Bilsteins And Recommended Replacement Of Springs

[klunkerbus]

For my 2004 Z71 Tahoe, many sites include a note on the rear shocks that says "In order to maintain standard ride height and load characteristics, Bilstein spring part #119021 should be utilized."

 

Replacement of the springs would add a lot of cost and hassle to the rear shock replacments. What would happen to the height and load characteristics if you keep the OE springs? Have others ignored this statement?

[Bish]

I have an 01 Tahoe LT with the auto load leveling shocks. Not the autoride electronically controlled ones.

 

Anyhow, I went with Bilstein HD's and it dropped the rear about an inch when driving normally. However, when towing, it dropped the back about 4 inches and I was not happy. I put the springs in and it made it significantly better. Still a little lower unloaded but way better when towing. If you ever tow, I would definitely suggest the springs. If you never tow, it may be fine for you.

 

BTW-Replacing the springs was pretty simply. Unbolt the shocks and jack up the vehicle until the old spring flop around. Mine came out really easy. IIRC they were around $50 each for the springs.