I'm considering these for my F150 because I want to do a 2" level. I will also be installing slightly bigger wheels with bigger and heavier tires. Glad to see that these are very effective in improving ride quality even on paved roads.
Dude I literally just had my 6112's and 5160's installed a couple days after you uploaded this review, what a coincidence. I must say your review is spot on, they don't make your truck a hero and the K2XX platform will always ride "stiff" but wow the control these dampers have compared to the stock Rancho's is insane. You ever notice how when you go over a speed bump too fast the front wheel just rebound like there's not even a damper there and you hear a loud crash like someone hit your dashboard with a hammer? Then afterwards there are like one or two extra body movements as the truck settles back down again lol. That's the big thing I noticed doesn't happen any more thanks to these.
Good review. All I would add is 35 psi in a big tire in a empty truck is going to ride really stiff. Even dropping the front to just to 30 and the rear to 25 will make a huge difference. Remember off road only guys are running well under 15 psi.
My kids are getting sick driving on country roads. I just installed my 5160 rear shocks and waiting to get my 6112 shocks... Even with rear shocks I can feel the difference.
Thanks for this video sir. I just bought a 2021 GMC AT4 and everything you described about factory Rancho shocks are accurate. You just gained a subscriber sir!
Thank you for an excellent video review, I am purchasing these exact shocks on the front and rear of my truck hopefully this Friday, currently I get seasick and nauseous when I ride in the truck as it has stock heavy duty shocks, as opposed to stock shocks… Or the sport shot package from Ford. I literally don’t want to drive the truck until I get the suspension fixed because it’s truly upsetting to the stomach, I’m really hoping this new Bilstein 6112 front & 5160 rear suspension package will do the job, I’m told these are the best and I am paying whatever it takes to have the perfect ride in my Ford F150 2018, thank you again for supporting the decision I made a day before watching this✌️✨
My ‘17 Silverado LTZ came from the factory with Rancho…. My truck felt like a old school Cadillac…it was like a boat. I went with Bilstein 5100’s and they improved the ride quality. But I was told the 6112 are a little softer than the 5100.
If someone is worried about that spring compressor slipping a person can use a chain and lock to support the springing compressor if the compressor slips the chain and springing will catch it
I've been eyeballing this setup for my 16 f150. I want a set up that will absorb pot holes and speed bumps but have read a lot of reviews saying these are stiffer than stock. To me, coming from a lowered car on coil overs, stiffer means firm with hard hits to your spine. Not looking for pre-runner soft, but don't want race car coil over stiff.
Hello Dan! First time visitor to your site here and simply amazed! I even subscribed, right off before the end. I myself have installed Bilstein 5100’s front and rear in my 2019 Colorado WT Crew Cab, 4x4,V6. That I’m totally impressed with, even though I felt the stock struts/shocks on the WT trim level actually rode better than whatever Chevy uses on the 2016 Colorado Z71 Ext Cab I had before. I just can’t for the life of me figure why GM can’t just make the Bilstein available, across the board! Especially the higher end types. See I tow a 26’, 4,400-6,400lb travel trailer, all nice an level at a CGVW over a Cat Scale, totally loaded with a mobility scooter in the bed and everything my wife and two dogs needed for a weeks trip! All with plenty of power to maintain legal speed limits, on any grade of roads I’ve been over. Yes ok I live in Florida and have never driven up the Ike, but we have been up over the Smokey Mountains and through Virginia. Thebes’s part is the control with less harshness. Plus with either the 5100, or above Bilstein systems you also get more suspension travel, something you don’t get with in my opinion are worthless strut spacers! So good luck have fun and stay safe and healthy and keep your site going!
Thanks Kevin, I read every word. As a new GMC Canyon AT4 owner I too am searching for an improved system. My issue is my DuraTacs are stiff due to the thick amount of sidewall making airing down not very effective. But, I guess I don't need to worry over sidewall gouges as in the old days...
@@garbinator09 hello Gary! AT4’s are very nice! I feel you would be very satisfied with the ride and handling of any Bilstien upgrades, they go from the 4100 an up over a few levels of cost and hight and performance enhancements! The 5100, is really only the second wrung up the ladder. But with just the small amount of extra suspension travel, along with the improvements in dampening are well worth the investment. I could have gone 1/3” higher that I did, but I wanted to have the ability for at least 1,000 lbs, or towing my trailer ready to go with the truck and trailer as heavy as I need, nice and level, with a good ride and control as well as possible. Since the 5100’s we installed, I have not bottomed out the front or rear for that matter, anywhere I used to. On a long trip at night, my wife was driving and cut an intersection at an off ramp taking a left turn too tight, with the driver side front wheel hitting a huge hole at the edge of the median, that I was sure had damaged the alloy wheel! I mean this was a huge hit, that was actually absorbed quite well, not as hard as I know it would have been with the stock struts, as the springs are still original! But afterwards I checked the wheel to be sure an nothing was amiss. I now have fun amusing myself running over speed bumps! That have not caused a bottoming out yet, up to a fairly sane 45 mph! If it’s not too late I would highly suggest you look into the 5100’s, that can be bought off EBay at times, I found mine there, both front and rear for just under $500, but I’ll warn you retail in the Bilstien catalog is almost $700!! But still worth it to me! Just cheap spacers cost $100, with the labor an alignment the same! So why go through all that labor/cost to save $400-$600? When for the money you get better dampening all around and the exact lift, now actually from 0-2.6”! With the added option for 1” blocks raising the rear?!
Regarding Bilstien my 4 WP’s store told me Belstiens are backordered three to six months. Popularity. Wanted to guide me to Fox 2.0 coils and shocks with Fox resivore shocks rear. $2000 plus labor. I thought I’d do a wee more shopping before committing to the upgrade. Also, on GMC/Canyon forums, I cannot get any response to Fox complete system upgrade being well worth the $$$ for 2021 GMC Canyon AT-4. So, I going easy not sweating over much of it. Besides, I’m older and slower, 🤔
I upgraded the rear shocks on my 2020 GMC 3500HD AT4 from the bottom of the barrel stock rancho to the Bilstein 5100's...what a difference 20min makes...I was SO disappointed in GM's choosing of the rancho shocks for this truck, they are bottom of the barrel, why GM walked away from Bilstein is anyones guess...
Thx for the vid. Almost sold on them vs the Elka / Eibach / Fox / icon's.. 3" is a sweet spot between axle angle being ok vs dont use 4 high w/out lower a arm (full lift kit vs suspenaion lift). It's confusing at first w/ 6 ways to sunday on how you can achieve elevation..
I’m debating between the Bilstein 6112/5160 or Fox 2.5. My main concern is the longevity of the Bilstein, specifically the rust on them. I heard they tend to rust easily from road salt in the winter. Is that true?
Hello Dan, I just got the exact same setup in the exact same truck , absolutely amazing man. I’m waiting on the rears but on the front you can for sure feel the difference big time , I’m assuming with the rears it will be running like a caddi. Thank you very much I have been debating on what to get for over a year but with this review I placed my order after finishing the video ,again thanks man.
next step is to eliminate leaf springs (unsprung weight ratio) and get a kit for coils like dodge 15/25... as a bonus- -100 pounds from curb weight (MPGGG)+ 100 pounds in payload
Man!! I've been searching for moderate ride off-pavement opinions for my 2021 Canyon AT4 without much success. I only wish to maybe raise the front up an inch remove the air dam, upgrade my suspension. I will stay with stock-size wheels/tires. Now, thanks to your video I have a start point to begin.
i just wonder if these are worth upgrading to if i have the 5100s all around and do the same amount of offroading... thats the ultimate question to me ... great video
Thanks Christopher. I am not familiar with the 5100’s but if I had to guess I would think the 6112’s would be a drastic difference with the larger diameter shock body and new spring, maybe not so drastic with the 5160’s on the rear but also purely a guess.
Thanks. Reason there was no mention of camber is because this is a very minor modification that only lifts up to 2" and camber isnt going to be an issue once its re-aligned as I did after doing this work.
Great video. So these shocks will eliminate most of the floaty and bouncy motion on freeways? My Tacoma has the Yellow Bilstein shocks and it's giving me motion sickness. Looks like these shocks are the winner.
Hey bud question for ya... when the 6112s leveled the truck ... how did your upper control arms look? Did you have to upgrade them did you use the stock ones? How is it all holding up you have any issues with angles or stuff popping out etc?
Love this video. Quick question I have an 08 Silverado LTZ Z71 extended cab long box. I tow a 16 foot enclosed trailer with a full dresser motorcycle. What is your opinion on how well this upgrade would work towing this?
The bilstein rears make such a huge difference over the factory shocks, literally mind boggling how much better. Removes all the sway and boaty behavior
Hey, toward the end of the video there is a black o ring hanging down in the chrome, did that pop out of place and cause any issues? I’m getting ready to order this set up as my RC 3.5 knuckle lift caused too many issues. I cheaped out first time around. Not even a full year and I’m ready to get rid of them. Buy new knuckles from GM and go the bilstein route.
I’m assuming you are talking about that little O-Ring on the rear 5160’s? That was like that out of the box, not sure what its for but doesn’t appear to be any seals or parts of the shock body that are important. The shock itself is still running strong after a couple years, no leaks or anything.
So I have a 2018 Chevy silverado ltz. What setting do I need to have it on to get that 2 inches in the front with the 6112s to have it leveled with the rear?
just put the exact same set up on my 14 sierra double cab sle. (except did the 4th setting for highest lift) after your install, did you notice and subtle yet infrequent knocking noises when turning your steering wheel? on occasion i hear small noises not terrible but sort of concerns me. i have 20 inch wheels not 18s as well..not sure if that changes anything
Hmmm interesting. I haven’t noticed anything like that but I would assume a knocking noise would be something loose. I would get it up off the ground and double and triple check everything. Let me know what you find out.
Not very impressed with the 5160 (rear) performance I get alot of wheel hop at the beach. And just noticed they are leaking oil. I've had em for 3 years. I'm going to try the adjustable fox 2.0 resovoir shocks.
It would depend on what was more important to me at the time. Either leveling the truck, or calming down rear axle hop at highway speed. I can’t really answer that because it would depend on the specific truck more than just what I think in general.
Sorry to hear that. So the evolution for me was I did the 5160’s on the rear and noticed a little improvement, then I did a driveshaft swap which got rid of most the shake, and the 6112’s came after. If your truck has the 8 speed which I believe it does, try to have the dealer do the Mobil 1 blue label synthetic which seems to help a lot.
@@GearsGadgets mine is the 6l80 and 3.42 combo, fighting with the dealership at the moment too, tomorrow im telling them im done with the tires and insisting the look at the driveshaft/rear axle, thinking about having Joint clutch and gear make me a custom steel one and doing the Yukon axle swap, may go with a Dorman driveshaft too, looks like performance drivelines isnt making the one piece on their website any more
That vibration issue could be your transmission fluid. sound crazy but I have a 2017 Silverado 1500 6.2L that had a vibration issue. took it to the dealer and they told me that my transmission fluid has condensation in it. It had 68k so the trans fluid was never replaced. they put in a new grade of trans fluid (expensive) and my vibration went away.
@@gregc247 I have changed to the Dorman after dealer installed another OE driveshaft on my '17. I found the new one they installed had .047" runout. Dorman has less than .010" runout. Seemed to make the shake slightly less violent but did not go away. Dealer has also changed the complete rear axle assembly, F&R shocks, leaf springs, one front spring, multiple road force balances. Truck was in the shop for 110 days. I also tried the spring clamps and finally I added 2 degree shims. All this made it better (about half as bad) for a bit with the 2 degree shims making the most difference. I also changed to aftermarket wheels and Cooper tires which made no difference at all. 25k miles after all the repairs and another set of tires it is back to being just as bad as day one. Next I plan to try new 9/16 U-bolts. Maybe they are stretching? I too have the 6 speed so it does not qualify for the TSB on trans fluid. After filing BBB complaint GM offered 4 free oil changes and tire rotations. With that said if you want any action you will have to hire an attorney like Gears & Gadgets did. This is not an option for me since mine is a company truck and they seem to be concerned very little. They don't have to drive it everyday. So I just keep spending their money on parts.
At the highest setting, it will put the cv axles at a greater angle but nothing to be concerned about. Some guys have noted that 2.5" lifts and greater is when you start experiencing vibrations and excessive wear. I done the bilstein 6112 shocks at the highest setting along with a spacer above the strut which totaled up to 2.5" of lift and didn't notice any vibrations. The angles also did not look that bad. Shortly after though, I done a 1" differential drop that corrected the angles.
I didnt do the alignment and I have a couple thousand miles on them and it seems fine. The reason I didn't get too crazy with checking alignment is because the tires are about at the end of their life anyway so alignment will be done with new tires anyhow. If tires were newer, I would absolutely recommend the alignment.
Great video. I have the same truck and am considering the 6112's. What's the downside to going with the 4th highest setting on the shocks as opposed to the 3rd like you did?
I am not sure there is any downside, I was just trying to keep the spring rate not TOO firm even though it probably isnt a huge difference between the two settings. Also I didnt want to risk going to tall in the front end and having the rear end looking like it was squatting. I like keeping the front of the truck a LITTLE lower for the sake of how it will sit loaded.
@@Zo_bomaye I have a camper shell (I have a long bed) so I put the icon 3 pack add a leaf in the rear it sits dead level and I never went down from the 5th setting. I would like to I just don’t have the time or motivation to change the perch setting
Do you think the 5160 is worth the extra money over the 5100 for the rear of a truck? I'm trying to debate on which I should go with in my 2017 Ram 1500.
These are a 2.5" shock, where the Fox 2.0 is a 2" shock, so these will perform better in moderate speed offroad use. I think the Fox is a tad softer in the daily drive though
Awesome review, thanks for the info. I’m thinking about the same setup for my 2014 tundra. Did you replace anything else? Control arms etc? I find a lot of mixed opinions on that when lifting the front end
Yes. Each groove for the ring lifts the front a little. Probably about 2 inches at the top setting. It also firms up the soft feeling of the stock strut.
I wore sandals because my garage was well over 115 degrees. I wore a facemark because if a compressed spring blows, I would prefer not to take a nut or bolt through my head immediately ending my life. I would rather sever my toe than lose an eye or die kind of calculation. The heat in Arizona forces you to make some different kinds of calculations.
how are the 5100s on washboard roads? I am thinking of putting those in before I saw this video. Most of the campsites I wish to access will have stretches of washboard roads.
Atypical Gamer formal official answer is yes. Informal shadetree mechanic answer, I didn’t and haven’t noticed any difference but my tires are also already relatively end of life so I wasn’t too worried about it. Truck still tracks straight.
unfortunately Bilstein are unable to fulfill the many orders they have on Back order, i've had front shocks on order for 2 months, with no guarantee as to when they will be available!
@@GearsGadgets I ordered them from Summit Racing, back in October... Still haven’t received them . But in last few days I’ve called Bilstein, emailed them and called several of their major distributors across the US for anyone that might have 2 flipping front shocks for my GMC 2500 HD, none to be found anywhere. Factories apparently had been shut down and seemingly can’t produce enough to fill back orders, Bilstein today suggested I call 4 wheel parts - which I did had one young man said they are expected a shipment of 200, but they had back orders of over 350 already. Lady at Bilstein said they had been behind production since March. I regret installing the Bilsteins on my truck rear as now I can’t get the front to complete the project. Don’t want mix-match sets.
We have them and other Bilstein options here - www.shocksurplus.com/search?view=shop&q=silverado+6112#/filter:tags_vehicle_year:2015/filter:tags_vehicle_make:Chevrolet/filter:veh_model_metafiled:Silverado$25201500
Hey brother just installed the same setup on my 2018 lzt 4x4 .. after 1k miles I have noticed a more floatyness /bouncyness in the front mostly specially going 70 ish on higway roads when going over regular uneven road per say ... did you ever experience something similar ?? I would think these would of have made stiffer ride but feels softer per say. I have mine set to the 3rd setting as well.. Tires are inflated to 45psi ... trailboss rims and tire setup ... Could psi make a difference ??
I have 5100s on mine and first week it rode like a dream and than after that it seemed hard idk mostly more spring than shock working don't like how it rides going to change to some fox shocks
@@wacas24that’s really interesting, my experiences was the opposite. 07 sierra and I really enjoy the 5100s, they shine bright on the bouncy interstate going over transitions and bridges.
Long and short of it... more fluid, run cooler, and NOT the horribly riding OEM Ranchos. All around better ride quality on the highway, off road, and in parking lots hitting speed bumps.
Except it is a German company and “st” in German is pronounced “sht” so while I’m not from Germany I do try my best to pronounce things correctly so whereas my pronunciation is likely incorrect, yours is as well. Anyway, pronunciation police are one of my least favorite kinds of people however as a fellow GSP owner, your GSP icon softens the blow slightly. I classify debatable word pronunciation comments about as fun and intriguing as random strangers thinking hot or cold observations are worthy of conversation. It’s like "Porsh" vs. "Porsha.” One is right, and the other is lazy American phonetic English.
Do these coil overs level your truck out? Looks nice? I currently have a leveling kit so was wondering if I’d use the puck with these or if I wouldn’t need them anymore. Thanks
I did not need to upgrade my UCA, I am not 100% sure on if that statement is universal with all configurations and I wouldn’t want to speak out of turn.
Will this same set fit an 09 escalade esv?! I know GM 1500 trucks n suv’s are literally generic as fuck lol!!.. but bilstein fitment guide list absolutely nothing for my truck...
so your truck doesn't shake a lot anymore with the new drive shaft? I put those same shocks in the front of my 18 GMC Z71 but I kept the stock spring. What is the difference between the z71 spring and the Bilstein one?
The shaking was drastically reduced nearly down to nothing with the new driveshaft. I’m not sure what the difference in spring rate is between the Bilsteins and OEM. I just trusted Bilstein engineers more than GM’s lol. How do they run with the GM spring?
@@GearsGadgets big improvement! I'm no longer hitting the headliner with my head after hitting large dips and bumps on the road. The rebound was terrible with the stock struts.
Z71 twin tube shocks are probably the worst shock on any truck....fact you have to pay extra is ubsurd....stock AC Delcos are better and they arent even that good.....I would get a Z71 for other benefits but would yank this shocks immediately off.......anything is an improvement over them.......TB Ranchos are monotube and are decent......had 2 or 3 sets of Bilsteins and no complaints.....should have done this along time ago my friend!
Man you’re paranoid about the spring based on high school shop rumors. Fear mongering makes people afraid of taking on a project. Yeah the stiffer the spring the more force it goes with. With that said a cars struts assembly from a civic, bmw 3 series and a mazda cx5 the ive loosed them all with no compressor and it wasn’t like gun just a little squirt
@@GearsGadgets You can't be serious. There is a correct way to say it and it's quite simple to determine what that is (by following how the company itself pronounces it), but if willful ignorance is more your style, have at it. Good grief.
@@dlg5485 call it willful ignorance or pretentious comment. I go back and forth because no matter which way you say it either in the German proper or American English phonetic, some dope will comment that you’re saying it wrong. If you watch videos on Bilsteins own RUclips channel pronunciation is all over the map. Gotta love the “Ackchyually you’re wrong” people in life. So yes, I am serious, I am 100% comfortably over the poindexter self righteous comments like this.
![Completely UNBIASED Suspension Shootout [Shock Value Conclusion]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/sJEkSmewcQE/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm considering these for my F150 because I want to do a 2" level. I will also be installing slightly bigger wheels with bigger and heavier tires. Glad to see that these are very effective in improving ride quality even on paved roads.
Great option to level out the vehicle
Dude I literally just had my 6112's and 5160's installed a couple days after you uploaded this review, what a coincidence. I must say your review is spot on, they don't make your truck a hero and the K2XX platform will always ride "stiff" but wow the control these dampers have compared to the stock Rancho's is insane. You ever notice how when you go over a speed bump too fast the front wheel just rebound like there's not even a damper there and you hear a loud crash like someone hit your dashboard with a hammer? Then afterwards there are like one or two extra body movements as the truck settles back down again lol. That's the big thing I noticed doesn't happen any more thanks to these.
100%. and definitely a HUGE difference with speed bumps.
That hammer sound is the UCA coming in contact with the "service stop" on the frame. It's GM's way of limiting down travel in the suspension.
yeah, the factory Rancho's are absolute....ly horrible.
Good review. All I would add is 35 psi in a big tire in a empty truck is going to ride really stiff. Even dropping the front to just to 30 and the rear to 25 will make a huge difference. Remember off road only guys are running well under 15 psi.
Pft. I run at cold 44psi on my half tons ;);)
My kids are getting sick driving on country roads. I just installed my 5160 rear shocks and waiting to get my 6112 shocks... Even with rear shocks I can feel the difference.
Yeah they are incredible
Thanks for this video sir. I just bought a 2021 GMC AT4 and everything you described about factory Rancho shocks are accurate. You just gained a subscriber sir!
Absolutely man. I appreciate the sub!! I just did another update in the last couple days ruclips.net/video/55zr3LuemwI/видео.html
Most city streets and highways are in really bad shape nowadays, just like the dirt road you were on! These would be an ideal daily driver set up.
Thank you for an excellent video review, I am purchasing these exact shocks on the front and rear of my truck hopefully this Friday, currently I get seasick and nauseous when I ride in the truck as it has stock heavy duty shocks, as opposed to stock shocks… Or the sport shot package from Ford. I literally don’t want to drive the truck until I get the suspension fixed because it’s truly upsetting to the stomach, I’m really hoping this new Bilstein 6112 front & 5160 rear suspension package will do the job, I’m told these are the best and I am paying whatever it takes to have the perfect ride in my Ford F150 2018, thank you again for supporting the decision I made a day before watching this✌️✨
Thanks Joel I appreciate it.
My ‘17 Silverado LTZ came from the factory with Rancho…. My truck felt like a old school Cadillac…it was like a boat.
I went with Bilstein 5100’s and they improved the ride quality. But I was told the 6112 are a little softer than the 5100.
I wish my sierra rode like a caddy. She rides like she has cinderblocks for suspension.
If someone is worried about that spring compressor slipping a person can use a chain and lock to support the springing compressor if the compressor slips the chain and springing will catch it
Mine come in tomorrow. So excited to put these on my rebel with the UCA
I've been eyeballing this setup for my 16 f150. I want a set up that will absorb pot holes and speed bumps but have read a lot of reviews saying these are stiffer than stock. To me, coming from a lowered car on coil overs, stiffer means firm with hard hits to your spine. Not looking for pre-runner soft, but don't want race car coil over stiff.
Hello Dan! First time visitor to your site here and simply amazed! I even subscribed, right off before the end. I myself have installed Bilstein 5100’s front and rear in my 2019 Colorado WT Crew Cab, 4x4,V6. That I’m totally impressed with, even though I felt the stock struts/shocks on the WT trim level actually rode better than whatever Chevy uses on the 2016 Colorado Z71 Ext Cab I had before. I just can’t for the life of me figure why GM can’t just make the Bilstein available, across the board! Especially the higher end types. See I tow a 26’, 4,400-6,400lb travel trailer, all nice an level at a CGVW over a Cat Scale, totally loaded with a mobility scooter in the bed and everything my wife and two dogs needed for a weeks trip! All with plenty of power to maintain legal speed limits, on any grade of roads I’ve been over. Yes ok I live in Florida and have never driven up the Ike, but we have been up over the Smokey Mountains and through Virginia. Thebes’s part is the control with less harshness. Plus with either the 5100, or above Bilstein systems you also get more suspension travel, something you don’t get with in my opinion are worthless strut spacers! So good luck have fun and stay safe and healthy and keep your site going!
Thanks Kevin, I read every word. As a new GMC Canyon AT4 owner I too am searching for an improved system. My issue is my DuraTacs are stiff due to the thick amount of sidewall making airing down not very effective. But, I guess I don't need to worry over sidewall gouges as in the old days...
Thanks Kevin, sorry its taken me a bit to get back to you but I really appreciate the sub. I love my Bilstein setup.
@@garbinator09 hello Gary! AT4’s are very nice! I feel you would be very satisfied with the ride and handling of any Bilstien upgrades, they go from the 4100 an up over a few levels of cost and hight and performance enhancements! The 5100, is really only the second wrung up the ladder. But with just the small amount of extra suspension travel, along with the improvements in dampening are well worth the investment. I could have gone 1/3” higher that I did, but I wanted to have the ability for at least 1,000 lbs, or towing my trailer ready to go with the truck and trailer as heavy as I need, nice and level, with a good ride and control as well as possible. Since the 5100’s we installed, I have not bottomed out the front or rear for that matter, anywhere I used to. On a long trip at night, my wife was driving and cut an intersection at an off ramp taking a left turn too tight, with the driver side front wheel hitting a huge hole at the edge of the median, that I was sure had damaged the alloy wheel! I mean this was a huge hit, that was actually absorbed quite well, not as hard as I know it would have been with the stock struts, as the springs are still original! But afterwards I checked the wheel to be sure an nothing was amiss. I now have fun amusing myself running over speed bumps! That have not caused a bottoming out yet, up to a fairly sane 45 mph! If it’s not too late I would highly suggest you look into the 5100’s, that can be bought off EBay at times, I found mine there, both front and rear for just under $500, but I’ll warn you retail in the Bilstien catalog is almost $700!! But still worth it to me! Just cheap spacers cost $100, with the labor an alignment the same! So why go through all that labor/cost to save $400-$600? When for the money you get better dampening all around and the exact lift, now actually from 0-2.6”! With the added option for 1” blocks raising the rear?!
@@kevinvoyer5053 - Thanks Kevin. I noted your satisfaction towing 4 to 6400 pound tailer. I might be heading that way myself.
Regarding Bilstien my 4 WP’s store told me Belstiens are backordered three to six months. Popularity. Wanted to guide me to Fox 2.0 coils and shocks with Fox resivore shocks rear. $2000 plus labor. I thought I’d do a wee more shopping before committing to the upgrade. Also, on GMC/Canyon forums, I cannot get any response to Fox complete system upgrade being well worth the $$$ for 2021 GMC Canyon AT-4. So, I going easy not sweating over much of it. Besides, I’m older and slower, 🤔
Thank you for your review doing this on a 2019 Tahoe can’t wait
We needa 5 month review. I wanna see how they hold up thinking about getting these!!
I will work something up.
@@GearsGadgets link? ;)
I upgraded the rear shocks on my 2020 GMC 3500HD AT4 from the bottom of the barrel stock rancho to the Bilstein 5100's...what a difference 20min makes...I was SO disappointed in GM's choosing of the rancho shocks for this truck, they are bottom of the barrel, why GM walked away from Bilstein is anyones guess...
Thx for the vid. Almost sold on them vs the Elka / Eibach / Fox / icon's.. 3" is a sweet spot between axle angle being ok vs dont use 4 high w/out lower a arm (full lift kit vs suspenaion lift).
It's confusing at first w/ 6 ways to sunday on how you can achieve elevation..
Great review, thanks!
The stock rancho shocks are definitely mushy, Bilstein is an immediate upgrade
Any word on 8112's for the 21+ F-150?
I’m debating between the Bilstein 6112/5160 or Fox 2.5. My main concern is the longevity of the Bilstein, specifically the rust on them. I heard they tend to rust easily from road salt in the winter. Is that true?
Badass setup i wanna know with those u dont need a leveling spacer anymore right?
Hello Dan, I just got the exact same setup in the exact same truck , absolutely amazing man. I’m waiting on the rears but on the front you can for sure feel the difference big time , I’m assuming with the rears it will be running like a caddi. Thank you very much I have been debating on what to get for over a year but with this review I placed my order after finishing the video ,again thanks man.
next step is to eliminate leaf springs (unsprung weight ratio) and get a kit for coils like dodge 15/25... as a bonus- -100 pounds from curb weight (MPGGG)+ 100 pounds in payload
Great Video.... Loved the off road scene can't wait to try that !
I perchance this exact set up and it didn't change my ride much it still dances in TBD rear when I hit hard transitions in tube road
Interesting, the rear end dancing went away immediately when I put the 5160's on
Excellent review and install Dan, and it is dangerous if you don't know what your doing, good job brother 💯👍🏼
Appreciate it!!
@@GearsGadgets 👍🏼💯
I subscribed because we have the same truck and I was thinking of doing this. THANKS FOR THE VIDEO!
Man!! I've been searching for moderate ride off-pavement opinions for my 2021 Canyon AT4 without much success. I only wish to maybe raise the front up an inch remove the air dam, upgrade my suspension. I will stay with stock-size wheels/tires. Now, thanks to your video I have a start point to begin.
Thanks I appreciate the kind words, happy I could help.
Can you fit the 5160's on a GMC sierra 1500? I noticed that on the website the 1500 is not listed as compatible
So forgive my ignorance but you have replaced the torsion bars with coil overs ?
So did you install the full suspension kit or just the shock absorbers on the OEM shocks?
i just wonder if these are worth upgrading to if i have the 5100s all around and do the same amount of offroading... thats the ultimate question to me ... great video
Thanks Christopher. I am not familiar with the 5100’s but if I had to guess I would think the 6112’s would be a drastic difference with the larger diameter shock body and new spring, maybe not so drastic with the 5160’s on the rear but also purely a guess.
Your front brake rotors - what did you upgrade too? Thanks in advance
What kind of brake/rotor upgrade did you do to your truck
Very well done !! Thank you.
Thanks Mike, I appreciate it.
Great video. What lift are you running in the truck and what size tires are those? The stance / height looks fantastic!
The Billstein strut is the lift.. Adjustable heights, back stays stock w/the 5160's with reservoir.
Great video 👍 But I’m wondering why there was no mention of camber?
Thanks. Reason there was no mention of camber is because this is a very minor modification that only lifts up to 2" and camber isnt going to be an issue once its re-aligned as I did after doing this work.
Great video. So these shocks will eliminate most of the floaty and bouncy motion on freeways? My Tacoma has the Yellow Bilstein shocks and it's giving me motion sickness. Looks like these shocks are the winner.
Yes Bilstein is designed to eliminate exactly what you're talking about, these 6112s and 5100s and 4600s make the handling a lot tighter
Hey bud question for ya... when the 6112s leveled the truck ... how did your upper control arms look? Did you have to upgrade them did you use the stock ones? How is it all holding up you have any issues with angles or stuff popping out etc?
My UCA’s looked fine and have held up fine too. I haven’t had any issues.
Nice truck. Hey, did you have to install Lift Blocks in the back? I will appreciate your feedback. Thanks
Great video thanks for the info, i see you cut the oem droop stop on the UCA did that cause any issues with 4x4 binding?
Not at all
Good video! Going to be installing these 6112s on my Rebel soon.
You will love them
@@GearsGadgets I may do a video of install. Do you mind if I reference this video or provide a link, etc?
I went to the website and they say they don’t have any products for a 2010 GMC Sierra Denali which makes no sense
Interesting. They might not be out for that gen of GM truck yet.
I just bought a 2021 4x2 Chevrolet Silverado and it bounces all over the place. Could I use the Bilstein's on my truck? Thanks for the video.
Yes, I believe so.
THANK YOU!!! I've been looking for some sort of review of these shocks on a GM 1500.
Glad I could help! Thanks for watching.
= Very nice i did same but mix up with my 2005 2500HD up front was KYB MonoNax rear Fox's 2.5
Love this video. Quick question I have an 08 Silverado LTZ Z71 extended cab long box. I tow a 16 foot enclosed trailer with a full dresser motorcycle. What is your opinion on how well this upgrade would work towing this?
The bilstein rears make such a huge difference over the factory shocks, literally mind boggling how much better. Removes all the sway and boaty behavior
Hey, toward the end of the video there is a black o ring hanging down in the chrome, did that pop out of place and cause any issues? I’m getting ready to order this set up as my RC 3.5 knuckle lift caused too many issues. I cheaped out first time around. Not even a full year and I’m ready to get rid of them. Buy new knuckles from GM and go the bilstein route.
I’m assuming you are talking about that little O-Ring on the rear 5160’s? That was like that out of the box, not sure what its for but doesn’t appear to be any seals or parts of the shock body that are important. The shock itself is still running strong after a couple years, no leaks or anything.
So I have a 2018 Chevy silverado ltz. What setting do I need to have it on to get that 2 inches in the front with the 6112s to have it leveled with the rear?
When you bought them did they come with the spring?? Because I called them and they said they utilize the factory spring that's on my truck now..
6112s come with new springs, 5100s re-use factory springs
Is this setup can be fit in Sierra 1500 2010
just put the exact same set up on my 14 sierra double cab sle. (except did the 4th setting for highest lift) after your install, did you notice and subtle yet infrequent knocking noises when turning your steering wheel? on occasion i hear small noises not terrible but sort of concerns me. i have 20 inch wheels not 18s as well..not sure if that changes anything
Hmmm interesting. I haven’t noticed anything like that but I would assume a knocking noise would be something loose. I would get it up off the ground and double and triple check everything. Let me know what you find out.
New subscriber! Awesome video! What are you running for tires? Brand and size. Thank you.
Are these changes made in new trucks, of agency as well, or only after time of use? what do you think?
Not sure what your question is.
Is the 5160 rear shock only to use with the 6112 front, or could I go without the reservoir shocks?
You can go without the reservoir shocks, which are the 5100s
Hello. I have a 2009 gmc sierra crew cab. Would this fit?
Are there any safe and sane spring compressors?
Let me ask a question...does it matter with ride quality were you put the stop ring...like softer or more stiff?
Yes, it does. The higher the ring, the firmer the suspension will be.
Not very impressed with the 5160 (rear) performance I get alot of wheel hop at the beach. And just noticed they are leaking oil. I've had em for 3 years.
I'm going to try the adjustable fox 2.0 resovoir shocks.
That sucks. I’m guessing that wheel hop means the oil is gone. First time I’ve heard of that from the 5160’s.
Did the same when they were new
If you could only upgrade the front or the rear, which would you do?
It would depend on what was more important to me at the time. Either leveling the truck, or calming down rear axle hop at highway speed. I can’t really answer that because it would depend on the specific truck more than just what I think in general.
Next upgrade...Kings!
I would love to get into something like that on my channel.
Did these help with your vibration at all? Im dealing with a vibration issue now similar to yours in my 18 chevy
Sorry to hear that. So the evolution for me was I did the 5160’s on the rear and noticed a little improvement, then I did a driveshaft swap which got rid of most the shake, and the 6112’s came after. If your truck has the 8 speed which I believe it does, try to have the dealer do the Mobil 1 blue label synthetic which seems to help a lot.
@@GearsGadgets mine is the 6l80 and 3.42 combo, fighting with the dealership at the moment too, tomorrow im telling them im done with the tires and insisting the look at the driveshaft/rear axle, thinking about having Joint clutch and gear make me a custom steel one and doing the Yukon axle swap, may go with a Dorman driveshaft too, looks like performance drivelines isnt making the one piece on their website any more
That vibration issue could be your transmission fluid. sound crazy but I have a 2017 Silverado 1500 6.2L that had a vibration issue. took it to the dealer and they told me that my transmission fluid has condensation in it. It had 68k so the trans fluid was never replaced. they put in a new grade of trans fluid (expensive) and my vibration went away.
@@gregc247 I have changed to the Dorman after dealer installed another OE driveshaft on my '17. I found the new one they installed had .047" runout. Dorman has less than .010" runout. Seemed to make the shake slightly less violent but did not go away. Dealer has also changed the complete rear axle assembly, F&R shocks, leaf springs, one front spring, multiple road force balances. Truck was in the shop for 110 days. I also tried the spring clamps and finally I added 2 degree shims. All this made it better (about half as bad) for a bit with the 2 degree shims making the most difference. I also changed to aftermarket wheels and Cooper tires which made no difference at all. 25k miles after all the repairs and another set of tires it is back to being just as bad as day one. Next I plan to try new 9/16 U-bolts. Maybe they are stretching? I too have the 6 speed so it does not qualify for the TSB on trans fluid. After filing BBB complaint GM offered 4 free oil changes and tire rotations. With that said if you want any action you will have to hire an attorney like Gears & Gadgets did. This is not an option for me since mine is a company truck and they seem to be concerned very little. They don't have to drive it everyday. So I just keep spending their money on parts.
What setting would it need to be if my Silverado has a 2 inch level?
Have you ever has bilstein 5100 or 4600??? Are the 6112 and 5160 feel softer on road then the 5100?
The 5100s and 5160s are going to feel nearly identical on the highway, you'll only see benefits of the 5160 in moderate speed offroad use
Great video man! Does this mess with your CV angle much ?
At the highest setting, it will put the cv axles at a greater angle but nothing to be concerned about. Some guys have noted that 2.5" lifts and greater is when you start experiencing vibrations and excessive wear. I done the bilstein 6112 shocks at the highest setting along with a spacer above the strut which totaled up to 2.5" of lift and didn't notice any vibrations. The angles also did not look that bad. Shortly after though, I done a 1" differential drop that corrected the angles.
Not that I have seen.
Check alignment after so you don't shred your tires.
I didnt do the alignment and I have a couple thousand miles on them and it seems fine. The reason I didn't get too crazy with checking alignment is because the tires are about at the end of their life anyway so alignment will be done with new tires anyhow. If tires were newer, I would absolutely recommend the alignment.
I wish the Ram struts were that easy to remove
I haven’t ever looked at them, how much more of a pain are they?
Great video. I have the same truck and am considering the 6112's. What's the downside to going with the 4th highest setting on the shocks as opposed to the 3rd like you did?
I am not sure there is any downside, I was just trying to keep the spring rate not TOO firm even though it probably isnt a huge difference between the two settings. Also I didnt want to risk going to tall in the front end and having the rear end looking like it was squatting. I like keeping the front of the truck a LITTLE lower for the sake of how it will sit loaded.
I have mine on the 5th setting (for a Tacoma) it’s not recommended to do so with a 2wd it’s a harsher ride which it is
@@codyniemeyer57 what do you have in the rear and did you ever go back to the 3&4 settings
@@Zo_bomaye I have a camper shell (I have a long bed) so I put the icon 3 pack add a leaf in the rear it sits dead level and I never went down from the 5th setting. I would like to I just don’t have the time or motivation to change the perch setting
Do you think the 5160 is worth the extra money over the 5100 for the rear of a truck?
I'm trying to debate on which I should go with in my 2017 Ram 1500.
The Great Empire!! What’s the price difference today?
Gears & Gadgets
It's about a $230 difference
The pricing will be for pairs.
5100 - $168.08
5160 - $398.18
Hey bud you ever get it install on your ram?
@@victorortega2718
I just got the 5100s installed
@@thegreatempire3882 oh how high did you adjust the front?
These or the fox 2.0’s?
These are a 2.5" shock, where the Fox 2.0 is a 2" shock, so these will perform better in moderate speed offroad use. I think the Fox is a tad softer in the daily drive though
Why does everything see these don’t fit my 2015 gmc sierra?
Great review
Thanks I appreciate it
Awesome review, thanks for the info. I’m thinking about the same setup for my 2014 tundra. Did you replace anything else? Control arms etc? I find a lot of mixed opinions on that when lifting the front end
Mr. Bondhus2You I didn’t replace any A-Arms or anything and it worked fine.
Do the front shocks set the truck completely level?
Yes at the tallest setting
Does this combo actually lift a currently bone stock 2017 Sierra?
Yes. Each groove for the ring lifts the front a little. Probably about 2 inches at the top setting.
It also firms up the soft feeling of the stock strut.
Do they sell this for a 9in lift kit ?
Wore face mask being cautious but working around a truck and tools in sandals lol way to bold man I’m scared for my toes
I wore sandals because my garage was well over 115 degrees. I wore a facemark because if a compressed spring blows, I would prefer not to take a nut or bolt through my head immediately ending my life. I would rather sever my toe than lose an eye or die kind of calculation. The heat in Arizona forces you to make some different kinds of calculations.
Would you recommend these for a non 4 wheel drive? Looking for better comfort on my 2015 Sierra.
Absolutely
What year is your truck?
Why did you take the old coil over apart if you had new set
You need the factory top strut mounts to re-use on the 6112
is it worth buying new top hats for those while they are out?
Depending on age, mileage and amount of rust it might be a good idea. Get a new spring isolator if you do get new top hats.
Depends I guess. For me no but I could maybe understand why you might.
How are the rears on a washboard road. I have the 5100’s on my Silverado 2500hd and considering the 5160.
I have never run the 5100’s so I would have a hard time comparing the two but I will say the 5160’s are incredible on washboard roads.
how are the 5100s on washboard roads? I am thinking of putting those in before I saw this video. Most of the campsites I wish to access will have stretches of washboard roads.
Do you need an alignment after installing the front shocks?
Atypical Gamer formal official answer is yes. Informal shadetree mechanic answer, I didn’t and haven’t noticed any difference but my tires are also already relatively end of life so I wasn’t too worried about it. Truck still tracks straight.
Any time you touch suspension you need to do an alignment. If not you can prematurely fail things like tires, ball joints etc over time.
Dalton Woods 100% correct.
unfortunately Bilstein are unable to fulfill the many orders they have on Back order, i've had front shocks on order for 2 months, with no guarantee as to when they will be available!
Really? Where did you order them from?
@@GearsGadgets
I ordered them from Summit Racing, back in October...
Still haven’t received them . But in last few days I’ve called Bilstein, emailed them and called several of their major distributors across the US for anyone that might have 2 flipping front shocks for my GMC 2500 HD, none to be found anywhere. Factories apparently had been shut down and seemingly can’t produce enough to fill back orders, Bilstein today suggested I call 4 wheel parts - which I did had one young man said they are expected a shipment of 200, but they had back orders of over 350 already.
Lady at Bilstein said they had been behind production since March.
I regret installing the Bilsteins on my truck rear as now I can’t get the front to complete the project.
Don’t want mix-match sets.
Some body can help me where I can order this set to my 2015 silverado?
We have them and other Bilstein options here - www.shocksurplus.com/search?view=shop&q=silverado+6112#/filter:tags_vehicle_year:2015/filter:tags_vehicle_make:Chevrolet/filter:veh_model_metafiled:Silverado$25201500
Hey brother just installed the same setup on my 2018 lzt 4x4 .. after 1k miles I have noticed a more floatyness /bouncyness in the front mostly specially going 70 ish on higway roads when going over regular uneven road per say ... did you ever experience something similar ?? I would think these would of have made stiffer ride but feels softer per say.
I have mine set to the 3rd setting as well..
Tires are inflated to 45psi ... trailboss rims and tire setup ...
Could psi make a difference ??
I didn't have anything like that. Not sure what's up with that.
45 seems high. What pressure is listed on the door jamb?
I have 5100s on mine and first week it rode like a dream and than after that it seemed hard idk mostly more spring than shock working don't like how it rides going to change to some fox shocks
@@wacas24that’s really interesting, my experiences was the opposite. 07 sierra and I really enjoy the 5100s, they shine bright on the bouncy interstate going over transitions and bridges.
So whats the magic in these shocks?
Long and short of it... more fluid, run cooler, and NOT the horribly riding OEM Ranchos. All around better ride quality on the highway, off road, and in parking lots hitting speed bumps.
Say Frankenstein. Now say Einstein . Now say Bilstein. Pass it on. Thanks.
Except it is a German company and “st” in German is pronounced “sht” so while I’m not from Germany I do try my best to pronounce things correctly so whereas my pronunciation is likely incorrect, yours is as well. Anyway, pronunciation police are one of my least favorite kinds of people however as a fellow GSP owner, your GSP icon softens the blow slightly. I classify debatable word pronunciation comments about as fun and intriguing as random strangers thinking hot or cold observations are worthy of conversation.
It’s like "Porsh" vs. "Porsha.” One is right, and the other is lazy American phonetic English.
the lift of the truck is same for front and rear?
Yes the lift is consistent.
Do these coil overs level your truck out? Looks nice? I currently have a leveling kit so was wondering if I’d use the puck with these or if I wouldn’t need them anymore. Thanks
Yes they do
and do i need to upgrade my upper arm control with that configuration?
I did not need to upgrade my UCA, I am not 100% sure on if that statement is universal with all configurations and I wouldn’t want to speak out of turn.
UCA has to do with the height not shocks....if your lifting front 2" or more a UCA is necessary for comfort and longevity......
Beautifully done!!! 👏 and WELL MADE VIDEO!!! 📹
Thanks Preston, I appreciate that.
Will this same set fit an 09 escalade esv?! I know GM 1500 trucks n suv’s are literally generic as fuck lol!!.. but bilstein fitment guide list absolutely nothing for my truck...
I am not sure and I wouldnt want to steer you wrong. I am not familiar with the suspension setup on an 09
@@GearsGadgets it’s literally exact same underpinnings of a silverado 1500 except without the leaf springs
Wears a face shield but also wears flip flops. Lmfaooooo.
Measured risk mitigation
this blister 6112 fit at the GMC Sierra 1500 2004 RWD?
I am not 100% on that. You will have to check their website.
Should have done new upper mounts...
Why is that?
You would not have had to compress the old strut. Plus those things wear out over time...
so your truck doesn't shake a lot anymore with the new drive shaft? I put those same shocks in the front of my 18 GMC Z71 but I kept the stock spring. What is the difference between the z71 spring and the Bilstein one?
The shaking was drastically reduced nearly down to nothing with the new driveshaft. I’m not sure what the difference in spring rate is between the Bilsteins and OEM. I just trusted Bilstein engineers more than GM’s lol. How do they run with the GM spring?
@@GearsGadgets big improvement! I'm no longer hitting the headliner with my head after hitting large dips and bumps on the road. The rebound was terrible with the stock struts.
Z71 twin tube shocks are probably the worst shock on any truck....fact you have to pay extra is ubsurd....stock AC Delcos are better and they arent even that good.....I would get a Z71 for other benefits but would yank this shocks immediately off.......anything is an improvement over them.......TB Ranchos are monotube and are decent......had 2 or 3 sets of Bilsteins and no complaints.....should have done this along time ago my friend!
I agree. The Bilsteins are awesome.
i think u installed the wrong way, the sticker should befacing out
What’s up with the flip flops?
I like to party
Man you’re paranoid about the spring based on high school shop rumors. Fear mongering makes people afraid of taking on a project.
Yeah the stiffer the spring the more force it goes with. With that said a cars struts assembly from a civic, bmw 3 series and a mazda cx5 the ive loosed them all with no compressor and it wasn’t like gun just a little squirt
People who insist on pronouncing "Bilstein" wrong crack me up.
I give up on caring which way it is pronounced or even giving people who care for more than a half a second any level of respect. Who really cares.
@@GearsGadgets You can't be serious. There is a correct way to say it and it's quite simple to determine what that is (by following how the company itself pronounces it), but if willful ignorance is more your style, have at it. Good grief.
@@dlg5485 call it willful ignorance or pretentious comment. I go back and forth because no matter which way you say it either in the German proper or American English phonetic, some dope will comment that you’re saying it wrong. If you watch videos on Bilsteins own RUclips channel pronunciation is all over the map. Gotta love the “Ackchyually you’re wrong” people in life. So yes, I am serious, I am 100% comfortably over the poindexter self righteous comments like this.