I have a 2011 ST 4x4 and was wondering if anyone knows what the difference is between the base suspension and that of the TRX or Bighorn. Every Dakota I see other than the ST trim line seems to sit higher than mine. I know I can go the spacer/block route for a small gain, but am looking for other options.

Thanks!

 

The suspension is the same, it probably looks lower due to the 245/70/16 tires compared to the 265/70/16 tires (or 17s / 18s) on the other models.

 

Even though they are interchangeable, Dodge did change shocks/struts and spring rates on 08+ models to improve ride and handling.

The only difference I've ever noticed is when I park near an 05-07 model. Those seem to sit a little lower overall.

 

I do have 245/75/16s on now which helped a little (less than .5 inch difference from the 265/70s). In my looking I have read in several different sources that the Longhorn is supposed to ride an inch higher than the ST, though the only different part numbers I have seen are with the shocks/struts where the TRX has the Rancho 5000s.

 

Not sure where you're reading that info, but it is not correct. Ranchos never came stock on any Dakota.

Big Horn / Lone Star
The Dakota Big Horn — known in Texas as Lone Star — (Extended and Crew Cab models) features all the standard equipment of the ST, but adds P265/65R17 BSW on-/off-road tires, accent-color grille, Black headlamp bezels, 3.92 axle ratio, remote keyless entry, speed control, power windows, locks, and mirrors, rear cargo lamp, floor mats, Crate ’n Go® underseat storage system (on Crew Cab), and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels.

TRX4
Available only on Dakota 4x4 models. TRX4 shares the same grille, headlamp and fascia as the new Big Horn, but adds black bodyside molding and black fender flares. Standard part time shift-on-the-fly transfer case, 4x4 Skid Plate Group (which includes front suspension, transfer case, and fuel tank skid plates), antispin rear differential, rugged P265/70R16 outlined white letter trail tires on 16-inch cast aluminum wheels, front tow hooks. TRX4-specific power cloth bucket seats, standard SIRIUS Satellite digital radio, leather-wrapped steering wheel, overhead console with temperature compass and trip computer, and security alarms.