Shocks

[RonS]

I have 2002 Chev 2500HD 4x4 crew cab w/75K and most likely in need of new shocks. I dont do any off road stuff and tow 3280RL. Will I be happy with Rancho RS 5000 shocks at $150 ?? Or should I be looking at a different brand of shocks i.e Bilstein at $250 ??

[bsmeaton]

Hi Ron,

I just got a new F350 that happened to have the off road package with Rancho shocks. Stiff enough for me (I can tell you if a dime is heads or tails just by running over it). They actually are a little too stiff for my comfort. I couldn't imagine what the gas shocks would do when not towing.


2003 2955RL - 5.5KW Gen - great for the lake!
New '06 F350 Stroker towmoter in July - love the new trans shift and integrated brake controller.
'95 SeaRay 200BR named Dam-It - occassional tow buddy

I ain't as good as I once was - but I'm as good once as I always was - Toby Keith

Brad & Dory

[CountryGuy]

We love our Bilsteins, worth EVERY penny! Made HUGE difference solo and towing!







Al & Carol Stevens Tipton, Mi.
Retired - Traveling with 4 Yorkies
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[sreigle]

Ron, those are both good brands. My 2005 F250 came with the Ranchos and at 62k miles they are still performing as new, as far as I can tell. Mine are not noticeably stiff when solo, like Brad's. In fact, many people have commented how nicely this F250 rides when solo (if I remember to drop the rear tires a bit). I do not know which model Rancho is on mine. They have the Rancho name but are oem to Ford so have a Ford number on them.

In my opinion, either Rancho or Bilstein would be a great choice.

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Fulltiming since 3/21/03
'03 3295RK
'05 Ford F250 SD Lariat CC SB 6.0L PSD/TS FX4 4x4

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[rickfox]

Good Afternoon All,

I recently installed the Bilsteins - it was more difficult than I thought it would be - you have to put a fair amount of compression force on those babies to get them in. I now no longer need to use my air bags to run level when towing the Monty. I have noticed quite an improvement in the ride.

Brad and Dory, I noticed from your photo that you at least sometimes tow a boat behind your Monty.

How many miles have you towed?
Any problems?
Tell me about the hitch used?

I don't mean to hijack this thread and would be interested in talking with you via. other email types.

PS, I am designing a customer trailer that I will be using to tow my MC.

Rick & Wanda
2003 2500HD Crew Cab
Duramax with Allison Trans.
Firestone Airbags
Glide-Ride Pinbox - It's Great!
2006 3400RL - We Love The Trailer!

Montana Customer Service?

[Montana_6094]

do you need the bilstein shocks all around or just on the back?

[rickfox]

Kathy,

I was told, and somewhat believe, that if the dampening characteristics are different (new vs. currently installed) then all should be replaced to provide the same dampening for both axles. Leaving the currently installed shocks on the front is somewhat like wearing two different shoes - but in this case a front to back mismatch vs. the side to side example with the shoes. Also, when its time to replace the back shocks, its often time to replace the front.

Rick & Wanda
2003 2500HD Crew Cab
Duramax with Allison Trans.
Firestone Airbags
Glide-Ride Pinbox - It's Great!
2006 3400RL - We Love The Trailer!

Montana Customer Service?

[sheiba1]

Thanks for reminding me, I just ordered new Bilstein shocks from Genos Garage.

[gitrdun]

Billstein 5100's.

[ARJ]

Bilsteins all around. Your OEM shocks probably are only good for 25 to 30k miles anyway. I still have to use the airbags because I have a TT. I don't remember how much I paid but I think it was about $400 for all 4.

2002 GMC 2500HD Ext cab 4x4, D/A, Bilstiens, Hellwig rear sway bar, air lift w/in cab control
2007 Mountaineer 31RLD TT
Zodiac 10' w/4hp mercury

[RonS]

Thanks to all, ordered complete set of Bilsteins ($260 shipped), they should arrive today. Will attempt to put them on this weekend, was told should only be a two hour job, so with luck should get them on in a couple days. I will let you know how the install went and if I notice any difference.

[RonS]

Got all 4 Bilstein Shocks on, went better than anticipated, only took 1.5 Hrs. After looking at stock shocks after removal, I sure am glad I replaced them, looks like I should have done this long before 75K miles. I do feel an improvement in the ride, have not yet hooked to the Big Sky, but I'm sure it will improve the handling of the TV.