4x4 Shocks On 2wd?

[zibzer]

Hello, replacing the rear end on my 2000 silverado 2wd V6, the new rear end came from a 4x4 (2003?)and included the shocks. I dont know if its a z71 or just 4x4 but the shocks are blue. Would the 4x4 shocks be better than my normal 2wd shocks? or will it lift up the back end and look stupid? I use my truck for trailing (so i little stiffer would be nice).

[c4cruiser]

The 4x4 shock may have a different length, stiffness, and longer travel compared to a 2WD shock. There are lots of good aftermarket shocks that are specific to your truck and will provide better control and ride compared to a stock shock. The shock mounting points should be in the same location so your existing shocks should bolt up. And it may not be4 a good idea to mount a used shoick if you don't know their age or mileage compared to the existing front shocks. That could cause a handling problem

 

If your trailer is heavy and don't want an extremely stiff ride, look into airbags for the rear. You can change air pressure to suit the weight and lower the pressure when unloaded for a smoother ride.

 

When I changed shocks on my old '99 Silverado Z71, I went with the KYB MonoMax shocks. Got a good deal on them from Summit Racing. Another excellent shock for your truck would be Bilsteins. My trailer (see sig pic) weighs about 5400 loaded and I towed it with the '99. I added Air-Lift air bags to keep the truck level (also from Summit Racing). Took about 25psi in each bag with the trailer hooked up and ran about 5psi in them when empty. The shocks and airbags priovided a great ride and improved handling.

[Smitty_Chevy]

Shocks are not that hard to install so why not just try them and see if they work or not. If you don't like them all your out is the time it takes to remove them and put on another set. Good luck.

[2000DV4.8]

Hello, replacing the rear end on my 2000 silverado 2wd V6, the new rear end came from a 4x4 (2003?)and included the shocks. I dont know if its a z71 or just 4x4 but the shocks are blue. Would the 4x4 shocks be better than my normal 2wd shocks? or will it lift up the back end and look stupid? I use my truck for trailing (so i little stiffer would be nice).

 

Shocks have no affect on ride height, since they are non load-bearing. I'd pull off the shocks you currently have, and lay them next to the shocks off of the 4wd and compare size (compress both too, and compare lengths again). I'm pretty sure the 4wd shocks should be 2" longer, but I'm not positive on that.

[MikeInCtown]

If you are taking the time to do a swap, spend the few bucks and get the job done right with new shocks.