This is actually for my buddy with his 96 tacoma (4x4 with 3.6 engine)
He is looking to replace the shocks as they are worn after 140K miles.
I had told him that I had bilsteins, but they were a little stiff, and might be too much for him.

He found that there are two types of bilsteins, One is a monotube (46mm) single piston with an internal spring assist. The other Bilstein shock is also monotube (36mm) single piston with no internal spring assist.

So, what would you guys suggest for a daily driver, that will probably never be lifted, and 95% of driving will be regular on road commuting.
Now, he might (big maybe here) eventually get a winch...not sure how that would affect anything....

suggestions?

 

Could quite possible be, one part no. is for the front and one for the rear. You didn't provide any part no.'s or a source for where he found this information either...so please, more details.

-Ted

 

I believe there is the Billstien HD's (yellow/blue), and the 5100 series (zinc plated/chrome finish). Not sure which matches which description though.

 

Okay, well I'm asking him for a better description...

I guess we are looking for anyone with experience with both for comparison sake.

thx

 

I think you'll find enough people here who do have experience with all kinds of different shock's. The thing here is; they need to know which shocks exactly you want a comparison on. I know you're already doing it, but some part no.'s would go a long way here. And some pictures too....we like picture's....and then, watch the flood gate's open with people's opinion.

-Ted

 

I have had the same problem in the past with stiff shocks. In my opinion with a mini truck the only way to go is with something that is adjustable. I currently run Rancho 9000 and had to adjust them 3 times but am now very happy with them.

 

okay, got this email from him...

Here is the link to the Auto-zone parts list with the struts I mentioned below:

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par.../N-j5gg6Z8oxxw

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...j?pageNumber=5

All the ones I mentioned are for the front of a 1996 Tacoma V6.

Bilstein monotube (46mm) single piston with an internal spring assist is part #24022842.

Bilstein shock monotube (36mm) single piston with no internal spring assist is part #24184991.


Gabriel brand dual internal tube design and no internal spring assist is part #G51477

 

If the pictures are correct the second one won't bolt up, that looks to be for the older 2wd trucks. I assume the spring assist means that the spring attaches to the shock.