I want to get either the bilstein or the rancho shocks for a 2003 ram 1500 2wd,i don't know which would be better,any recommendations would be great.Truck is at stock height.
Maybe evuantually putting a leveling kit on it.
Thanks Bruce

 

Ive always had good results with Rancho.. but ive never tried Bilstein.. They're both great shocks. Youll be happy with either.

 

Bruce, how exactly do you use your truck? Do you tow alot, daily driver, etc. I think the Bils are better than the Rancho 5000, but I like the Rancho 9000 over the Bils due to thier adjustability. I think the decision depends on your use and bank account.

 

Can only speak for the RS5000. They will jar your fillings out. 9000s may be better, but I'll give Bilstein's a try before going back to Rancho.

 

Bilsteins are great. Remember that the '01 Offroad and the new Power Wagon come factory with long travel bilsteins. If you have the money the RS9000s are still better but Bilsteins are MUCH nicer than the RS5000s.

 

Do the Bilstiens provide a better ride than the Ranchos? Is that what your basing your decision on?

 

I mainly use the truck for regular driving,use it for work and have it laden at times(construction),I'd like it a bit more solid on twisty roads as i find it very soft in the front.

 

I think the Bils will suite you just fine. They will be more responsive on road while being able to handle some weight every now and then. It has been my experience that the RS5000's are a little stiffer on the compression circuit than the Bils. Not much, but noticable if they are driven back to back. I like the adjustability of the RS9000's though, but just too much for me. When I get some extra jingle I'm gonna spring for the Bils. Kinda hard to justify to my wife when there is only 3K miles on the truck.

 

I went ahead and put the bilsteins in,very easy to change out the four shocks,changed the truck completly,got rid of the sway and just feels more solid,ride quality is
superb all round,get those stock shocks out and throw them over a hedge as they are total junk.Thanks for the tip[s chaps.

 

What are some good websites to find some good shocks??
my ram has 31k on it with stock shocks I believe and I hate it.
Suspension upsets big time over sudden bumps in the road. Need something new.