| From | Message |
LoneStarDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/15/2002
10:02:47
|
 Subject: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Shocks...we've all seen threads on this and it seems lately to focus on Bilstein vs. Rancho. So what is everyone's experience w/ aftermarket shocks?
Edlebrock, Pro Comp, KYB, Nitro Charger, Heckethorn, Superlift, Skyjacker, etc.
Rate them 1(poor) to 10(best)on different categories and give your overall opinions.
The categories are:
City driving, Highway, Trail, Off Road.
Also tell how your trucks handle on rough roads as well as smooth. Does the truck walk on bumps while turning? Do the wheels stay in contact with the ground on washboard country roads? How do they perform w/ the bed loaded vs. unloaded?
Come on guys give details. What's the best overall shock bar none?
Personally I've only used Rancho 5000 so far. Here's my $.02
City---6 (front end walked on turns w/ bumps)
Highway---8
Trail---7 (didn't handle the offset dips and bumps well)
Off Road---6 (Good when moderately rough, but poor when in the heavy stuff)
Overall---6 (Just not enough shock for multipurpose use)
|
bjlindsey
*GenIII*
 
5/15/2002
13:20:38
|  RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Good Post, LSD.....I'll also be waiting for the replies!!
01 QC 4x4 5.9L 3.92 LSD
3" Body Lift, 305/70-R16 XTerrains,
K&N clone, Clear Corners, Carbon Fiber Tails,
www.FreeGasForYou.com
|
YJ
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/15/2002
15:57:09
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Procomp 1000.
City - 0 (might as well forgo the shock and use a steel rod)
Highway - 2 (a hair better than above during high speeds)
Trail - 5 (Stiffness is great for the underside of your jeep/vehicle by keeping it away from rocks when coming down off of a boulder.)
Overall - 2.3
Procomp 3000
City - 2
Highway - 3 (a hair better than above during high speeds)
Trail - 6 (Stiffness is great for the underside of your jeep/vehicle by keeping it away from rocks when coming down off of a boulder.)
Overall - 3.7
Rancho 5000
City - 3
Highway - 4
Trail - 6
Overall - 4.3
Rancho 9000
City - 7 (Decent when set to a softer setting (2))
Highway - 7
Trail - 9 (Great when set to stiff)
Overall - 7.7 (Even better when in-cab adjustment compressor is installed)
|
4wDakota
GenIII
5/15/2002
17:16:49
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
The only ones I have experience with is Rancho RS 5000's I had on my old 2wd Ford F150. They wore out after a year.
City 5 > no real difference from a stock shock
Highway 7 > pretty good, firm
Trail 5 > slow to recover from bumps
Off Road 5 > handled bumps well bump couldn't keep up in the washboard stuff
Overall 5 > I wouldn't buy them again because after a year of mostly city driving and a very little bit of 2wd off roading they were shot and screwed my tires all up.
I do like how bilsteins feel though. I've ridden in chevy 4x4's with normal GM shocks and those with Bilsteins and the difference is incredible. But $65 is steep! Maybe I'll try Procomp 9000's
98 CC 4x4, 5.2 Auto 3.55LSD
|
RESQready
GenIII
5/15/2002
19:32:14
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
As you rate the shocks, let us know what you're putting 'em on. Finding an application for Dakotas is always the first challenge.
I discovered that Rancho 9000's don't fit my 2000 QC (anyone else??). I know why they don't fit, I just don't know why Rancho says they should.
Thanks to Ole, I've got a set of Bilsteins on order. From what he told me, they should fit my QC. As for ride quality, they couldn't be any worse than my blown stock shocks.
Keep swingin'
RESQready Dakota
|
forexfour
GenI
5/15/2002
20:15:32
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
DJ!
I did not know you were getting the Shocks. I do not remember you saying anything on Saturday. I got the Rancho's We should compare installs to see if we can figure out what the difference is.
The rancho RS 9000 are great so farI want to run the test and rate them here.
I have them set on 4 today and I will work my way down. 4 is firm that is for sure.
I would like to check out the Bilsteins when you get them.
FXF
Never late for a Tee time or wheelin with my buddies! Always ready for both!!!
|
TallQuad
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/15/2002
21:23:20
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Rancho 9000's... love 'em! You don't really adjust them much after you find the right setting, but being able to set it how I want is the best thing ever.
my .02
|
Knobbyman
*GenIII*
5/16/2002
08:18:48
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I'd just like to say .. STOP IT!! YOUR MAKING ME SPEND MORE MONEY! .. Thank You. ;-) now I have to get some Rancho 9000's
'01 Graphite QC 4x4
4.7 3.55 LSD
4.5" Customized Suspension Lift
305x70x16 GoodYear MT/R's
http://www.knobbyman.com
----Speed only breaks stuff faster----
|
LonStarDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/16/2002
09:38:32
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Good idea RESQready, I had my Rancho 5000s on my '79 CJ w/ 3 1/2 in lift. I'm still running on the POS stock shocks now on my 2000 QC Dak 4x4(no lift). Need to decide on some new ones asap. Looking for the best of both worlds; good road and off road handling/ responsiveness. I don't mind paying a little more for shocks that will improve my ride significantly. But there are quite a few more brands out there and haven't been able to get much feedback.
Forexfour & TallQuad do you guys have the in cab adjuster or do you have to manually adjust @ the shock? Also, if manual, is the adjustment knob easy to get to?
|
forexfour
GenI
5/16/2002
10:30:33
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Manual adjust. Very easy to adjust as long as you install them with the knob facing out not in!!! I guess 3 of 4 is not bad. I wen to adjust mine down this AM and Whoops!!! Right Front facing the wrong way.
FXF
Never late for a Tee time or wheelin with my buddies! Always ready for both!!!
|
99Dak5.2L4x4
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/16/2002
10:55:51
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I just had the RSX shocks installed on my 99 Dak yesterday. So far I think they are awesome. I won't know the off road capability for another week or two but they are definitly firmer than the stock heavy duty ones. Believe it or not the truck sits higher now. Of course my other stock shocks had 76k miles on them (a bit worn)
*****Rancho RSX*****
City - 7 (firm but not too firm)
Highway - 7 (didn't notice a difference from city)
Trail - (don't know yet)
Cornering - 8 (no body roll)
Trailoring - (don't know yet)
Price - $49 each from 4-Wheel Parts
Overall - 8
*** This comparision is against the stock shocks only, nothing else.
|
Halo3
GenIII
5/16/2002
11:45:00
|  RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
RESQready: Why do you say that? I've got RS9000's on my 2000 QC!!
Given their adjustability (especially with the remote kit), it is hard to grade them on different road surfaces, as you can simply adjust them to whatever "feel" you want/need from them.
Overall, I would say they are a strong 9.
City -> medium-high "pressure" for improved handling, but still maintaining some shock absorption.
Highway --> low "pressure" for that smooooooth ride...almost like an old Caddy
Trails --> low to medium-high...gives me the ability to take washboarded roads at decent speed with minimal discomfort, or "tighten" it up for the rougher stretches at slower speeds.
Full-on Off-road --> high "pressure" - helps keep my speed down & defnitely prevents the suspension from bottoming out on whatever might be under my Dak.
Semper Fi,
Halo3
'00 Lt. Driftwood 4x4 SLT DQC w/5.9L
http://home.attbi.com/~quadcab
|
YJ
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/16/2002
12:41:33
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
forexfour,
Try the fronts at 3 and the rears at 2. I think you'll like it. When you're wheelin', set the front at 5, the rear at 4.
Also, just an FYI, the in-cab adjustment is a nice addition but may not be worth it to some of you guys. It's not that bad of an install, just time consuming. If you take it slow and carefully, it will work right. Basically, there's a small air compressor you mount with a 'T' valve. Then a couple of air 'junction' points you will need to mount as well. Then a butt-load of thin, air tubes to connect to each of the shocks up to the air junctions. Finally, mounting the in-cab guages (2) and hooking up a power/ground source. The seal around the tubes into the shocks aren't that great so every few days or so, you will need to readjust your shock settings. I guess you could seal the tube into the shock with some silicone or something. Other than that, it's not too bad. Takes about 3-4 hours.
|
forexfour
GenI
5/16/2002
13:25:22
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Thanks for the info YJ!!!
I am going to try it all to see what I like for the bumpy CA roads.
FXF
Never late for a Tee time or wheelin with my buddies! Always ready for both!!!
|
RESQready
GenIII
5/16/2002
17:30:22
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Halo3, this is what's making me crazy! I know people like your self with quad cabs and Rancho 9000's.
On my QC, Ranchos fit when the truck is sitting still. With a wheel off the ground however, the upper A-arm hits the shock tube (because they're installed upside-down relative to the stock set up). For street use and moderate off road they should be OK, I just worry with a wheel in the air, there could be some damage. Anyway, my Bilsteins just shipped today so we'll see what happens with those.
Keep swingin'
RESQready Dakota
|
Halo3
GenIII
5/16/2002
17:55:29
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I had heard about the A-arm issues prior to buying my RS9000's, but after doing some investigation, I heard that there was only light contact on the outer edge of the shock. After a year, and some pretty decent off-roading, I can say that this is truth. The outer edge does rub at some point in the articulation, but aside from wearing off the paint, there isn't any actually damage to the shock or the A-arm.
Granted, this isn't ideal, but I don't think its such an issue to warrant ditching the 9000's.
Semper Fi,
Halo3
'00 Lt. Driftwood 4x4 SLT DQC w/5.9L
http://home.attbi.com/~quadcab
|
RESQready
GenIII
5/16/2002
18:15:44
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Thanks for the info! Sounds like its not as bad as I thought, and I'm glad I'm not the only one who noticed this (at least to some degree).
Keep swingin'
RESQready Dakota
|
LoneStarDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/17/2002
10:06:16
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
RESQready let us know how those Bilsteins work out for you. I've heard great things from Chevy owners about them and have been considering them for a while now.
Has anyone tried or heard anything about the Edlebrock IAS Performers or the Pro Comp Mx6?
|
TigerDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/17/2002
11:50:07
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
SkyJackers
Hwy--8
Offroad--8
City--5
Trail--8
Overall--7.5
They really seem to be standing up to whatever I throw at them. I have had NO problems with these after 1.5 years and about 30K miles. They hold down my BFG 31" tires great. I seem to feel every bump in the road and potholes on the city driving, and that drives me nuts (but they are not made to be city shocks!). I can really grip the road with these shocks and tires. But get them offroad, trail, or smooth highways and I give them a strong 8 rating.
|
RESQready
GenIII
5/17/2002
17:49:18
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I can't tell you how the Edelbrocks actually perform, but check this out... When I went in to 4wheel Parts Wholesale, I asked about the IAS shocks and they strongly recommended AGAINST them for off road use -- said they were real stiff. Anyway, they sold me on Rancho 9000's which didn't fit properly. When I took the Ranchos back for return, they tried to sell me the Edelbrocks -- said they were awesome off-road!!! Ahhhhh, I've lost all faith in 4wheel Parts customer service (for various other reasons too).
Keep swingin'
RESQready Dakota
|
Halo3
GenIII
5/17/2002
19:50:45
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I've come to find that a lot of what the 4-Wheel Parts guys say is do to things they've heard from customers. So it is pretty typical to hear one say that the Edelbrocks are too stiff, and another say that they aren't too bad.
Semper Fi,
Halo3
'00 Lt. Driftwood 4x4 SLT DQC w/5.9L
http://home.attbi.com/~quadcab
|
Patrick ODay
*GenIII*
5/18/2002
03:41:47
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I have been running Rancho 9000's for two years on a 2000 4 x 4 CC. I love them. On several off road trips I have had to get out to change the setting to accommodate the trail conditions. Adjusting the setting for wash board, rocks, gravel, etc can be helpful when you drive long distance off road. I want to get the in cab adjustment for the RS9000 before we go out again.
The paint is scuffed on the front shocks from the lower A-arm on mine as well.
A stock Dakota is great place to start
|
Halo3
GenIII
5/18/2002
08:50:11
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
heh...I've got the remote set, but cannot for the life of me figure out where the hell to mount the two gauges & three buttons that are part of that kit.
I'm looking at two alternatives right now. The first is to get a guage pod for the A-pillar, but I keep hearing conflicting information as to whether or not a dual- or triple-guage pod will fit in a 2000 Dak (must be due to A-pillar changes made to support the grab handle). The second is to say screw it, and build a custom center console....now if I could only get Intense Dak out here to give me a hand...hehe.
Semper Fi,
Halo3
'00 Lt. Driftwood 4x4 SLT DQC w/5.9L
http://home.attbi.com/~quadcab
|
Andy C
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/21/2002
10:23:03
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I had a chevy with bilsteins. they were great.
Now i'm running the Edlebrock IAS( not the performers), on my 1999 Dak CC and they are not too bad a bit stiff on the road, but i like them
|
LoneStarDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/22/2002
13:51:56
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
RESQReady Have you installed your Bilsteins yet? Just wondering how they r working out.
Anyone else out there with shock opinions? I need to make a decision fast on some new ones. Right now I'm leaning toward RS9000s.
|
forexfour
GenI
5/22/2002
15:51:09
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
I think RESQready is out until Tuesday. We are gonna hook up at Pismo Sunday I hope.
But he did tell me yesterday that the shocks would not get to him before he headed south for the weekend. He and I really wanted to do some comparision between the Rancho's I have and the Bilsteins while we were on the dunes. I Guess next time.
I just finished doing my comparison. Of course the Rancho's are great compared to the Stock shock. But that is all I can compare to. My Bud who has a '02 Quad cab has changed his mind from the Bilsteins to the Rancho RS 9000's since I have installed them.
City 7 Wish there was a happy medium between 2 & 3
Highway 8.5
Trail/ offroad 8.5
Overall 8.5
Thanks YJ for the city suggestion of 2 in front and 3 in back. That is best but still wish I could go 2.5.
Overall I am glad I went with the RS 9000's!
FXF
Never late for a Tee time or wheelin with my buddies! Always ready for both!!!
|
RESQready
GenIII
5/22/2002
19:38:14
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
All day meeting = no internet :(
You are correct sir! My shocks are coming across the country from FL and expected to arrive Thursday, 5/23. Of course I'll be well on my way out of town, so it looks like next week sometime for a test drive. I will let you know LoneStar. If you can get a hold of Ole (somewhere on the boards) he installed Bilsteins and loves 'em.
See you in Oceano FXF.
Keep swingin'
RESQready Dakota
|
ole
GenIII
5/23/2002
16:26:33
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Also Posted this info in reply to LoneStarDak at Performance Forum:
City - 9
Highway - 9
TwistyMountainRoads - 9
Offroad - 7 (used to Proflex on a WRX)
4Low Wheelin - 8
Overall - 8
OnRoad: After I got my Bilsteins, my wife said:
"wow, this truck handles great now, those
stock shocks $ucked, I just thought it
was your $hitty driving that made the
ride so rough" (around town)
"Like a sports car with a truck bed"
"Like a truck with sports car handling"
(the Pirelli Scorpions also tremendously
helped the twisty mountain road and off
road handling) . . .
Now all I need is some stiffer springs . . . Ideas ???
Anyone ???
OffRoad: I rally race (in a built Subaru WRX, Proflex Struts).
When I drive my truck off road in So-Cal (roughest
rally roads in the US), I drive my truck like a rally car . . .
well, I do slow down for the JUMPS. The Bilsteins were a
huge improvement over stock . . . they aren't Proflex (only for
cars ?) but they are great in all kinds of off road conditions,
from 4Low rock crawling, to haulin' A$$ over the DEEP dips
(waterbars) in the SoCal mountains.
All the off road and rally racers I spoke to before I bought my
shocks suggested Bilsteins. The first, still the best.
Have Fun ... Go Fast / Take Chances !
|
LoneStarDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
5/31/2002
10:39:40
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
RESQready I was wondering if you got your Bilsteins in and installed yet?
How are they working out for you?
|
RESQready
GenIII
5/31/2002
10:59:30
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
Yep.
They've been on for two days and about 20 miles so its a little hard to rate them. I hope to take 'em off-road this Saturday (even if it means an open field here in town). Stay tuned, I'll get back to you on Sunday.
Keep swingin'
RESQready Dakota
|
forexfour
GenI
5/31/2002
11:46:40
| RE: Lets put this issue to rest for a while
IP: Logged
Message:
DJ,
Want to do a quick Hollister run Sat AM to Check em out?
Poppy Hills on Sunday so can't do it.
FXF
Never late for a Tee time or wheelin with my buddies! Always ready for both!!!
|
| | P 1 Next Page>> |
