Installing 5100's -Should I level some or leave stock rake if towing??
 

Installing new Bilstein 5100's this week on my 2107 XLT SCREW, 3.5EB with max tow package. Purchasing the Bilstein's to help improve experience when towing our travel trailer and for normal driving conditions. Trailer is 23ft overall length, 6000GVW, 850# tongue weight, and am using a Blue OX WDH. Have towed the last 3 years with stock shocks and hoping Bilstein's help to reduce some more of floating feel. Have installed 10 Ply tires and Hellwig rear sway bar - both improved trucks handling when towing my trailer.

I was planning to level the truck when the 5100's are installed, but based on my research that may not be the best way to go.

Now leaning towards either leaving front at stock height or maybe using the first stop on 5100's to raise the front approx.1" . Truck unloaded has 2" rake. Having install and alignment done at a local shop so do not want to have to pay to readjust front once i have them installed!

Looking for recommendations! Thanks!

I did the 1.7 setting because:
- still leaves 1.5 inch rake
- if I want to put on 33’s
- little more front approach clearance on sand burms

Leave the stock rake while towing. Think of it like this; you adjust the height of the vehicle's stance for appearance only. The rake is there for performance. Towing with a level is like wearing high heels to hike the Appalacian Trail.

If your going to be towing, I won't level it all the way. I have the Bilsteins also, set at 1.26". I have just a little rake now, Towing truck and camper are level. But I also have SumoSprings on the rear.
Probably .75 or 1.26 would be fine for you. FWI is a pain to readjust once they're on....

I added the 5100's to the rear 2 weeks ago and kept the fronts OEM as the rake doesn't bother me. I tow a car trailer, 7800# fully loaded, tw of 1000 and believe the 5100's will compliment the air bags and E load tires for ride and towing. Just driving around town, truck appears to be more...solid / planted, especially over rough road, bumps and such. Got a 400 mile towing trip at end of month, will see how it does.

Thank for the input. Thinking now will leave front at stock height.

Based on leaving front stock height, wonder if makes sense to just install the rears for now and leave fronts as stock; only 22k miles on the truck. Shop cost will be a lot less and can always do the fronts later or return the 5100's.

Been told best to keep all 4 shocks the same brand.

Will I see that much of difference in handling with all 4 shocks 5100's?

5100s at 1.76” up and sumo springs in the rear. Towing a 8000# TT it rides damn near level.

Don’t be afraid to level it. The truck can take some tongue weight, especially with a WDH

Talked to Bilstein tech via email about doing rears only, was told doing rears and keeping fronts stock is done all the time...

You can just do the rears no problem. See how you like them. For best all around handling, then yes do all fours. You'll see some handling improvement with all four.