2wd shocks- KYB vs Bilstein vs.......??

[dpuckett]

OK, have come to the conclusion that my pickup needs new shocks. Nevermind that they train the grader "operators" to deepen and worsen any holes and washboards on the roads, therby killing and suspension and body stiffer than a half ton. ANyway, in my readings through the boards, I have come down to Billstein or KYB. I want something that can take some of the shock (no pun intended) out of the holes in the roads around here, both gravel and blacktop. Not ot mention roads in Ark, or the Turnpike in OK. Have any of you run both? What expereinces, good, bad, indifferent, have you had with one or the other? Have you had any luck with any other brands? Monroe and Rancho5000s are out- BTDT, no good. Cant tell you changed shocks with either one. Well, ok, the Monroes made the pickup bounce only 3 times instead of 8 after every bump in the road.



HAve a happy and safe 4th.



Daniel

 

[tugboatphil]

Daniel,



I was figuring that someone with more technical opinions would answer you, but I guess not. I replaced my old shocks (too rusted up to tell what they were) with Bilsteins last year. The ride is much better, but I am not an off roader. Not sure how they compare to other high end brands, but I was able to get these through Auto Zone.



It is not a stock item, so had to be ordered. They wanted me to drive 22 miles to pay, before they'd order them. I went online and ordered off their website. With standard shipping, I didn't have to pay for shipping. They appeared to be very quality shocks.

 

[steveinaz]

I did the kyb's and I'm not real happy with their performance on such a heavy truck. I have used them in the past on lighter vehicles and was pleased with their operation. I think I'll try the Edelbrock shock or something that is simular in design on the front at least.

 

[Paychk]

Only way to go, is the Bilstein. IMHO The weight of the Cummins over the front axle needs the highest quality shock to control it and the Bilstein is on the job, you won't regret them.

 

[bgilbert]

Don't know nothing about the high end shocks but after I replaced the monroe gas matics with monroe sensatracs my ride improved alot, I like them. Thought I saw a 91 d350 for sale in the classifieds from the show me state???

 

[dpuckett]

Yup, that's the one, but no one has shown me any money yet, and I am not pushing it real hard. So until that day, I'm going to maintain it like I am going to keep it; I just might do that.



-DP