2wd Shock/spring Recommendations?

[trexoffroad]

I have a 2wd V8, 2004…I want to replace all of the shocks and didn’t realize beforehand that the 2wd is not always easy to find. Here my issues:
1) I don’t want to lift the truck. A “little” in the front might be acceptable but I need my elderly mom to be able to get in and out so the higher it goes, the more difficulty she may have
2) I do not want to use generic shocks or even Monroe, I’ve not had good luck with those.
3) I like Bilstein but what I read infers that they will cause a lift on 2wd models. Is it because of the shock design? Or is it a result of the spring they use for 4wd? Last thing I want to do is stiffen the ride and make it miserable.
4) I could purchase just shocks and use my stock springs but I suspect my springs have been replaced with no name springs when they did the shocks. It bottoms out just going over parking lot speed bumps.

So, all that to ask: has anyone with a v8 2wd installed Bilstein shocks (5100 or lower) and what was result?
Thanks!

 

[TahoeZ]

The Bilsteins will lift the front, as the springs are longer and slightly firmer. Bilsteins overall provide a much firmer ride. Some like it, as you get less body roll and better handling but you sacrifice the cush feel of a softer spring and shock.

KYB is generally the best option for a reasonably-priced shock and spring that is closer to stock feel. They don't make an assembly for the front for RWD 4runners though.

OEM/Toyota is going to be the softest ride.