2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Shocks

[CBeard]

I have read alot of info on both Bilstein shocks and the Rancho RS9000X shocks. However, I still can not decide which shocks to buy. Has anyone used the Rancho RSX series shocks. They do not have the adjustment like the 9000 series. I am thinking that I do not need the adjustment. Rancho also has a special on their shocks. Buy 3 get one free. Any help with this issue is greatly appreciated.



Chris

 

[ZBerry]

I tried researching this a lot and the conclusion I came to was Bilsteins, it seems they are the better built unit that will last longer a little stiffer but not harsh. The ranchos supposedly are nice to adjust and may be smoother unloaded and adjusted properly but they will not last as long and supposedly their in cab controllers leak and suck... So last week I ordered 4 new Bilsteins on ebay for $240 shipped

 

[gwizpro]

Ranchos lasted less than 2 years with normal road driving (NO OFF ROAD). Bilstiens on for over 1 year and still like the day they were installed. Ride is much better too.

 

[RTFoster]

I had the rsx shocks on a 99 superduty I put a 2 inch leveling kit which intailed an extra set of springs. I dont know if it was the shocks or the springs but the ride was way to stiff

 

[Cummins Thunder]

I am thinking about getting some Edelbrock IAS shocks for my front end rebuild next weekend.



Comments????



CJ

 

[DBazley]

C Beard, you won't go wrong with either the adjustable Rancho's or the Bilsteins. First, it's so cool to dial your ride with the Rancho's - I tow heavy, light & run empty and I never have a ride I don't like. Heck I have 19. 5's and I can run fast down bumpy roads - not too harsh cause I change em for my conditions.



If your conditions and / or loads don't vary like that, go with the Bilstens - they are flat out the best 'non-adjust' shock anywhere. I just put a set on our '96 Ram Van - huge improvement over the stockers. I considered using Rancho 9000's on the rear, but didn't cause I never tow heavy with the van. Even if I did tow a medium load, the Bilsteins are fine.



I think the Bilsteins have more sophisiticated valving than the Ranchos, so their ride is likely better in most circumstances.



Forget that silly remote if you go Rancho - it's very simple to adjust all 4 in 30 seconds flat, manually - the cab control is trouble prone - gadgetry gone wild.



Both Rancho and Bilstein have a lifetime warranty, so keep that reciept... . take care



David B.

 

[Jim McCarty]

I had Rancho 9000's on mine. They didn't last or ride well. Took the Bilsteins off my V10 when I sold it and put them on my CTD. Much better control and the ride was about the same. Bilsteins are way better built and will last MUCH longer, in my opinion. There must be a reason most of the German performance and luxury cars use them.

 

[NoSeeUm]

Running the Rancho's for 3 years and happy with the performance. IMO, certainly a must for hauling slide in campers. They took the white out of the knuckles.



Jim