I was looking at these Bilstein leveling shocks: http://www.bilsteinus.com/leveling/index.php

Only problem is they state that they fit 06-08. However, if you go to Monroe, Rancho, KYB, etc. ( http://www.shockwarehouse.com/index....cted_year=2004 ) pretty much everyone else shows their front shocks fitting 02-06/08 Rams.

Should I risk purchasing the Bilsteins or should I pass and do the typical T-bolt crank, alignment, and longer shock route?

 

only 06-08 4wd ONLY. The 5100 style IS available for 02-05, but not with the leveling set-up as they are basic shock/struts.
02-05 have what you say..T-bolt where as 06-08 do not.
Cranking them to gain a lift will stiffen up your ride a bit just so ya know.

 

Well that is the issue, the Bilstein site isn't specifying 2wd or 4wd, they simply say "exc. mega cab". I know it will stiffen the ride but I thought opting for the 2500 shocks post level would help that out a bit. Is there a better alternative? No bags.

 

spacers would get you a smoother ride, but me personally....I would rather do a t-bar crank. I think 2500 shocks would be a bit stiffer in their damping control too so not sure if I'd go that route. Why not just get 1500 2" longer shocks?

 

I would much rather go with 1500 shocks but was not aware they had a longer version. Who makes them?

 

Almost all aftermarket manufacturers. You just need to call them so they can look at their chart and give you a part number.