I have a 1998 1500 with a 5" lift, 315/75/16 tires, and installed skyjacker shocks. The ride is still stiff and hits the bumps hard. Is this because of the lift suspension or this is common for this truck. Track bar and link bars replaced and added dual stabilizer shocks. What will improve the ride?

 

Springs... some of the higher zoot lifts have progressive rate springs, makes for a MUCH nicer ride. Shocks just control the bounciness....

I drive a 3/4 ton that is empty more often than not... I just got used to the rough ride. Rides like a Cadillac with about a thousand pounds in the bed.

 

its probably a combo of the lift and with the new shocks and the tires. how much pressure do you have in your tires? give some times for your new shocks to wear in a bit. not very familiar with the skyjacker shocks but i wouldn't be surprised if they are rather stiff just from the nature of the fact that they are for a 5" lift.

these trucks don't ride like Cadillacs or new truck even for that matter. others will chime in with smoother shock options. also look at your tires 40-45psi will give you a smoother ride.

p.s. welcome to DF and fill out you truck info in your signature

 

Are your shocks adjustable?
Any lift will give harsher ride
In my experiance.
My Rancho 9000 are adjustable and
Can be made bearable.

 

trucks are trucks and they ride like a truck. personally i find my truck rides pretty smooth but then again i find the bench seat fairly comfortable. don't understand why people install bucket seats? how much air do you keep in your tires? running higher air pressure will get you better gas mileage but you will feel every bump.

 

Compared to other trucks I've ridden in, RAM's are nice.

 

Im with you... Trucks arent supposed to ride like cars. There are things to soften the blow, but if your truck rides like a car, it is probably about as usefull as one. My truck is a one ton, so it rides like a tractor, but thats part of the fun, I thought...? I kind of prefer bench seats as well, though I'm swapping my 1st gen bench for a 2nd gen. I love that console.

 

What type of SJ shocks are they? If they are the hydro shocks yep they hit very hard. When I just had the 5" lift and SJ shocks it rode hard felt every bump and crack in the road. I switched over to Bilstein 5100 shocks when I installed the 7" lift and it has a much better ride. What brand of lift kit is in your truck?

 

When I bought the truck the lift was on it and no brand markings, but it looks like tuff country or pro comp. As far as the skyjackers, it wasn't the hydro. I guess I'm just spoiled after having a lifted 02 Avalanche that had a smooth ride. It got totaled in an auto accident last year. Thanks for the replies

 

Long arms will drastically improve ride quality at that height. Progressive rates will help after you do long arms. Top gun customz has some nice ones.