Pauli18c

What are the Pro's and Con's of the 5100's versus say a 2" or 2.5" leveling kit? Are the angles of the CV joints more or less the same for both?

Why aren't more people going with the Bilsteins? Is it just a cost factor?
It seems for ~$400 the Bilsteins are head over heels the way to go and leveling kits are a waste of time and money.
Then perhaps couple the Bilsteins with some Deaver springs in the rear eventually.

Excuse my ignorance, this is my first truck coming from a heavily modified 360whp 2005 Subaru STi.

Any input would be appreciated.

Stenz

The $400 price tag of the shocks is not they way to go when you can get a Hell Bent Steel leveling kit for $80... thats if youre talking money.

I have no experience with the 5100's so I cant say.

Viking1204

I have the 5100's and love them. I think I paid $344 for the set of 4 through AJUSA.com. I have the fronts installed with a 1" lift and still waiting on the rear ones which were back ordered.

I did a lot of research before buying and just did like the idea of using the spacers to sit on top of your springs, just doesn't seem like the legit way to go. Spend the extra and do it right the first time, read about a lot of complaints with the spacer kits but hardly a one using the Bilsteins.

Stenz

People who complain about the leveling kits probably buy the ****ty ebay brand. If you buy a good brand like HBS, Auto Spring, etc... you will be just fine.

There is no wrong way to go here. If you have the extra flow and you want new shocks get the 5100's. If you wanna save some money and accomplish the same thing get the leveling kit.

justjimmy

Well put. I've heard good about both methods and there are TONS of threads on this topic. If you have the time, do a search.

I'm getting the Bilsteins (on back order) but I also want the better handling that the shocks will provide.

When I get them installed, I'll post a review of my thoughts.

PawPaw

The Bilstein's are probably the best way to go but it seem's like they are alway's on backorder. I'll wait untill I need shock's and then go with the Bilstein's, untill then the leveling kit is doing fine!

Pauli18c

Says who? If they ride better than stock, than they definitely are the way to go

Chaddafd

Better than stock what? I have a 2011 platinum.......the ride can get better?????

Pauli18c

If you paid $344 and leveling kits are ~$80, thats ~$260 for a better riding truck AND a lift/level. That to me alone says go with Bilsteins the first time around.
Obviously install (which I will do myself) and alignment can cost extra for both routes.

Pauli18c

From what I understand the Bilsteins will ride smoother as they are valved different