Bilstein vs Monroe etc for Dodge 2500 diesel

[Cranky]

Awhile back I mentioned getting new shocks for my 97 2500 and Bilstein came in as the best hands down....but, they are a bit pricey for me right now and my situation probably won't improve much in the distant future. What I'm asking for is a comparison to something cheaper that will work well vs the Bilsteins 4600 heavy duty (B6) shocks or are the 4600's over kill? I've used Monroes for a lot of years and have been pretty happy with them so long as I upgraded to something a good bit more heavy duty than factory stuff. Got to admit that the factory shocks are WAY better these days than they were in the 60's and 70's!! Anyone?

 

[747mopar]

I'll be watching closely because I'm in the same scenario (just can't afford Bilsteins right now). I'm running KYB's right now and am not impressed so I'm looking for an affordable option.

 

[Cranky]

I'll be watching closely because I'm in the same scenario (just can't afford Bilsteins right now). I'm running KYB's right now and am not impressed so I'm looking for an affordable option.

Are the KYB's too soft? What part number are they?

 

[5.7 hemi]

On my 99’ Ram 2500 CTD I have Bilsteins on all corners and even the steeering stabilizer. The factory shocks aren’t even a comparison to these. I did luck out and found the fronts and steering stabilizer on C/L for $150 and I bought the rears from Summit.

Since we all want the best bang for the buck, can you tell us if it’s 2x4 or 4x4, and I’ll do some searching.

 

[Cranky]

Every time I see those kinds of numbers I think lumber lol. It's a 2x4....

 

[5.7 hemi]

Pro-Comp ES 9000, about 170 delivered by Summit Racing, also if your a Veteran, they’ll give ya discount along with Jegs.

 

[747mopar]

Are the KYB's too soft? What part number are they?

I don't feel much dampening much like when your shocks are about worn out but have no idea on #s, they were part of a kit.

 

[oliver]

I'll be watching this as well. My 02 4x4 2500 diesel is on factory 180k mi shocks. Lol

 

[Officer Higgins]

I work with a fellow who used to work for bilstein. He said they make quality stuff but the management just doesn't want to pay the workers anything. Sounds all to familiar.

 

[Cranky]

I'll be watching this as well. My 02 4x4 2500 diesel is on factory 180k mi shocks. Lol

Mine has 140k on them. Another problem is this truck is a 97 and the rubber is going away and one of the shocks doesn't even have a rubber bushing anymore.

I work with a fellow who used to work for bilstein. He said they make quality stuff but the management just doesn't want to pay the workers anything. Sounds all to familiar.

Yup.

 

[Dennis H]

Watching thread. Love the Bilsteins on the Coronet and thinking about putting them on the modern Charger. Worth every penny. Think I paid just under $100 a piece about ten years ago.