The Bilstein 5100 shock does not achieve the lift by compressing the spring any more than a stock shock. The lower spring mount is simply moved up on the shock body resulting in a higher ride height. The suspension still travels in its designed parameters. This is why the Bilstein is the preferred method over running a sprig spacer. When you move the spring perch to the highest setting which is 2.8" above stock you achieve about 2.8" of lift. It could not do this if the spring was compressing. As far as a stiff ride it may be that your factory shocks are worn and you slowly got used to the ride. I did notice a firmer ride when I installed my shocks but it definitely isn't to stiff. Also not sure if you have had the truck aligned or not but that can also cause a harsher ride. The way the shocks operate and the way they achieve their lift is explained on the Bilstein website. It's actually very informative on a different ways to level these trucks.
Well said Sir !
This information ^^^^^^^^^ is 100% exactly correct .
If anyone doesn't understand I encourage you to go to Bilstien's website , it is very informative , also check out Brandonjanson's sticky at the top of the 4th gen lifted category here for more information and the difference between spacers & Bilsteins 5100s as far as how they achieve lift and what's being compressed and loaded & what's not .
http://www.ramforum.com/showthread.php?t=70918
When I installed my bils @ + 2.8" for me I felt the ride was much better , not necessarily smoother or stiffer , I feel as if it recovers faster in leveling the front from bumps or hard turns , imo this recovery time is a much better ride due to the front end not bouncing & or swaying for several seconds after a bump , hard turn or getting into a corner aggressively.
Just my .02 , as everyone likes different things .
Definitely get an alignment once the bils are installed !
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