By Mike J. (Mudd) on Monday, August 13, 2001 - 05:14 am: Edit

Ok I was conntemplating replacing my bilsteins with adjustable ranchos after my 2"rt MD lift. Im so happy with the lift but thought adjustabilty might be nice for load carrying and high speeds. Well... Now I have to do something, I broke the mounting lower bolt off my bilstein mount yesterday on the trail. I just pulled the shock off and kept going, I was almost home. Now I'm driving today with no shock and want to hear stories of what will be better. I mostly drive on road but love testing my abilitys and performance on the trail.

By Perrone Ford on Monday, August 13, 2001 - 06:00 am: Edit

The Bilstein is a MUCH higher quality shock construction wise. The Rancho is a nice compromise shock and is typically used to get longer lengths for lifts withoout spending $125 for the Bisltein off-road shocks with special valving.

For my money here is the way it goes:

If money is not a problem, get the Bilstein off-road shocks in the proper valving for your application.

If you use your truck mainly on the road, the Bisteins are your best bet, but the ranchos are a good second choice

If you will be making a steady diet of off-roading, I'd get the OMEs.

Best of luck to you,

-P

By RVR OVR (Tom) on Monday, August 13, 2001 - 06:10 am: Edit

Hooo boy this was a big argument before. Do some searching. Perrone wrapped it up pretty good, though.

Of course, one of the big arguements against the Rancho's is that they break -- as you found out, anything can break...

Tom

By Steve (Oz93discov8) on Tuesday, August 14, 2001 - 02:35 am: Edit

I've got Bilsteins and they're a bit "bouncy" off road. One theory is that the high gas pressure within does not absorb the bumps too well but instead causes the body to be pushed upwards when you hit a bump - that is typical of double acting high gas pressure shockers - I suppose?? On road they're great and cornering is "enhanced" but off-road I'm not convinced that they are the best option - you should see my gear (and dog) flying around in the back when I'm off-roading!!. I've had Koni adjustables recommended. They are not gas pressurised and do not restrict the up stroke when you hit a bump but are supposed to control rebound well.

By Mike J. (Mudd) on Tuesday, August 14, 2001 - 04:12 am: Edit

thanks guys ... Ahhhh I stuck with the Bilstiens for now.