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Shock Recommendations?

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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 01:13 PM
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Shock Recommendations?

Hey Guys,

I went outside this morning to investigate an odd banging noise I started hearing yesterday when pulling in and out of driveways. I discovered the driver's side e-brake cable has rubbed through the shock boot and was likely getting caught on the top of the housing, then slipping off as the shock compressed, making the noise.

I secured the cable out of the way, but in doing so I noticed that same shock is weeping fluid, which, although I'm not too happy about that, I'm glad I finally have an excuse to replace all of them.

Any suggestions as to what to buy? The truck is basically stock suspension-wise and I use it mainly to haul my 6,500 pound camping trailer with a tongue weight of 1K+ pounds. I also like to take it off road and beat on it a little.

Something that gives a smooth ride on the street, yet can is confident under a heavy load and can handle a little offroad fun is what I'm looking for. Right now it has just some crappy Les Schwab specials on there with about 80K on them. I haven't had any issues with them, but they don't ride too well.

Thanks and Merry Christmas!
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 01:17 PM
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This is on my list too.

As well with the new oil leak I appear to have off the front of the oil cooler.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 01:45 PM
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I think Bill (Rebilld) got some bilsteins through advanced auto for around 40 a piece.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 02:32 PM
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I got bilsteins also. Can't remember the price but I got them from summit.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 02:44 PM
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Bilstein 5100 series. The best shocks out there in my opinion.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 03:10 PM
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The rancho 9000 is a very good shock too.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 06:39 PM
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Originally Posted by tshrager
I think Bill (Rebilld) got some bilsteins through advanced auto for around 40 a piece.
Close Todd LOL! It was Autozone for $60 each
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 07:08 PM
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X2 for bilstein 5100s
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 07:24 PM
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I have 5100 bilststeins and rsk....my junk rides as good as I could ever imagine any truck riding.I will never look back...I will go back with the same if I ever need.but the 5100 are rebuildable!
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 09:39 PM
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I need a set for mine bad and will be going the bilstein 5100's and rsk as well.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 10:11 PM
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I didn't get the 5100s, they are the lower end yellow ones, but they are better than the stock ones for sure.
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 10:14 PM
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No doubt there.I mainly did originally since my lift I needed longer,and they fit the bill and I liked the rebuildable aspect. They ride great imo.ill take you for a ride this summer and see what you think!
 
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Old Dec 24, 2012 | 10:21 PM
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Originally Posted by fordman67
ill take you for a ride this summer and see what you think!
You got yourself a deal there!
 
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Old Dec 25, 2012 | 09:37 AM
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From: Aloha (Portland), OR USA
Thanks for the input guys!

Based on your recommendations, I was set to order the Bilstein 5100s, but I noticed they are only for lifted trucks. My truck ride height is stock and barely clears the garage door as it is, so no lifts for me.

Would you all suggest I step down to the 4600 Series or look at the Rancho 9000s instead?

Hope everyone is enjoying their Christmas!
 
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Old Dec 25, 2012 | 10:59 AM
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I would stay bilsteins.this is my first set and I doubt I will do any different in the future.the ranchs may be ok but I have no experience personally other than a long time ago on a less than stellar rig.
Bill ,how do you like yours?
 
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