Donstar

No, it was simply a statement that this is the way that they do a level. He sounded quite authoritative and confident. I assume there must be a reason other than a cash grab. He readily gave a price to level with spacers and had the Bilsteins in stock if I wanted them as well.

PM sent. I was visiting the Houston area last week and called a local 4Wheel store to inquire about Bilstein levelling shocks. The person I spoke to said they recommend using spacers with Bilsteins set at the bottom (stock) setting. This really struck me as "overkill" but I assumed he knew what he was talking about. All I want at this time is a 1.5" or 1.85" front lift with no negative impact on my suspension. Ideally, I would like this to be an improvement in function as well as looks!

The price you have quoted for a set of four shocks is close to the price quoted for one front 5100 from my dealership!! Has anyone reading tried ordering from British Columbia? If so, what was the final cost?

This is the kit that my gm dealer sells and recommends. I don't want to go this high but the fact that my Dealer stocks them tells me that they are a safe buy! I do like the two piece aspect.

Thanks for your response. I am beginning to realize that if the only benefit to levelling shocks is improving an already great ride then the extra cost of the shocks could be put to better uses! The manner in which these shocks actually lift your vehicle is no apparent improvement over spacers.

Great pictures and great looking truck in both! I appreciate the pictures being in the same setting for an accurate comparison! I do like the looks of a 1.5 " to 2" level and will hopefully be doing the same in a short time. My dilemma is choosing between leveling spacers or levelling shocks and am wondering what factors most influenced your choice.

I appreciate all of the great information being provided. I want to check my understanding further. When comparing a 1.5" lift by Bilstein to a 1.5" spacer lift, there should be no difference in potential for extra wear on joints or damage from overextended stock components. As I understand, they both extend the coil over shock assembly creating similar new angles and changes to the stock components. Bilstein's design addresses potential issues with up and down travel and is a better quality shock absorber.

Well stated response. I have read this article several times and am aware that there is potential for bias in favour of the product being sold. However, it does make sense and if it wasn't for comments in this (and similar threads) bashing ride quality at the higher settings, it would be a no brainer for me too!

I do understand the merits of an improvement in dampening but my stock black shocks provide an excellent ride for my purposes. Bilsteins may be a viable option if I was looking to replace worn shock absorbers and level at the same time but the varying opinions on the impact of preload is still a concern.

I am trying to justify purchasing Bilstein or Pro Runner SS levelling shocks when I visit the Houston area at the end of the month (much less expensive than where I live). However, I am not finding compelling arguments that support levelling shocks over bottom of the strut spacers. Another forum member (GMC-AT) has expressed his preference for 1.5" bottom strut spacers on different threads. I would prefer a level that improved function as well as appearance but can't afford to experiment!

Your experience with "max height spacers" may not be the same as those reporting on ride differences with a 1.5" or 2" spacer. I have not read complaints about changes in ride quality from these smaller spacer kits on 2014+ gm 1500's but I have read about issues with spacer kits over 2.5". The max height on a Bilstein on our trucks is 1.85". Their advertisement claims that a reduction in down travel is reduced with their 1/2" - 3/4" longer shock. The "preload" created from raising the perch translates to the truck's body sitting higher, not a change in spring dynamics. The shock is more extended than at lower perch height but there is more shock to extend.

If the "increased angles" add firmness then this should also be expected from spacers. Most brand name spacer kits advertise no change in stock ride quality. I also question the impact of preload. I understand that the higher you raise the perch, the less the shock is compressed under the weight of the truck. However, the truck weighs the same at any of the settings. There should be no difference in spring function at the various levels. The reduction in down travel is relative to the height but some of the loss is supposedly made up for by the Bilstein's increased length.

I hope someone answers this concern. I have asked the question in different ways and in other threads. The spring isn't getting shorter or more compressed. The higher the perch, the higher the lift. The ride should be the same at all levels.

I definitely have no expertise in this area but am trying to gather as much information as available because I can't afford the trial and error method! My understanding is that there is a direct correlation between the amount you compress your springs (preload) to the reduction in suspension travel. If you use a small spacer (providing less than 2 inches of lift) your stock suspension components such as shock absorbers will not be over extended

I would use caution when changing shocks because "everyone" says oem sucks. People with good experiences don't tend to complain. This is my fifth gm pickup (following several Fords) and never had to replace a stock gm shock. I have been reading similar information where it is said the quality of shocks like Bilsteins are better, but I have also read that the use of spring compression to lift your truck reduces suspension travel. Using a bottom of strut spacer may be the most effective, easiest to install. and least expensive option.

Good luck with your lift. I've been looking at a 1.5" to 2" level and slightly larger tires. My problem is deciding on using spacers or levelling shocks!

Add the height of your lift to 0.5 of the height difference in tires. If you go from 31" tires to 33" inch tires (2" difference) the tires will add 1" of height to whatever the height of your lift.

My guess is that you will be happy with the top setting. I was thinking the second from top would be a bit of a compromise on the firmness issue and I was originally planning on a 1.5" lift. However, I sincerely doubt there would be any difference in the ride except in one's imagination. The difference in looks would be hard to notice, but just knowing that extra little bit of lift was unused would probably annoy me for a very long time!! If I go Bilsteins, I believe the top setting is the one to use. I suspect that most people use the stock or top settings on these shocks and that the in-between choices are more for marketing purposes.

Great observation regarding the trucks with Ranchos! I am also tempted to "pull the trigger" but I hope to find a good explanation as to why the higher settings cause a firmer ride. I rely on paid labour to do my work so if I have regrets I won't be able to pull them out right away!

This is the kind of response that is most helpful. Thank you. I am still curious as to the reason for increasing harshness with the height selection. The way I think is that the extra pressure on the spring is released through additional lift to the truck. The truck doesn't get heavier the higher it goes. The idea of a firmer ride doesn't bother me if it is an indication of improved suspension. I worry if it is a symptom of a suspension system under stress.

Check out: http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/topic/183489-anyone-wish-they-just-leveled-instead-of-lift/

The factory block is replaced with the 2" or 3" block. You do not stack the blocks and you do replace the u bolts. If you are using a level to lift your truck 3" you may also want to consider replacing your upper control arms. If your 3" front level is generated by more than one spacer you may consider removing one. If it is a one piece spacer then a block or adding a leaf will bring up the back.

This thread is getting away from the Bilstein shocks and doubling up on the leveling thread. I would like to know more about the Bilstein and the various settings. I have noted a few times in this thread that the highest setting brings a harsher ride. I have read elsewhere that even at the highest setting, the ride is better than stock. I plan to raise the front of my truck 1.5 to 2 inches and hope to improve ride or function in the process. I am very interested in the Bilstein or Pro Runner SS. I cannot afford to go to the higher end solutions like Fox. I would like to hear more evidence on how these levelling shocks are better than spacers. Bilstein has a nice description as to why they are better. However they are promoting their product and I'd rather hear from objective people on this forum!

Welcome to this forum. There is a lot of good reading in this particular thread and I'm sure you'll find answers to your questions and more information. What I have learned is that adding a leaf to the back is a popular way of raising the back while maintaining load carrying abilities. I have also learned that any level over 2.5 inches will be harder on front end components and make your truck appear to squat in the back. I have not read much supportive material for spacers on stock wheels. I know that you need to be knowledgeable about offsets when purchasing custom wheels for your truck. The cheap side of me suggests lowering your front level by 1/2 inch or more to regain a level look. The rich side of me suggests looking at the 4 inch lift kits for your truck!

This truck could have a level and blocks or extra leaf in the back. A quick inspection under the truck should let you know. I think this is important information for you to have prior to purchasing a used vehicle. If the previous owner did modify the suspension you want to ensure it was done properly followed with an alignment. If you don't know what to look for then have the vehicle inspected by an objective mechanic. You are paying hard earned dollars for this vehicle and a lot can happen in 7,000 miles! It could also mean you got a really great deal!