Possible shock replacement for $99ea.

[Otto]

I saw this on J.C. Whitney site, don't know if will fit our trucks http://www.performanceproducts4trucks.com/productpage.aspx?pid=109639&name=Bilstein+5150+Series+Shock

[Otto]

Sorry, I acturally saw it on Performance Products site, not J.C. Whitney site.

[Joe_Black]

Yeah, they were kinda promising looking when they came out but ultimately appear to be a bit lacking in the VX department. I heard through the grapevine that these were more intended for the light truck market.

A VX'ers experience: 5150's suck (http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=7619&highlight=5150)

[mbeach]

I was doing some thinking when I was under the truck this weekend.

It would be just about impossible to compress the stock (or 912) springs far enough to cause a compression failure of the shock. Even with the wheels off, I couldn't get the axle to "stuff" enough to bottom out the shock before I hit the bumpstop (I've even cut mine down a tad -possibly not a good idea).

HOWEVER, when removing the springs, I was forced to pop both shocks off of the lower mounts in order to drop the axle completely.
This means that the shocks actually limit downtravel of the rear suspension.
If the shocks are too short, they'll take the full weight of the axle upon extension. If they are too long (get this) your rear brakeline will pull out.

The truck is in need of some limiting straps for heavy offroading. Using the correct bumpstops will save the shocks under compression. The bumpstops will also keep your tires from meeting your fenders.
The limiting straps will keep the shocks from taking the full weight of the axle whenever you hang a wheel. They will also prevent that brakeline from pulling.

I like the 5100s -if the 5150s have more fluid volume (cooling ability), then I might like them too.