Question about Rough / Stiff ride after installing Bilstein

[New_to_RAM_trucks]

I have a 2012 RAM 1500 Laramie Crew Cab, everything is factory except the below information.

I had a mechanic install Bilstein 4600's on the front and rear of the truck at 70k miles. The mechanic showed me how the top mount was rusted to the bolt and needed a torch to actually cut it out. Anyways, they went ahead and replaced those mounts and coil overs with the KYB parts. No other aftermarket parts have been installed.

I also added Michelin Defender LTX MS2 tires in the same month.

It have driven 2k miles since the install and the ride is very rough/stiff on any road that is not a highway. Any advice on how to diagnose what the issue is or am I just overthinking this?

 

[Dean2]

First off, look at the tires. What PSI are you running the new tires at and are they E rated tires. Most door sticker inflation pressures are WAY higher than needed and make the vehicle ride like you are on basketballs.

This link has inflation pressures for all tire sizes and types. My door says 65 LBs all round, I run 40 rear and 45 front, much better ride.

https://tirepressure.com/lt275-70r18-tire-pressure

Second, did they install the correct length and valving on the shock. The 4600 is made for LOTS of different vehicles, if they used the wrong one it will affect your ride. The 4600 is generally a good fairly soft riding shock, usually much better than the stock ones. If it rides a lot stiffer, something isn't right.

 

[kurek]

Bilstein's signature jam is digressive valving, which is usually going to feel stiff on small bumps & less stiff on big bumps. Everyone's butt is calibrated differently so that's going to be good for some people and bad for other people.

 

[New_to_RAM_trucks]

First off, look at the tires. What PSI are you running the new tires at and are they E rated tires. Most door sticker inflation pressures are WAY higher than needed and make the vehicle ride like you are on basketballs.

This link has inflation pressures for all tire sizes and types. My door says 65 LBs all round, I run 40 rear and 45 front, much better ride.

https://tirepressure.com/lt275-70r18-tire-pressure

Second, did they install the correct length and valving on the shock. The 4600 is made for LOTS of different vehicles, if they used the wrong one it will affect your ride. The 4600 is generally a good fairly soft riding shock, usually much better than the stock ones. If it rides a lot stiffer, something isn't right.

All great stuff. I will report back as soon as I check on all of this.

 

[Nick@GotExhaust]

great info to start with. definitely start with checking the easy stuff
- Tire PSI
-Tire load rating
-Exactly what part number 4600's? As mentioned they will ride firmer but shouldn't be harsh.
-was an alignment done, does the sheet show it within factory spec?