I had the standard 4x4 shocks. Definitely better, but as I said above a little more jolty on some road bumps. Having said that, I'm not sure how much different the ride of the standard shocks is vs the FX4. With the std shocks, I certainly had some of wallow and swaying, but couldn't say if it was worse of better than FX4. Either way it's done and I have a nice little 1.2" lift now.
From what I have researched, the firmness of the popular rear shock options are Fox < Bilstein < Eibach. I have the Fox 2.0 rears and they are still soft, without the side to side wallow. I'd say they 'might' be a better/softer option if you are concerned. I have about 500 miles on them and have not noticed any harshness.
Spiritfish, when you install the fronts, I'd like to know if that further firms up the ride, or reduces what bounce is left, or if they just level things out keeping the same ride handling? I've been on the fence about replacing the fronts after already doing the rears (no interest in leveling).
What's your tire pressure?Update: Got the Bilsteins installed.
Took 20 minutes with part of that waiting for the air compressor to charge.
Like a few others here, it looks like I gained around a quarter inch in height in the rear.
And after much research and technical debate, and a coin toss, I installed them with the Bilstein logo downward.
Before:
After:
So the verdict?
Notable improvement on the road. "Tighter" overall feeling but not harsh at all.
So I headed to the closest dirt road that I travel frequently to really check it out, complete with some washboard.
BIG improvement. Handles it far better than before.
So all in all a very worthy upgrade.
I've decided I'm keeping the Bilsteins so I will put my OEM FX4 shocks up for sale here and now.
I'll let anyone interested have them for $10 plus shipping.
Or you can just send me $20 and I'll go ahead and put them in the trash dumpster for you, saving you tons of time and effort, 'cause I'm just a nice guy and all.
Looks like they have 4 less in stock as of today because of you and me. Double damn!
Got mine yesterday. They are going on this weekend.
The rear shock absorbers are not load bearing. This is great, because it makes them very easy to install, but also it will not change any of the load specifications of the truck. As for the ride quality while towing; you should see the same improvement as when the truck doesn't have a load. Will you feel that trailer handling is improved? I think so, but that's an opinion.
38 degrees out this morning and all 4 show 27-28psi.
