Rancho z71 Shocks Vs. Standard Black Shocks?

[2024Denali]

I have an opportunity to get a take off set of Ranchos for pretty cheap. I know Billstein 5100s are the gold standard here, but how are the Ranchos compared to the standard black shocks? Any better?

[OnTheReel]

In my opinion, the Z71 truck I drove for a week rode far worse than the base suspension. Very bouncy and uncontrolled. I wouldn’t waste the time on the Ranchos.

[BlancoSilverado]

i have the original "black" shocks on the front and upgraded the rear to 5100. Made a huge difference with the rear. i will only switch out the front to 5100 but money is a little tight. probably at 90kmiles i will swap both. 

[SilveradoRST]

Does it matter if they are the Z71 Ranchos vs the Trail Boss/AT4 Ranchos?  

[2024Denali]

Can’t imagine the Ranchos are worse than the standard black ones. I have a dealership offering new take offs installed for $150.

[OnTheReel]

Bilsteins cost me less than $100 each on Summit. Not that huge of a difference in price assuming you can turn a few screws. Don’t even need a jack to do it. 30 minute job.

33 minutes ago, SilveradoRST said:

Does it matter if they are the Z71 Ranchos vs the Trail Boss/AT4 Ranchos?  

The Trail Boss ones are longer and also monotube. Far better than the normal Z71 shocks.

Edited April 5, 2021 by OnTheReel

[Thejet07]

I have an rst and my stepfather has a Sierra with the black shocks. His drive much better. I changed my rears to bilsteins. Eventually, I’ll do the fronts as well. I hate my ranchos, they are wayyy to bouncy


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[Dunn]

ive had both and much prefer base black ac delcos over the twin tube ranchos i have currently in x31.....would be a waste imo to throw them on intentionally

[2024Denali]

11 minutes ago, Dunn said:

ive had both and much prefer base black ac delcos over the twin tube ranchos i have currently in x31.....would be a waste imo to throw them on intentionally

Thanks! Good to know! One of these days I’ll throw some money at some billsteins