Make sure to install the washer UNDER the oem top parts on the strut assembly, just the nut goes on top, the washer keeps the piston rod from going through the top plate.
You appear CORRECT, These are the instructions as per the Website: 3. Install the spring seat adapter (supplied) such that the groove inside the spring seat adapter fits over the circlip on the shock body. See Figure 2. Install the spring seat adapter in the direction shown only. The circlip must fit completely in the groove inside spring seat adapter. Improper installation will cause permanent damage to the shock! 4. Reinstall OEM spring seat and OEM bumpstop in the direction shown only. 5. Install new washer (supplied) on piston rod as shown. 6. Reinstall the coil spring, all original upper mount parts and upper spring hat in their original locations (reverse order of disassembly). Install new lock nut (supplied) and tighten to 45 N•m (34 lb•ft). Do not re-use original lock nut. Good Catch!
Just a word of advice, it only requires two spring clamps to compress the strut springs, and if you use for force of the spring to retain vertical pressure on the strut nut it makes removing the strut nut much quicker then fumbling with box wrenches
great video, thanks for posting! I plan to do a similar modification to my 2012 ram 1500 and wanted to make sure that the reviews were positive for the parts. The installation video was also a huge help
Thanks for doing this video guys. It helped me on my install big time. For anyone wanting to do this who lives in an area where they use salt on the roads, be prepared to cut the old struts out and replace the bushings that the lower shock bolt goes through. It's doable with a ball joint press.
Very true, we are in the North-East, heavy salt. This was one of the reasons Chris wanted to do this the first summer he owned the truck. So, if you have a truck you will be doing suspension work on that have been through a few hard winters, it will need some extra effort to get all the parts apart.
@@ric0000 i honestly live in Alberta, Canada...and after 2 yrs of heavy snow,salt and cold I've taken the parts out with no problem at all...my only issue was trying to figure out how to take the spring off... I didn't have your video as guide tho !
I was just going to make a comment about that and then brake lines I was cringing the whole time watching this but you helped me and finished it off good job good eye
You guys make it look so easy....i couldn't even take the tie rod out or the lower bolt from the strut those things are stuck...i took it to some mechanics and they wont do it bcuz they said that little ring wont hold the pressure from the springs...so i have to wait till someone can actually put them on....good job guys
The washer that is supplied does NOT go right under the nut.......it goes on the rod BEFORE the top spring seat is mounted. Check Bilstiens directions closely. WILL CAUSE DAMAGE IF DONE WRONG!
When removing the nut from the old strut if space is tight, I find it much easier to us a large set of vise grips to hold the strut shaft through the coils of the spring to prevent it from rotating.Using this method you are able to use your ratchet or air tools saving time and effort. Great Video!
The biggest risk in that process is scuffing and scaring the strut shaft. Once the shaft is gouged, scratched or chipped it cannot make a complete seal into the strut allowing dirt to get in, and oil to get out. If you do not intend on using the old struts, buy all means vice grip that thing and have at it. But for anyone looking to re-install new or re-use old, do not grip the strut shaft.
I think he meant disassembling but I could be wrong. I use the same method of vice grips thru the coil on the shaft for disassembling. That is usually the harder part of the job especially when you live in the salt belt like I do
I like your video but you have a major flaw. I followed the video for the front leveling. I installed my front Bilsteins the same way you did, with the washer under the nut. Then I test drove and heard a clunking noise on every bump and crack in the road. I researched and downloaded the proper full length instructions from Bilstein. They said to install the bumper then the washer and then put the shock into the spring assembly and lastly install the nut. The way it was installed allowed the shock stem to freely move up and down through the top plate without dampening at all. I had to do this job twice. If you haven't corrected yours then you may want to before damage occurs. Please correct this major flaw so others don't make the same mistake.
Fuck ! I installed the first one like that and started to rain...this morning i was gonna do the second but I'm way to lazy to take apart everything again and redo it..will it make such a big difference a freaking washer ?
A Varn I’m looking hard at this setup.....and by the way, awesome contribution so others do not damage something they just invested in....how is the truck after alignment on the highway? Any negative aspects? Also do the UCA’s stay within a reasonable geometry? Appreciated
@@stephenwilliams1364 The bilsteins have worked out great for me. The ride is real close to the same as stock with a little better response. Highway driving is basically the same. When I installed the bilsteins I replaced the uca's with some that are made for up to a 3 inch lift. I changed those due to the horror stories that I've read about where the stock ucas are stessed too much and the ball joint pops out. It added $300 bucks to the job but I have the peace of mind.
Thanks What brand UCAs did u invest in? Also can I still use my factory rims? So far this suspension lift seems like the only correct approach to leveling the truck vs sticking hockey pucks under the mounts. It’s been a challenge to do research on this subject because I think there is misinformation out there. Thanks for the input!
Ive ran Bilstein setups on my previous vehicles and liked the ride they always offered ... was considering them for the 2018 ram but it's annoying they don't supply a full assembly Springs + shocks ...
I have a 08 GMC 1500 that I used a 2" drop shackle kit and the same bilstein shocks but left them at stock ride hight, my truck sits level as well and handles real nice to boot, I did not give up much in payload because I carried 1600lbs of debri from a home project to the dump with it, and it did not bottom out at all, rode and drove fine with minimal droop. I dont know why they make stock 1500 trucks so raked like they do... nice video!
Im about to do mine. Im doing 5100s upfront new UCAs, 30% increase on front springs, 5100s valve for 2500/w 35% rear springs pergressive rate 1.5" taller. This should get me 3.5 front /3 rear
FYI: the rear springs will "settle" a bit to. Leaf springs more than coils but coils you can get about 1/2" of settling where leafs can be closer to an 1" of settling (or more). If you change springs and get alignment they SHOULD recommend coming back in 50 - 200 miles to recheck because of the settling and re torqueing.
for anyone wondering about tire size. I was inspired by this video and used these same shocks/struts. I changed rim size to 17 and was able to put on 315/70 BFG TA KO2 tires. if you have a sagging front wheel well gaurd towards the cab, then they may rub slightly in reverse or with mud/snow accumulation. but, fact is they don't rub any mechanical parts and the wheel well gaurd is easily zip tied back and the noise is gone. plus the off road performance you get from these shocks is superb.
Hey I’m going through the same issue. Just did the bilstein 5100 leveling but afterwards I put or tried to put 35x12.5x18 and it looks really cramped in there. How does your look.
Nice video, I've struggled so much to take the spring off, I've raised the shoks all the way up to 2.8 hopefully my lower balljoint won't explode out of there lol..and I'm planning to buy the rear too and set them up at 1"
Thanks for posting. I thought that maybe I could adjust the height according to my purpose.I broke my front valance the first time I went off road and would like to get some height adjustability.I now realize it isn't that easy.
if you want to really make the front of the truck look good remove the air dam under the bumper as it will give you more clearance and all around look better.
Man this is driving me crazy. These shocks are on my 2014 crew cab 4x4 (front only)I recently bought and then I put on 35x12.50x20 tires and on my tires from ground to fender in the front is 38 and a half inches with the back tire from ground to fender at 40 inches. Actually went to put on 2 and a half in spacers up front when I got the truck because of the stance. Really not looking to do a lift as it's not really a need with kiddos.
Kind of curious how adjusting the ring on the shock alters height...since the distance from mounting point to mounting point will not change with the adjustment of that ring, it seems as though it would only offer the adjustment of preload.
Adjusting the circlip ring on the shock does indeed increase the distance from mounting point to mounting point. Moving the ring up makes the spring assembly sit higher on the shock tube. Another way to explain/understand it is by measuring the bottom shock length below where the spring sits at each position. The measurement of the bottom portion of the shock is longer each time you raise the spring position using that ring. Since that part of the shock doesn’t change size as the shock and spring is compressed, it is able to increase your ride height.
Curious now if you've had any issues with upper ball joints coming out like everyone else using the pucks. Looking at putting these Bilsteins on the front
HATE level trucks....a good rake ensures you won't look all saggy when hauling something, I would put a spacer on the rear springs to give it a boost for another 2" or so.....BUT great vid guys! I want those bilstein front bad
We have friends that share your same opinion, so we’ve heard this before, and it’s a valid point. Glad you enjoyed the video! Can’t say enough about the Bilstein’s they have been on for over a year with zero issues.
I want to do this to my truck but agree that I hate when trucks are leveled and sag with cargo. Looks ridiculous imo. I want to do this and will probably add a block in the back to maintain some rake at least. I do want to put 35” with 12.5inch width on my truck but dont want to use adapter so I’m debating if I want to invest in rims. My truck now has 150,000 miles so don’t think I want to drop nearly $3,000 grand into it.
Which Tufftruck springs did you use? Tufftruck has 5 different springs for the Ram 1500. I just ordered my Bilstein 5100's and may want to add springs if they make my rear end softer.
I set my fronts at 2.1 inches. Rear are stock, i feel the distance between the front tire and wheel well os higher than the back which is very annoying 😅.. i noticed you guys set it to the max front lift, did you raise the rear?
Awesome video!!! How have the ball joints held up? I can't wait to install mine. But I hear people are having issues with the upper ball joint and replacing them with mevotech's...
so far so good. We did get wind of this issue before installation. Chris plans to run the set up until new upper ball joints are needed and then replace. It is true that anytime suspension angles are altered, wear can be increased, in some cases greatly. With the fact that this is a mild lift we don't anticipate having to change wear items such as ball joints & CV shafts too often but maybe more often than if the stock set up was used. Good Question, glad you enjoyed the install video!!
Can you provide an update on the upper ball joint since another year has gone by. I'm wondering if the ball joint is still holding up ok. I want to put these on the front of my truck to level it out and the shop I took it to said they won't perform the repair without putting an aftermarket upper control arm on it - claiming the ball joint won't hold up without it. I'm debating on doing the job myself like you did....
You guys are awesome! I bought 5100s and the rear springs from tuf truck but I just realized I ordered the 35% . See what happens. Have you done any engine performance mods, for pulling that trailer?
Looks perfect!!!!!!!! It's the right amount of additional clearance where a pickup needs it most. Is it a 4x4? Factory payload on the 4x4 is about 1500 lbs. Whats the payload now? I'll be doing this to my 1500 also. What wheel size and type of tires you got there? Looks like BGF ATs. Mine has the 20" wheels and its hard to find a good tire with a thick sidewall for A/T purpose. I have the Dueler A/T's right now.
Hey bud question for ya... how are the bilsteins holding up ? Did you like them would you recommend? Im only looking to level the front of my truck i have a 2017 1500 sport night edition and dont really want to use spacers for a level i only want to go up about 2"in the front to fit bigger tires its all this looks legit but there are so many products out there hard to decide, now will this level out my truck? And did you have to like upgrade your upper control arms? Did your angles change ? Anything down on the suspension wear out fast or have any issues ?
The 13:20 insalled the washer incorrectly. I would imagine many people followed your video and ran into the piston shaft breaching through the top housing.
Hi I have a 2015 1500 5.7 RWD I want to just lift the front and all the shops in my area say my truck doesn’t have struts that I have to replace the springs in order to put the bigger 5100 shocks
Great video, one of the best ones I've seen on the topic! You guys explained things very well, and now I'm much more confident in my ability to do the job, with a little help from my friends of course. 4 hands are often better when working on trucks :-)
Thank you very much! This is Exactly why we like to put these types of videos out, we want to help other people enjoy the automotive hobby like we do! Thank you for watching!
I have the same truck same year everything.. I level the front 2 inches .. now the back sits lower? Anything I can do for the back.. the front is 39 1/4 back is 38 .. please help
ric000, what tuftruck springs were used and how do they perform? I have been looking at them because ill be leveling my truck but want to limit the sag in the rear while pulling my 9500lbs trailer.
After watching this video a few times, I have to wonder why no one buys new strut mounts for $40 instead of messing around with taking the old one apart
Have the same set up on my 2011 1500, wondering if you noticed the shocks sagged a little from settling? The 5100 shocks have been installed for about 2 years now currently have 265/70r20 duratracs on and front ride height is sitting at 38"
You guys never did a review of the ride and handling after the install. I'd like to know what he thinks of the 5100's. I don't want to change the spring but I want to do the shocks all around.
I honestly don’t know. With all the right tools in a proper garage, I would say this would take 2-3 hours? Took us about 4 but we were video taping the process.
Why do people assume a washer goes under the nut.. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS... YOU did this WRONG!!! The washer goes under the top spring hat,,,which it goes on the rod, Not under the nut..now the shock rod will eventually come thru the top spring hat and it will be all F'd up.
I did the same thing to and then found out in the comment that shouldn't have been that way..but in other comments he said that was over a year without any issue so I wouldn't bother taking everything apart..
have you had any problems with your front half shafts I installed these few months ago now I have a lot of play in them. I was told it will keep happening with the level shocks and that I need a proper lift
How did they hold up? Just got 2 front shocks today. I wanna do mine at the highest setting (2.8) but I don’t know if that would make my 2018 ram squat
I'm interested in installing Bilstein 5100s in my 2017 Ram 1500 sport. How do you like the new rear springs and do you have any reliability issues with the front struts? I'm trying to debate if I should go with the 2.1" and factory rear height, or go 2.8" and add the Bilstein B12 spring.
We did, basically it came down to price. Using bags in the rear would be the best situation, but comes at additional cost, and having to mount a compressor and tank.
Brian C. Wuttke I bought a pair of air bags from airlift for 100$ bucks and I am very happy with them, I load up my atv which weighs around 450lbs and the back of the truck stays the same. Check them out, i installed myself in 2:00hrs with no on board compressor though, i just inflate them from my garage compressor.
@@erchachanfles those are the ones that go in the spring ? They're well known to get pinched in the spring, you spent a 100$ mind as well spend a little extra and get the actual air bag they're fenomenal..
Bump: I'm not the first to point this out, but the washer was not installed correctly; it goes on the shaft before the top of the strut, not after. Hopefully this has not caused you any problems as this was otherwise a very helpful video. Thanks.
hey i did exactly how you did in video now my radio doest work!!!Just kidding nice video!!! READ THE INSTRUCTIONS PEOPLE!! im gona try and tackle mine before the cold hits!! thanks
Great video...thanks for posting. Looking at the same lift/level upgrade for my 2017 Big Horn 4WD, however I had not planned on new rear springs as my hauling rarely approaches the stock limits. Wondered if the rear lift you achieved was from the new shocks or more from the springs? Also, I see that the lift kit sold by Mopar (P5155797) looks to use the same/similar Bilstein shocks but also includes hardware "to address rear stabilizer bar, brake hose length and compression travel". Have any of these issues been a problem in your experience? (BTW...whatever the "extra" hardware in the Mopar kit is, it must be made of gold 'cause the kit costs more than twice what the front/rear Bilsteins cost!)
@@quinnhardtke472 I did add the Bilsteins and have been completely happy with them. I like the look and the ride/steering felt the same to me. It's been a few years but if I recall correctly I also added .75" spacers in the rear and kept the stock springs. BTW, I regularly tow a 20' dovetail trailer loaded with 4K+ lbs of tractor/implements with no issues. Two big thumbs up from me. 👍👍 (To be clear...I did NOT order the Ram kit, just the shocks and a set of Top Gun Customz .75"spacers off of Amazon.)
ric0000 how about the angle of the ball joint and tie rod ends. I’m afraid of the more extreme angles they’re in which can cause premature wear should I decide to level my truck. Also is ur truck 2wd?
Looking at this kit for my 2015 ram, but I have a question, do you have to tire alignment every time you change the height? For example; having it at a 2" lift in city, then putting it to 0" lift when driving on the highway. Would I to re-align the tires every time you do this?
After you install the Kit you need to have an alignment. If you are talking about changing the ride height as you go after the install and alignment, you'd probably be OK.
@@ric0000 i know its been years since you asked this but thats not okay to do.. think about it if you put it back to stock and wouldnt have to get it aligned why would you have to after you went up 2"?
I'm surprised the rear didnt lift any higher. Are you happy with it? No issues with front uca/balljoint wearing out with the 2.8" lift? I'm thinking of doing the exact same.
Sounds like the product description is accurate with that kit, levels the truck out and takes away factory Rake! Great video Guys!
Glad you enjoy the video, Thank you for watching!
Mrmoparrr u
ric0000 what is song playing around 8:45 when you guys are compressing the spring?
But why get rid of the rake
@@QCSACrashedToysSPR Most Metallica or megadeath music will be sufficient when compressing a Spring.
Make sure to install the washer UNDER the oem top parts on the strut assembly, just the nut goes on top, the washer keeps the piston rod from going through the top plate.
You appear CORRECT, These are the instructions as per the Website:
3. Install the spring seat adapter (supplied) such that the groove inside the spring seat adapter fits
over the circlip on the shock body. See Figure 2. Install the spring seat adapter in the direction
shown only. The circlip must fit completely in the groove inside spring seat adapter. Improper
installation will cause permanent damage to the shock!
4. Reinstall OEM spring seat and OEM bumpstop in the direction shown only.
5. Install new washer (supplied) on piston rod as shown.
6. Reinstall the coil spring, all original upper mount parts and upper spring hat in their original
locations (reverse order of disassembly). Install new lock nut (supplied) and tighten to 45 N•m
(34 lb•ft). Do not re-use original lock nut.
Good Catch!
Glad I saw this comment. Thanks
Please place washer on the inside of top of piston and not on top of the strut mount
you are correct. The washer was insalled incorrectly. The piston shaft will breach through
Just a word of advice, it only requires two spring clamps to compress the strut springs, and if you use for force of the spring to retain vertical pressure on the strut nut it makes removing the strut nut much quicker then fumbling with box wrenches
Thank you for the advice!!! I upgraded to dirt logic coil overs!
great video, thanks for posting! I plan to do a similar modification to my 2012 ram 1500 and wanted to make sure that the reviews were positive for the parts. The installation video was also a huge help
I glad you found it helpful! We are glad it helped you make an informed decision before you spend the money on the parts.
how much did the ride quality improve? were you happy w/ the upgrade a year or two later?
Thanks for doing this video guys. It helped me on my install big time. For anyone wanting to do this who lives in an area where they use salt on the roads, be prepared to cut the old struts out and replace the bushings that the lower shock bolt goes through. It's doable with a ball joint press.
Very true, we are in the North-East, heavy salt. This was one of the reasons Chris wanted to do this the first summer he owned the truck. So, if you have a truck you will be doing suspension work on that have been through a few hard winters, it will need some extra effort to get all the parts apart.
@@ric0000 i honestly live in Alberta, Canada...and after 2 yrs of heavy snow,salt and cold I've taken the parts out with no problem at all...my only issue was trying to figure out how to take the spring off... I didn't have your video as guide tho !
I would pull the calipers from the rear before dropping the axle that much. you stretched the shit out of the brake lines.
True, good catch, good advice for anyone else looking to do a project similar to this. thanks!
needless to say i wasnt the only one watching those brakes and cringing xD
I was just going to make a comment about that and then brake lines I was cringing the whole time watching this but you helped me and finished it off good job good eye
You guys make it look so easy....i couldn't even take the tie rod out or the lower bolt from the strut those things are stuck...i took it to some mechanics and they wont do it bcuz they said that little ring wont hold the pressure from the springs...so i have to wait till someone can actually put them on....good job guys
Good video plan to have the same setup on my ram except I'm gonna add a 1" spacer in the rear. Thanks for sharing!
The washer that is supplied does NOT go right under the nut.......it goes on the rod BEFORE the top spring seat is mounted. Check Bilstiens directions closely. WILL CAUSE DAMAGE IF DONE WRONG!
5100s are the move I threw them on 22 warlock and it sits perfect now
When removing the nut from the old strut if space is tight, I find it much easier to us a large set of vise grips to hold the strut shaft through the coils of the spring to prevent it from rotating.Using this method you are able to use your ratchet or air tools saving time and effort. Great Video!
The biggest risk in that process is scuffing and scaring the strut shaft. Once the shaft is gouged, scratched or chipped it cannot make a complete seal into the strut allowing dirt to get in, and oil to get out. If you do not intend on using the old struts, buy all means vice grip that thing and have at it. But for anyone looking to re-install new or re-use old, do not grip the strut shaft.
I think he meant disassembling but I could be wrong. I use the same method of vice grips thru the coil on the shaft for disassembling. That is usually the harder part of the job especially when you live in the salt belt like I do
I like your video but you have a major flaw. I followed the video for the front leveling. I installed my front Bilsteins the same way you did, with the washer under the nut. Then I test drove and heard a clunking noise on every bump and crack in the road. I researched and downloaded the proper full length instructions from Bilstein. They said to install the bumper then the washer and then put the shock into the spring assembly and lastly install the nut. The way it was installed allowed the shock stem to freely move up and down through the top plate without dampening at all. I had to do this job twice. If you haven't corrected yours then you may want to before damage occurs. Please correct this major flaw so others don't make the same mistake.
When i saw him drop the washer under the nut i immediately came into the comments glad to see someone else caught that major mistake. 13:04
Fuck ! I installed the first one like that and started to rain...this morning i was gonna do the second but I'm way to lazy to take apart everything again and redo it..will it make such a big difference a freaking washer ?
A Varn I’m looking hard at this setup.....and by the way, awesome contribution so others do not damage something they just invested in....how is the truck after alignment on the highway?
Any negative aspects? Also do the UCA’s stay within a reasonable geometry? Appreciated
@@stephenwilliams1364
The bilsteins have worked out great for me. The ride is real close to the same as stock with a little better response. Highway driving is basically the same. When I installed the bilsteins I replaced the uca's with some that are made for up to a 3 inch lift. I changed those due to the horror stories that I've read about where the stock ucas are stessed too much and the ball joint pops out. It added $300 bucks to the job but I have the peace of mind.
Thanks
What brand UCAs did u invest in? Also can I still use my factory rims? So far this suspension lift seems like the only correct approach to leveling the truck vs sticking hockey pucks under the mounts. It’s been a challenge to do research on this subject because I think there is misinformation out there. Thanks for the input!
Ive ran Bilstein setups on my previous vehicles and liked the ride they always offered ... was considering them for the 2018 ram but it's annoying they don't supply a full assembly Springs + shocks ...
I have a 08 GMC 1500 that I used a 2" drop shackle kit and the same bilstein shocks but left them at stock ride hight, my truck sits level as well and handles real nice to boot, I did not give up much in payload because I carried 1600lbs of debri from a home project to the dump with it, and it did not bottom out at all, rode and drove fine with minimal droop. I dont know why they make stock 1500 trucks so raked like they do... nice video!
Im about to do mine. Im doing 5100s upfront new UCAs, 30% increase on front springs, 5100s valve for 2500/w 35% rear springs pergressive rate 1.5" taller. This should get me 3.5 front /3 rear
FYI: the rear springs will "settle" a bit to. Leaf springs more than coils but coils you can get about 1/2" of settling where leafs can be closer to an 1" of settling (or more). If you change springs and get alignment they SHOULD recommend coming back in 50 - 200 miles to recheck because of the settling and re torqueing.
for anyone wondering about tire size. I was inspired by this video and used these same shocks/struts. I changed rim size to 17 and was able to put on 315/70 BFG TA KO2 tires. if you have a sagging front wheel well gaurd towards the cab, then they may rub slightly in reverse or with mud/snow accumulation. but, fact is they don't rub any mechanical parts and the wheel well gaurd is easily zip tied back and the noise is gone. plus the off road performance you get from these shocks is superb.
Hey I’m going through the same issue. Just did the bilstein 5100 leveling but afterwards I put or tried to put 35x12.5x18 and it looks really cramped in there. How does your look.
I cringed when I first saw you put 2 spring compressors on but was relieved when you put 2 more on.
Nice video, I've struggled so much to take the spring off, I've raised the shoks all the way up to 2.8 hopefully my lower balljoint won't explode out of there lol..and I'm planning to buy the rear too and set them up at 1"
Stock tire size? I apologize if it’s already been covered. Thanks
Ride quality? Better then stock suspension
Thanks for posting. I thought that maybe I could adjust the height according to my purpose.I broke my front valance the first time I went off road and would like to get some height adjustability.I now realize it isn't that easy.
if you want to really make the front of the truck look good remove the air dam under the bumper as it will give you more clearance and all around look better.
Man this is driving me crazy. These shocks are on my 2014 crew cab 4x4 (front only)I recently bought and then I put on 35x12.50x20 tires and on my tires from ground to fender in the front is 38 and a half inches with the back tire from ground to fender at 40 inches. Actually went to put on 2 and a half in spacers up front when I got the truck because of the stance. Really not looking to do a lift as it's not really a need with kiddos.
Kind of curious how adjusting the ring on the shock alters height...since the distance from mounting point to mounting point will not change with the adjustment of that ring, it seems as though it would only offer the adjustment of preload.
The mounting point stays the same but the shock seat is moved up by the rings also these shocks are longer
Adjusting the circlip ring on the shock does indeed increase the distance from mounting point to mounting point. Moving the ring up makes the spring assembly sit higher on the shock tube. Another way to explain/understand it is by measuring the bottom shock length below where the spring sits at each position. The measurement of the bottom portion of the shock is longer each time you raise the spring position using that ring. Since that part of the shock doesn’t change size as the shock and spring is compressed, it is able to increase your ride height.
Curious now if you've had any issues with upper ball joints coming out like everyone else using the pucks. Looking at putting these Bilsteins on the front
Thanks guys very help full! I will buy this exact setup you should get something from Bilstein for this!
Hope he went right to an alignment shop after you finished the video?
not right after, but later that week he did get an alignment, it is a must after a project like this.
Correct......my first drive would have been to the alignment shop.
HATE level trucks....a good rake ensures you won't look all saggy when hauling something, I would put a spacer on the rear springs to give it a boost for another 2" or so.....BUT great vid guys! I want those bilstein front bad
We have friends that share your same opinion, so we’ve heard this before, and it’s a valid point. Glad you enjoyed the video! Can’t say enough about the Bilstein’s they have been on for over a year with zero issues.
your vid made me buy em....I'll report back in a week!
Awesome! Yes please share your results I'm sure many watching would be interested.
wouldn't the increased spring rate stop sagging a little???
I want to do this to my truck but agree that I hate when trucks are leveled and sag with cargo. Looks ridiculous imo. I want to do this and will probably add a block in the back to maintain some rake at least. I do want to put 35” with 12.5inch width on my truck but dont want to use adapter so I’m debating if I want to invest in rims. My truck now has 150,000 miles so don’t think I want to drop nearly $3,000 grand into it.
Which Tufftruck springs did you use? Tufftruck has 5 different springs for the Ram 1500. I just ordered my Bilstein 5100's and may want to add springs if they make my rear end softer.
Looks just like my ram I just have a 6" lift, different rims, wheels, & running board. Nice truck! 😄
Wheels AND rims?! Damn bro you ballin'! 😂
I set my fronts at 2.1 inches. Rear are stock, i feel the distance between the front tire and wheel well os higher than the back which is very annoying 😅.. i noticed you guys set it to the max front lift, did you raise the rear?
Awesome video!!! How have the ball joints held up? I can't wait to install mine. But I hear people are having issues with the upper ball joint and replacing them with mevotech's...
so far so good. We did get wind of this issue before installation. Chris plans to run the set up until new upper ball joints are needed and then replace. It is true that anytime suspension angles are altered, wear can be increased, in some cases greatly. With the fact that this is a mild lift we don't anticipate having to change wear items such as ball joints & CV shafts too often but maybe more often than if the stock set up was used. Good Question, glad you enjoyed the install video!!
Can you provide an update on the upper ball joint since another year has gone by. I'm wondering if the ball joint is still holding up ok. I want to put these on the front of my truck to level it out and the shop I took it to said they won't perform the repair without putting an aftermarket upper control arm on it - claiming the ball joint won't hold up without it. I'm debating on doing the job myself like you did....
I also would like to know how they are holding up after a year
I will like to know that as well 🤔?
@@Glock274Jimmy "supposedly" 2" is max u can go and still use oem steering geometry. I think how hard truck is used would enter into the equation too
How is it driving now? Did you have to get new control arms that were bigger so it wasn’t stressed on the ball joint?
You guys are awesome! I bought 5100s and the rear springs from tuf truck but I just realized I ordered the 35% . See what happens. Have you done any engine performance mods, for pulling that trailer?
I got a 2017 I've been looking for some good shocks and struts. Can u post the link for the parts u used.
Since everything has been installed. For months now... how is the tide? Esp with the new springs?
Looks perfect!!!!!!!! It's the right amount of additional clearance where a pickup needs it most. Is it a 4x4? Factory payload on the 4x4 is about 1500 lbs. Whats the payload now? I'll be doing this to my 1500 also. What wheel size and type of tires you got there? Looks like BGF ATs. Mine has the 20" wheels and its hard to find a good tire with a thick sidewall for A/T purpose. I have the Dueler A/T's right now.
Hey bud question for ya... how are the bilsteins holding up ? Did you like them would you recommend? Im only looking to level the front of my truck i have a 2017 1500 sport night edition and dont really want to use spacers for a level i only want to go up about 2"in the front to fit bigger tires its all this looks legit but there are so many products out there hard to decide, now will this level out my truck? And did you have to like upgrade your upper control arms? Did your angles change ? Anything down on the suspension wear out fast or have any issues ?
The 13:20 insalled the washer incorrectly. I would imagine many people followed your video and ran into the piston shaft breaching through the top housing.
Hello,
Awesome video! Can you send me the link of everything? I would like to purchase the same one for mine. Thanks
Hi I have a 2015 1500 5.7 RWD I want to just lift the front and all the shops in my area say my truck doesn’t have struts that I have to replace the springs in order to put the bigger 5100 shocks
Great video, one of the best ones I've seen on the topic! You guys explained things very well, and now I'm much more confident in my ability to do the job, with a little help from my friends of course. 4 hands are often better when working on trucks :-)
Thank you very much! This is Exactly why we like to put these types of videos out, we want to help other people enjoy the automotive hobby like we do! Thank you for watching!
I have a question, how was the ride after you installed these? Did it ride better?
Looks like there is 5 different levels to choose from? Like 5 different grooves the ring can sit around right?
The washer goes on the shock before anything then nut last
Correct! They put the washer on incorrectly. It goes on the piston rod prior to putting the cap on the spring and torquing the piston rod nut.
I know this was awhile ago but do you remember the model number of which springs you got from tuftruck?
I have the same truck same year everything.. I level the front 2 inches .. now the back sits lower? Anything I can do for the back.. the front is 39 1/4 back is 38 .. please help
I have a 2020 Bighorn with the Offroad group. The factory lift is ok but i definitely wanna do a bilstein lift and level. Very informative video.
ric000, what tuftruck springs were used and how do they perform? I have been looking at them because ill be leveling my truck but want to limit the sag in the rear while pulling my 9500lbs trailer.
Updates today on the truck?
For those asking about tire size, I'm also running the K02's. 275/65r20 fits on stock 4WD hight
Thank you for fielding that question.
After about 20 times I stopped answering it, haha.
After watching this video a few times, I have to wonder why no one buys new strut mounts for $40 instead of messing around with taking the old one apart
I hav heard its better ride quality
I have almost an identical truck. How are the upper controls and balls doing with the bilstein kit?
Hi, did you have a problem with dif drop after qll of this time, ot did something broke
Great video. I live in an apartment and will just pay a shop to install these.
Have the same set up on my 2011 1500, wondering if you noticed the shocks sagged a little from settling? The 5100 shocks have been installed for about 2 years now currently have 265/70r20 duratracs on and front ride height is sitting at 38"
What is the payload capacity after putting in the springs? How does the truck ride after without a load on it? And How does it handle offroad?
Old video, but for the front, if i install bilsteins. Will i have to replace all springs or will my stock ones work
stock springs will work in both front and back
Those jack stands look small what are they looks like what I've got but I thought they weren't heavy enough
Great video. Thank you very much for sharing.
You guys never did a review of the ride and handling after the install. I'd like to know what he thinks of the 5100's. I don't want to change the spring but I want to do the shocks all around.
knightwing4 go with the 5160 much better ride than the 5100
Why 5160????
Looks way better what if we take it to a shop how much would they charge to install this
I honestly don’t know. With all the right tools in a proper garage, I would say this would take 2-3 hours? Took us about 4 but we were video taping the process.
Why do people assume a washer goes under the nut.. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS... YOU did this WRONG!!! The washer goes under the top spring hat,,,which it goes on the rod, Not under the nut..now the shock rod will eventually come thru the top spring hat and it will be all F'd up.
Is this a 4x4 or 2wd? The kit says it only works for a 4x4. I’ve got a 2012 1500 2wd and want to put theses on my truck. Will it work?
Did u take the front struts apart again to put the supplied washer in under the top hat , cause I did the same thing
I did the same thing to and then found out in the comment that shouldn't have been that way..but in other comments he said that was over a year without any issue so I wouldn't bother taking everything apart..
have you had any problems with your front half shafts I installed these few months ago now I have a lot of play in them. I was told it will keep happening with the level shocks and that I need a proper lift
Did you end up needing a proper lift?
Pass through socket set makes that top strut nut a breeze. Bought one just for doing suspension work
I agree, that would probably be the most proper tool for the job.
Did the Bilstein shocks make it too stiff?
How did they hold up? Just got 2 front shocks today. I wanna do mine at the highest setting (2.8) but I don’t know if that would make my 2018 ram squat
I hope you drove it before measuring
What website did you get the new springs for the rear? I’ve been thinking about doing the same to my Ram. Thanks.
TUFTRUCK
How do the 5100s ride compared to the stock? Is it noticeable?
I'm interested in installing Bilstein 5100s in my 2017 Ram 1500 sport.
How do you like the new rear springs and do you have any reliability issues with the front struts?
I'm trying to debate if I should go with the 2.1" and factory rear height, or go 2.8" and add the Bilstein B12 spring.
how do you know what torque is required when using the torque lever.
Is your truck a 4x4? I ask because the front shock on mine looks different
Little hard but I was able to keep the tie rod attach. that upper nut for the rear shock was a bitchhh
Yes, that upper shock bolt can be a pain.... luckily Chris's truck is still pretty new so it came apart as easy as we could hope.
+ric0000 glad it worked out. looks great
Nice video, thanks for sharing. I am wondering if you considered using air bags in the rear?
We did, basically it came down to price. Using bags in the rear would be the best situation, but comes at additional cost, and having to mount a compressor and tank.
Brian C. Wuttke I bought a pair of air bags from airlift for 100$ bucks and I am very happy with them, I load up my atv which weighs around 450lbs and the back of the truck stays the same. Check them out, i installed myself in 2:00hrs with no on board compressor though, i just inflate them from my garage compressor.
@@erchachanfles those are the ones that go in the spring ? They're well known to get pinched in the spring, you spent a 100$ mind as well spend a little extra and get the actual air bag they're fenomenal..
I think you are supposed to put washer then top hat and then nut
Bump: I'm not the first to point this out, but the washer was not installed correctly; it goes on the shaft before the top of the strut, not after. Hopefully this has not caused you any problems as this was otherwise a very helpful video. Thanks.
Can anyone else hear these oem upper control arm ball joints screaming help???
Lol
fantastic video ! Also does did void your warranty ?
It did does not.
What size tires can you comfortably run with that size of level/lift? Want to run something similar and run slightly larger tires.
Nice job. ..So , did you or didn't you use new springs ?
What size are your tires? I like them a lot.
A little mistake you guys made with the washer it goes under not on top.
Good job boyz you took the long rout though like an subed
Sweet Gains Bro!
hey i did exactly how you did in video now my radio doest work!!!Just kidding nice video!!! READ THE INSTRUCTIONS PEOPLE!! im gona try and tackle mine before the cold hits!! thanks
Great video...thanks for posting. Looking at the same lift/level upgrade for my 2017 Big Horn 4WD, however I had not planned on new rear springs as my hauling rarely approaches the stock limits. Wondered if the rear lift you achieved was from the new shocks or more from the springs? Also, I see that the lift kit sold by Mopar (P5155797) looks to use the same/similar Bilstein shocks but also includes hardware "to address rear stabilizer bar, brake hose length and compression travel". Have any of these issues been a problem in your experience? (BTW...whatever the "extra" hardware in the Mopar kit is, it must be made of gold 'cause the kit costs more than twice what the front/rear Bilsteins cost!)
Did you ever end up buying that kit? If so, how was it on the truck?
@@quinnhardtke472 I did add the Bilsteins and have been completely happy with them. I like the look and the ride/steering felt the same to me. It's been a few years but if I recall correctly I also added .75" spacers in the rear and kept the stock springs. BTW, I regularly tow a 20' dovetail trailer loaded with 4K+ lbs of tractor/implements with no issues. Two big thumbs up from me. 👍👍
(To be clear...I did NOT order the Ram kit, just the shocks and a set of Top Gun Customz .75"spacers off of Amazon.)
GAINS GAINS GAINS!!! woopti freekin doo... Maybe a follow up review on the ride quality? Only the most important part....
Drives smooth -this isn't a radical kit.
How did you get that rear nut from behind the rear shock?
It’s been almost 2 year since you’ve done this, how are the UCAs? Has he replaced them yet?
Nope, still good.
ric0000 you set them at 2.8” right?
Yes i believe so, we set them to the max height.
Its not so much the uca to worry about it’s the cv shaft angle that can eventually cause huge problems.
Any updates?
Did you set your front struts at the highest setting?
What is the setting they are set at 2.1?
I was curious. What gave you that extra 1 inch at the rear wheel well? Was it the shocks or the springs?
Springs, they will probably loose some height once the settle in.
@@ric0000 they won't compress as much with truck's empty weight since they have higher/more capacity
@@ric0000 What springs did you get can you provide the part number?
Nice video guys. How's it been since? Any issues? Noises etc?
All good, no issues so far, road manners are good, tire ware is even.
ric0000 good to hear. Thank you.
ric0000 how about the angle of the ball joint and tie rod ends. I’m afraid of the more extreme angles they’re in which can cause premature wear should I decide to level my truck. Also is ur truck 2wd?
Yes I was wondering about the upper control arm ball joint. How are the angles on the ball joints. Please and thank you.
Looking at this kit for my 2015 ram, but I have a question, do you have to tire alignment every time you change the height? For example; having it at a 2" lift in city, then putting it to 0" lift when driving on the highway. Would I to re-align the tires every time you do this?
After you install the Kit you need to have an alignment. If you are talking about changing the ride height as you go after the install and alignment, you'd probably be OK.
ric0000 thanks for your help and the quick reply!
@@ric0000 i know its been years since you asked this but thats not okay to do.. think about it if you put it back to stock and wouldnt have to get it aligned why would you have to after you went up 2"?
I'm surprised the rear didnt lift any higher. Are you happy with it? No issues with front uca/balljoint wearing out with the 2.8" lift? I'm thinking of doing the exact same.
Just get a wheel alignment and it will be fine problems occur when you use spacers
@bdanielcal4608 100% alignment. I would never run spacers, they kill your bearings especially if you toe heavy. I think I will do the 2.1" lift.
Which model spring was used from tuftruck