I currently have custom valved Fox shocks and have had bilstein 5100's, 5160's, and Ranchos. If you're using your truck mainly for the camper I also suggest the Rancho 9000's, set them high and don't touch the adjustment again once you've found the best ride. The Bilsteins are a better built shock but will not match the Ranchos stiffer valving unless you get custom valved $$$$$$$$$$$ Bilsteins. Plus (I've never used it) I've heard the Rancho warranty is much easier to use if you encounter problems/leaks. I have friends that replace their Rancho steering stabilizer shock under warraty once a year just to have a new one every year.
Recently had to get a new truck/camper combo and since I came up with a Lance 1161 I replaced my stock shocks with Rancho RS9000XLs all around. Due to the weight/size of my camper I also installed a Hellwig Bigwig at the same time. While I don't believe the plastic adjustment knobs can corrode, I have found them a little hard to reach and the molded numbers nearly impossible to read (for those over 40). Some suggested turn all the way to left and count clicks to the right to increase pressure. Never heard clicks, can't see anything. Turned it all the way up and left it that way. WOW! Best ride I've ever experienced, especially considering I am floating a 20'x 11-12' 2.5+ ton payload. However, Ranchos on 9 without the payload is the worst ride I've ever experienced. Can't be bothered anymore with this manual adjustment and broke down and purchased the "MyRide" Digital Remote Control for $150. Will comment further after install.
On the adjustment reading problems, all I did was take a paint pen and highlight the numbers by touching them with the paint pen on the raised letters. It's lasted a year so far, but I do a lot of dry driving.
Thanks for all who replied. I think for ME and my current setup I will go with the Rancho's. There is a nice Rebate until June 30 on the purchase and my truck will only be used for the Lance so ride concerns empty is not a problem.
Desert1667 wrote: Thanks for all who replied. I think for ME and my current setup I will go with the Rancho's. There is a nice Rebate until June 30 on the purchase and my truck will only be used for the Lance so ride concerns empty is not a problem.
Michael
The reason you gave is exactly why a non-adjustable shock like the Bilstein will work better for your rig.
The rebate on the Rancho 9000's is nice, though.
2011 Wolf Creek 850N/Polar Cub/240w Solar/2-6v Lifeline AGMs/Morningstar Sunsaver w/RM-1 & SureSine-300 Inverter 2011 Ford F-250/6.2L/3.73/Bilsteins/Air Bags/Torklift TD w/Fastguns 2004 Jeep Wrangler/4.0L/5-spd US Navy Ret.
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