Upgrade Shock Recommendation 2009 GMC Sierra?

vetracer · April 20, 2014

Hello,

My 2009 GMC Sierra 5.3 is a great truck. It has the towing package and is 2WD. I pull a 7500 lb. Toy Hauler (fully loaded) and would like to install a better set of shocks on the truck. I do use a leveling hitch and sway control. Can someone recommend a good set of H/D front and rear shocks for my truck? Should I go with Rancho or some other brand? Thanks for your help.

P.S. My truck is a 6 speed with 3.42 posi and 20" rims

Edited April 21, 2014 by vetracer

white1500 · April 21, 2014

The title says "sock" lol.

And I would recommend bilstein 5100's. Look them up, I've heard nothing but excellent reviews on this forum.

efritz · April 21, 2014

I have Monroe reflex monotubes and love them. Very firm and controlled ride.

thrasher2010 · April 21, 2014

I am about to put Fox 2.0 Coil-overs on the front and Fox 2.0 shocks on the rear as well on my 2010 Sierra

txab · April 21, 2014

Bilstein

vetracer · April 21, 2014

Thanks for the reply's, I will take a look at all of the recommendations.

Later,

Joe

chupe442 · April 21, 2014

I have had Monroe's on a couple of my trucks. One came with them and another I put them on. The ones that I bought, I took back after about a month or so. Made my 1/2ton ride like a 3/4.. The one that came with them was not in my possession long enough to change them over.. They have been around a long time and are a respected shock but man they were firm.

Stex · April 21, 2014

The title says "sock" lol.

And I would recommend bilstein 5100's. Look them up, I've heard nothing but excellent reviews on this forum.

This! I have the Bilstein 5100s all around on my 09 SLT 4x4. Put them on the first month of new truck. Great control and not harsh. You can get the fronts that can raise the front if you wish. 4 wheel drive has them on sale form time to time.

Rear : F4-BE5-E377-HO

Front : E376-HO

vetracer · April 22, 2014

This! I have the Bilstein 5100s all around on my 09 SLT 4x4. Put them on the first month of new truck. Great control and not harsh. You can get the fronts that can raise the front if you wish. 4 wheel drive has them on sale form time to time.

Rear : F4-BE5-E377-HO

Front : E376-HO

Thanks!

vetracer · April 22, 2014

I am about to put Fox 2.0 Coil-overs on the front and Fox 2.0 shocks on the rear as well on my 2010 Sierra

Those are some bada$$ shocks. I checked them out. Very pricy but include the front coils already installed. Do you know if you have to do a re-alignment after installation? Please provide an update on how you like them after you get installed. By far the toughest looking shock I've seen. Probably overkill for my 2WD SLE, but I if they will improve towing control and balance, I may just go for it.

Thanks again,

Joe

Bassboats · April 22, 2014

I'd recommend Ready Lift's new shocks as they are valved for better rebound control than Bilsteins. I'd also suggest a helper spring upgrade with the shocks like I did on my GMC 1500 using Super Springs. No change in unladen ride quality. They are also quiet. Great for trailer towing.

Also think about changing front struts. Rancho has a good replacement for those.

thrasher2010 · April 26, 2014

Those are some bada$$ shocks. I checked them out. Very pricy but include the front coils already installed. Do you know if you have to do a re-alignment after installation? Please provide an update on how you like them after you get installed. By far the toughest looking shock I've seen. Probably overkill for my 2WD SLE, but I if they will improve towing control and balance, I may just go for it.

Thanks again,

Joe

Actually they aren't to pricy.. I got the front And the rear for 853.00 shipped to my door.. I placed my order today. So now it's just a waiting game.. They place I ordered from said it should be about 2 weeks before I get them as they are awaiting there order from fox.. I ordered from OffRoadWarehouse.. Great service and very helpful.. Once I get them and install them I will do a right up.. Edited April 26, 2014 by thrasher2010

vetracer · April 26, 2014

Actually they aren't to pricy.. I got the front And the rear for 853.00 shipped to my door.. I placed my order today. So now it's just a waiting game.. They place I ordered from said it should be about 2 weeks before I get them as they are awaiting there order from fox.. I ordered from OffRoadWarehouse.. Great service and very helpful.. Once I get them and install them I will do a right up..

Thanks for the update I really appreciate it. I'm sure those fox shocks are some of the best on the market. I decided to order the Bilstien 5100's and a new set if H/D springs and coil overs for the front. Cost for the shocks was 353 delivered. I thought that was a pretty good price. My toy hauler weighs around 6500 with four dirt bikes and gear, so I figured that should be enough of an up grade for now. Long term is a 2016 or 2017 gmc or Chevy h/d 3500 6.6 with SRW. Just need to save a few more dollars and see what rebates or incentives will be offered.

I look forward to your update on the Fox Suspention.

Thanks again,

Joe