level kit vs. height adjustable shocks
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Memberisimo
Joined: Jun 2011
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level kit vs. height adjustable shocks
Ive been looking at level kits and found the bilstein 5100 shocks would essentially do the same thing (im looking to throw on some 35's.) Is there a benefit to going this route? Ive also seen people add a 3" block in the rear when they do a front level. What is the point of trying to level if you are going lift the back up more? May sound naive but ill take the hit for all the other new guys out there. Thanks for the help!
Formerly "ZCHPRO"
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From: Chandler
https://www.f150forum.com/f7/leveling-kits-faq-87676/
in short, no there are no additional benefits of running bilsteins vs. leveling kit. unless you already need shocks
in short, no there are no additional benefits of running bilsteins vs. leveling kit. unless you already need shocks
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2010
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From: Wyoming
https://www.f150forum.com/f7/leveling-kits-faq-87676/
in short, no there are no additional benefits of running bilsteins vs. leveling kit. unless you already need shocks
in short, no there are no additional benefits of running bilsteins vs. leveling kit. unless you already need shocks
Formerly "ZCHPRO"
Joined: Jul 2010
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From: Chandler
that is highly debatable as many people say the bilsteins firm up the ride and a leveling kit is many times described as maintaining factory ride (like mine did) I would have loved to do bilsteins but didn't have the $$$. Like I said though, it's highly debatable and it won't be MUCH MUCH smoother, it's not like we're riding on the bump stops when we put leveling kits in.
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Joined: Jul 2010
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From: Yukon, Oklahoma
that is highly debatable as many people say the bilsteins firm up the ride and a leveling kit is many times described as maintaining factory ride (like mine did) I would have loved to do bilsteins but didn't have the $$$. Like I said though, it's highly debatable and it won't be MUCH MUCH smoother, it's not like we're riding on the bump stops when we put leveling kits in.
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Swamp Donkey
Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Little Rock
I went with the Rancho Quick Lift Loaded set (essentially the same tech as the 5100s) with added coils. I needed shocks and that is really the only reason I went this route. The ride is great and they were a bit cheaper than the Bilsteins. Just my .02
Member
Joined: Jun 2010
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From: Kansas
I think I need new shocks because of the rattle I have coming from the front end when I hit small bumps in the road. I've also noticed it in my brake pedal while breaking when hitting small bumps - the ABS pulses the pedal. I only have 52K on my truck, but I've been told that the factory shocks have been known to fail prematurely. I think I will go with the 2.5" Bilsteins. It seems the more reasonable and cost effective way to go.
Formerly "ZCHPRO"
Joined: Jul 2010
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From: Chandler
7 
any specific reason why you're asking
go for them then. I say if you can afford it then go for it. Bilstein 5100s also come with a lifetime guarantee that they will last the life of the vehicle, can't really go wrong with them.
any specific reason why you're askinggo for them then. I say if you can afford it then go for it. Bilstein 5100s also come with a lifetime guarantee that they will last the life of the vehicle, can't really go wrong with them.
Last edited by ProZach; Jun 14, 2011 at 02:06 PM.