Took my 2019 STX into a very reputable shop today to make an appointment...went in wanting to go with Bilstein 5100s, but the guy working there very much recommended to me the Rough Country adjustable shocks and struts, and it was slightly less money too.

Texted and off road enthusiast friend about this, and he was very adamant I should have gone with Bilstein, AND that I need to get the UCAs done on my truck if I’m going with shocks and struts.

Did I get taken for a ride? Haven’t paid anything, can very easily cancel the appointment/didn’t pay anything...just thought that no way they’d be “screwing” me if they’re selling me on a cheaper product, but could it be kickback?

 

I’m leaning towards the RCs as well. It’s definitely easier for the installer too since they come pre assembled with new springs. Heard lots of good reviews stating they ride close to stock. They’re only a 2 inch front lift unless you go with the 3 inch kit. The 3 inch kit does come with the UCAs though.

I wouldn’t worry about it. I plan to go with a full coil over when I finally do mine so I can install it myself without messing with spring compressors.

 

Just got a motofab 2.5 inch front/1.5 inch rear leveling kit installed today. Wrapped in 315/70r17 BFGs. Zero rub so far. Drives excellent. Surprisingly the MPGs didn’t take as much hit as I thought they would. The Venomrex wheels are super light.

 

Looks awesome. What I would like to do using the Fuel Rebels, but I know with a level and almost 35s I doubt it’ll fit in my garage. Probably stuck with 33”s for myself.

 

shop prob has better margins on the RC and install is easier=less time but same price. fwiw i went with bilstein and no regrets. i have no experience with the RC and id expect it to be similar performance in most everyday driving situations.

 

Rough Country seems to get a bad rep, but I almost always hear positive things from people who actually own RC products. I have two friends with RC products. First is a 2014 F150 with an RC 2.5" leveling kit, rides exactly like stock. Second is a 2016 F150 2wd with an RC 6" lift. I was actually very surprised how well it rode, even with cheap 35" tires and -44 wheels. Now neither of these trucks do any major off roading, so I can't speak for that.

You definitely can't go wrong with Bilstein, but if your truck is mostly a pavement pricess (as is mine), then why not save yourself a few bucks and go RC?

 

Owned the truck for to long without installing Bilstein 5100s.... ten days. 2015 Lariat with the struts set at the 1.75” setting. Plan to upsize to 295/55r20s of some flavor when these wear out. Still has 3/4” rake and will settle a little im sure.

Before


After

 

Look at what manufacturers install from the factory on off-road performance vehicles:

Fox
Bilstein

End of list.

 

I ordered a Halolifts Aluma Boss 2.0 leveling kit for my 2016 King Ranch today. I'm told by Alex they are four weeks out. With the circumstances of our current times, not too bad.

 

Motofab 1.5 front spacer.