it alway very rough and stiff. Now there is noise when stepping over bumps and during sharp turning. Not sure what that is. Any recommendations on improving the ride? Everyone loves the look of the truck, so I don't want to change that. Thanks in advance.

 

Take off the leveling kit and go with some 5100 Bilstein's.

 

PawPaw,

Which model of the 5100 are you referring? Can I get 2 to 2.5 inch lift? I have 33" tires on 20s.

 

Funtuff you will still be able to fit your current set up with the Bilstein 5100's. Great shocks too.

 

funtuff,

The 5100's are a great option for leveling your truck, and they don't look half bad either

Fronts

Rears

 

Thanks Guys. I will order them soon. Now I have to find a shop that will put them on for me. Is it ok to do the fronts first then come back a little later and do the rear?

 

I heard that the 2.5in level on the bilsteins doesnt sit as high as it would with a normal 2.5in level?

 

Yes your right, the Bilsteins only go up to a 2in setting. You will lose some height, but it still looks better then the factory rake.

As far as the ride quality, don't expect your truck with Bilsteins 5100 to ride soft and smooth, for these shocks are harsh. Trucks handles much better and all that, but the ride is not smooth. But hey, its a truck, not supposed to be soft and smooth. I still reccommend them to anybody, but alot of people expect these shocks to feel like new factory shocks, plus you will lose alittle height but not much.

 

Thanks for all the feedback. I started checking into some suspension shops for installation. How does about $350 for labor and alignment sound?

 

rough contry shocks is what i have on my f150 and they are great. they have made my truck ride so much better.

 

I might go with the Rancho QuickLift system. I just want to make sure I don't get screwed on the labor. Can someone give me some price ranges for labor on installation? Thanks.

 

I would do alot of searching around. I had my bilsteins installed for less then $150 if I remember correctly.

 

I think 350 sounds pretty high, basic shock installation + alignment down in southern california runs about 150-200...ive heard good things about the rancho quick lift...then get some 35's!

 

You can either remove the leveling kit and add the shocks set to the 2" setting or leave the leveling kit installed and add the shocks at the stock setting.

 

I was quoted 164 to replace all 4, I asked the guy if that included an alignment, and he said that I shouldnt need an alignment after replacing them.