Decision on New Shock Absorbers

[Adony]

I recently purchased a 2006 F-250 to replace my previous tow vehicle. It has one factory shock that shows signs of leaking and needs to be replaced. Will replace all 4 at same time. Is it worth the extra $$ to replace them with Bilsteins 4600's or KYB's instead of lower cost Monroe Gas Magnums? Just seeking opinions or actual experience comments..

[Jim34RL]

When my stock shocks go out or at 100,000 miles which every comes first I am replacing them with Bilstein 4600 series shocks, for my Ram. These come highly recommend by other truck users on Turbo Diesel Register. com website.

[lbrjet]

Happy with my 4600's.


2010 F250 5.4L 3.73
2011 Flagstaff 831FKBSS
Equal-i-zer 4pt 12K

[Mars]

Monroe Reflex have worked well for me. Slightly softer ride than magnums when unloaded.

[thebrakeman]

I think the Reflex units are a slight upgrade for load capacity, compared to standard Monroe (Sensatrac, etc).
KYB are good quality OEM replacements, but I don't think they are intended to be an upgrade.

[jgourlie]

I have always used Bilsteins

[SaskCampers]

Originally Posted by Mars

Monroe Reflex have worked well for me. Slightly softer ride than magnums when unloaded.

Just put Monroe Reflex's on my 250 to replace the junk factory Rancho shocks. The truck rides much better, I would recommend these to anyone who is not planning on using their truck for offroading. Then whatever style shock is fine. FYI if you check on numerous forums, a number of people have difficulty getting warranty on Bilstein shocks.

[davidx2000]

I put the Monroe Load Adjusting Shock on my '03 1500 RAM in the rear, the front are straight Monroe SensaTrac, now called magnum I think.

That's the coil over shocks. Love the handling and ride when loaded, even from the home center, but empty it gets bumpy on uneven pavement, but not that it is uncomfortable, but you know it's bouncing back there.

[NMWildcat]

Originally Posted by Adony

I recently purchased a 2006 F-250 to replace my previous tow vehicle. It has one factory shock that shows signs of leaking and needs to be replaced. Will replace all 4 at same time. Is it worth the extra $$ to replace them with Bilsteins 4600's or KYB's instead of lower cost Monroe Gas Magnums? Just seeking opinions or actual experience comments..

Bilsteins are the only way to go in my mind. I've found the best prices at Learn About Bilstein Shocks - Shockwarehouse.com. I have used bilsteins on my last 4 tow vehicles and have had excellent results. My brother buys Monroes and has replaced several due to failure. Just my experience..

Spend the little bit extra to get the best

[jhoppmann]

I replaced the factory "Rancho" shocks (really are Ford shocks with a Rancho sticker) on my 2012 F250 with Bilstein 5100's. They are a firm riding shock, but definitely got rid of the chatter and bounce I had with the worn out factory shocks. I ordered them online from Shockwarehouse. Looks like the 4600 and 5100 are similarly priced there.

I had Bilstein 4600's on a 2002 Dakota, and then 5150's on a 2010 Tacoma prior to the F250. Nothing bad to say about any of them.

[mbbutler]

Bilsteins is the only way to go.

[NMWildcat]

Shockwarehouse is having a really good sale this weekend on bilstein. Mentions 10% off. Sale ends Midnight Sunday. Also offers $11 off KYB + free shipping.

Might want to check it out.

I've always found their prices the lowest and if they are having a sale... GO FOR IT