BenJeffries

I know this topic comes up often and there's lots of opinions on it. So I appreciate your patience and any insight ya'll have. I bought my 2016 Sierra Denali used in 2018. It had high mileage (83k) but was extremely clean and a seemingly good deal. I occasionally haul a large enclosed trailer. I've also hauled a bumper pull RV across country for family trips. While it hauled the trailers amazingly well I've been less than impressed with the day to day ride. It does not handle bumps or rough roads anywhere close to what I had imagined a "denali" truck would. It's borderline embarrassing. I bought it in the winter and honestly didn't notice until the Spring of 2019. Unhappy with the ride, I've considered replacing the wheels with a smaller 18 inch wheel so I can get more rubber on the sidewalls in hopes of smoothing things out. I've also considered replacing the magneride shocks with a small aftermarket lift with shocks/leveling etc. (like a leveling kit or 3.5inch lift kit?) However, today my truck was in for service (tranny work - but I won't go there ) and a guy I trust pointed out that one of my rear shocks had failed and needs replacing. He is adamant that replacing the shock may solve a lot the overall feel and ride issues that I've been complaining about and that going with an aftermarket lift/shock/tire/wheel replacement isn't the solution. My question - has anyone owned their truck for a period of time, replaced their magneride shocks with OEM factory replacements and seen an improvement worth the bill? At over $500 per shock, It's going to be expensive. Or has anyone replaced their magneride system with an aftermarket brand and seen an improvement worth while? (meaning lift kit/leveling kit/shocks/wheels etc) I'm guessing to replace all four shocks with OEM equipment will run me close to $2,500.00 with labor. And I'm guessing an aftermarket package along with new wheels will be close to the same? Any insight or help would be greatly appreciated!