I have a 2500 (2WD) that I am trying to put the leveling kit on probably this weekend or next weekend. I hear two different opinions on the need for longer shocks. I have already ordered Bilstein 5100, but that is just a replacement shock for the OEM shock. I have been researching for the past couple of days to get a good answer whether this shock will be enough once I have installed the 2" coil spacer. Does this shock have more travel than the stock shocks? Thanks guys!

 

Yes, longer shocks are better with the level............................................. ....

 

2 1/2" level kit on my 4x2. Still OEM shocks. Just hauled 1,750# of floor tile in the bed and a trailer with another 4,700#. Needless to say, the nose was a bit elevated. No issues with the shocks.

I've also "gotten air" in the truck with no damage/issues.

 

I can tell you I am still using OEMs with my 2'' lift I havent not had any issues. It rides just as it always had.

 

i have a 2.5" level on my 2wd 2500, and also the bilstein shocks. when going over very large potholes sometimes the shocks will top out, but not very often. the ride quality of the bilsteins is great, and i dont want to get rid of them. ill will be replacing my spacers with a new spindle soon though, so i wont need longer shocks then.

 

ranchos shocks that are made for the 2WD 2500 are just about 2" longer than the 1500's and work perfectly for leveled 2WD 1500's

 

2 1/2" leveling kit with OEM shocks... WOW.. Do the shocks ever top out? With the 2 1/2" did the truck completely level out?

Also, what does "gotten air" mean? Haven't heard the term - sorry...

 

I have a 2500 2WD... I believe the Bilsteins are 2 inch longer than the stock 1500 shocks, but they are the same length as the stock 2500 shocks...

 

sorry dude, didnt realise you had a 2500. i dunno in that case.

 

heres what i think your best bet is. take it or leave it. put your coil spacers and bilsteins on now. and just dont drive it like a maniac over huge bumps, rocks, ruts, potholes, etc.... then save up for either some new rims (with more backspace than stock) or some wheel spacers, and a CST 3" spindle kit. then, all your angles and everything else will stay stock, your wheels will just sit 3" lower in the spindle, thus giving you 3" of lift.

oh yeah, then youll need something to raise the rear up an inch or two. either blocks or shackles.