Dual Shock Mount Options

[Hollywud]

I am finalizing my suspension plans. I need to replace the track bar and 1 ball joint has some play. As a result, I plan on installing new ball joints, a DT track bar, and Sky Jacker D25 coil springs.



The only part I haven't nailed down is the shock package. Here's what I know: I want to install a dual set-up up front and I prefer Bilstein's from experience and TDR posts.



What dual shock bracket options do I have? What are your likes and dislikes?



Anyone running a dual Bilstein shock and Sky Jacker D25 coil spring set-up? What shock p/n's are you using? What do you like or dislike about the ride (on-road and/or off-road)?



TIA!

 

[Rob Thomas]

I have the Skyjacker dual shock mounts on mine, I love 'em, no problems ever, simple install too. Not sure if anyone else makes a dual mount. As far as shocks go, I use the Skyjacker Hydros, the ride is nice, they seem to hold up well (they are 2 years old) have a lifetime warrenty, and they are cheap, about $32 each.



Later, Rob

 

[snowracer69]

DT also makes a dual shock mount for our trucks... saw it on their website when I was trying to figure out if the Chevy, with all the DT Pro Fab stuff on it, I saw driving around town here in Prescott was one and the same with the DT trackbar... sure enough they are. I've been too lazy to get down there and see what kind of deal I can work (maybe a group purchase on Track bars?) since I'm now a local boy. BTW, website is www.dtprofab.com



I'll get back to you guys on that. I also need a ball joint replaced.



Josh

 

[Glen Pratt]

Fabtech makes a dual shock set-up. It's really for a 1500, but could easily be used on a 2500/3500. The cool thing is their dual shock set-up puts both shocks outside the coil spring, one in front and one in back. Would look sweet with a nice set of nickel plated Bilstein 5100's. Or if you want to spend some bucks a set of Bilstein 7100's. I'm thinking of purchasing this set-up for my truck. More altitude in the spring. -Glen

 

[Hollywud]

Keep 'Em Coming

Thanks, guys!



I've looked at he Sky Jacker and DT multiple shock mounts. Right now if I had to choose between these options, it would be a toss of a coin.



I really like the sound of the Fabtech set-up. I know it sounds poser-ish but, I think that both shocks outside of the spring looks much cooler! I do have reservations about using a 1500 set-up on our big rigs... . there is a huge weight/load difference between a 1500 and a Cummins powered 2500/3500.



As far as shocks go, I'm still leaning towards Bilstein's. I know they are more $ than Sky Jacker or similar units but, I think the quality is just a bit higher. I will probably go with the 5100 series... I would love to go with the 7100 series or King shocks but, the cost vs. benefit isn't there for my use. Believe you me, I've thought about it



Keep 'em coming...



TIA!



jon

 

[Glen Pratt]

Jon, If you lay the Skyjacker 1500 dual shock brackets and the 2500 dual brackets side by side, there is no difference. The Fabtech set-up is beefier than the Skyjacker pieces as it has three upper attachment points. Look at their web-site, you'll see what I mean www.fabtechmotorsports.com . I've be researching. -Glen

 

[Hollywud]

Originally posted by Glen Pratt

Jon, If you lay the Skyjacker 1500 dual shock brackets and the 2500 dual brackets side by side, there is no difference. The Fabtech set-up is beefier than the Skyjacker pieces as it has three upper attachment points. Look at their web-site, you'll see what I mean www.fabtechmotorsports.com . I've be researching. -Glen

Glen,



Sounds like you've done some homework I just looked at Fabtech's website and like the looks of the system. I've seen a decent photo of the DT bracket but haven't been able to find good photo's of Sky Jacker's brackets (but assume they are decent quality, based on reputation).



Do 1500's and 2500's share the same shock tower design? More specifically, do you know if this is a bolt on design (1500 tower on a 2500)?

 

[Glen Pratt]

Jon, I don't know if this will work, but here goes. Look at this #ad


-Glen

 

[Hollywud]

Link Worked

Man, that looks really nice



I just fired an email to Fabtech, I'll let you know what they say.



I'm hooked

 

[Steve St.Laurent]

Rancho also has dual shock kits - http://www.gorancho.com/documents/multiple_shocks.pdf . With theirs you can even have it a triple shock if you want by leaving a shock in the stock location. It mounts the dual shocks outside the coil like the fabtech and theirs is designed for the 2500. One other thing to keep in mind is that with dual shocks you will want each shock to have lighter valving then if you had one shock. If you put two of the same shocks that you would have used one of your suspension will be a lot stiffer. This is one reason to consider an adjustable shock like the rs9000.

 

[Hollywud]

Steve,



Do you know where I could go to view some pics?... I was just on Rancho's page but didn't see any photos of the bracket installed.



Gotcha, regarding shock valving. I haven't talked to Bilstein yet but, I'm sure they can accommodate valving for dual shocks. I'm gonna stay fairly simple with my application... non-adjustable shocks (and if I did anything adjustable, it would be a rear air-ride system).



Thanks!



jon

 

[Steve St.Laurent]

I don't know if this is the Dodge application or not (probably not) but here's a pic that I found on their site: http://www.gorancho.com/products/accessories_2.stm#Multiple

 

[MCummings]

Oh lifts,, seems to be my topic of choice lately...



Sometimes, people do wierd things to trucks. .



#ad

 

[Glen Pratt]

Jon, The shock towers and spring cups are identical on both the 1500 and 2500 trucks. A popular swap for the 1500 guys is to put diesel coils and leafs in their trucks. Instant 3" lift kit, but a little stiff in the ride department. We might be putting my stock springs in my brother's '96 1500 very soon. -Glen

 

[Hollywud]

Glen,



Thanks! Please keep me posted if you decide to use Fabtech's bracket... and I'll do the same. I'm not planning on doing anything until the spring but, you never know



jon

 

[Hollywud]

Fabtech Replies

From: Armen Mosikian @ Fabtech

Hello jon,

Yes this kit fit the 2500 dodge,thanks

Problem solved, I'm using the Fabtech bracket Oo. Oo. Oo.