shocks and tires

[LHMissions]

After getting stuck on Saturday (and getting snatched out by a 1/2 ton Ford) - my need for new tires has climbed the necessity scale a few points.

While checking out my tires - my fronts need new shocks too. My stock Rancho RS5000's - well, with 170,000 miles on them - makes sense they are severly cupping what tread is left on my Nitto's (which is like - none. more obvious on the sides).

I've heard alot of people talking about Bilstine shocks and Rancho's - what about Skyjackers or any of the others out there.

My truck has 2.5" add-a-leafs front and rear. I've heard I can go with stock height for front but what about rear?

And the 2nd part of this thread - 285's are alot cheaper then the 305's or 315's I want - I feel like I am digressing even looking at 285's. Anyone else ever feel that way?

[fordfan30]

I love my bilstiens. Another thing to consider for ride quality is sulastic. These things are awesome! As far as tires, I am still saving and convincing my wife that I need 375/50/18 and not 265's or 285's. And yes its because I feel 285 wouldnt be what I want.

[2005F250]

Bilstein shocks are the best quality shocks for our trucks IMO. The tire size decision is up to you but if it was me I would go with the biggest tire possible.

[LHMissions]

Will stock sized Bilstiens work or do I need a shock for the 2.5 add-a-leafs?

I've "heard" I can run stock length in the front even with the 2.5 add-a-leafs. Is this true? What about the rear's?

[fordpwrstroke7]

You can run stock length shocks with that smaller lift but if you're buying new ones, you might as well do it right and get a longer shock. Even though your lift is only 2.5", I would get a shock that is 3.5-4" longer than stock. This lets you keep your shocks if you lift it a little more in the future, as so many people do.

[LHMissions]

Does Bilstine come in the longer version? When does the longer version become too long?

[Lonno]

Yes, the bilsteins come in diff lengths. I think the 5150's are the best buy for the buck. You also have your choice of valving. (hard, soft)

[DCSpecial]

Originally Posted by LHMissions

Does Bilstine come in the longer version? When does the longer version become too long?

Bilstein 5100 - 1"-3" Front Lift Application - 1999-2004 Superduty 4wd - 5100 Series (Lifted Applications) - Truck Toyz Store


If you are running a F-350 block in the rear:
Bilstein 5100 - 0"-1" Rear Lift Application - 2005-2008 Superduty 4wd - 5100 Series (Lifted Applications) - Truck Toyz Store

If you are running more lift in the rear:
Bilstein 5100 - 1"-3" Rear Lift Application - 1999-2004 Superduty 4wd - 5100 Series (Lifted Applications) - Truck Toyz Store




The 5100s are valved specifically for the for the Super Duty. Come with a lifetime warranty.

The 5150s are only offered in generic/non-specific valving. Come with a 1yr warranty.

[BryanH]

Originally Posted by 2005F250

Bilstein shocks are the best quality shocks for our trucks IMO. The tire size decision is up to you but if it was me I would go with the biggest tire possible.

I agree, Just bought 285's wish I would have gone 315's But I was in a time crunch

[LHMissions]

I'm trying hard to get the 315's. I want them - but the numbers do play a big part - numbers being cost difference.