Bilstein 7100 size and lift with 35s (1 Viewer)

[SWCruiser]

I currently have OME heavies and run 285s but looking to move up to 35s, As for other specs:

dual batteries
winch
front bumper
drawers (self-made)
subtank
caster bushings

My question is is it worthwhile to move into a higher lift? SLEE 4", OME Js, and then have to spend on resolving any vibration issues, etc. (currently dont have any vibration problems)? or will the heavies suffice. I do mostly expedition stuff and really not into rockcrawling unless i need to get somewhere to hunt, fish, backpack. Greater capability is welcome but probably not a requirement.
I will also be putting bilstein 7100s on. if i stick with the current setup am I looking at 10 or 12 in? are they going to be the same all the way around? it seems some are running the longer ones in the rear. Any reason to keep them the same? experiences and opinions on the valving is appreciated. I have read posts but it seems like poeple running the 7100s were still testing their options. anyone settled on what they like?

heres a pic of the current rig

 

[Nay]

I don't see any reason to change your lift unless you want different springs for performance reasons.

As for the shocks, you need to measure the mount to mount distance for both front and rear. From that, subtract 2.5" for stud to eye adapters for the front (upper and lower adapters) and 1.25" in the rear (only an upper adapter).

Then look at your target shock lengths and make sure you have about 50/50 up/down travel.

To give an example, if your mount to mount distance is 24" up front and you subtract 2.5" then you'll have 21.5" mount to mount.

Your typical 10" shock is 26" fully extended and 16" compressed. In the example above, you would have 5.5" of up travel and 4.5" down.

I can tell you that 12" is way too long for your setup and there's no reason to modify mounts for a longer shock for your usage. I suspect your choices will be between the 7100 standard 10" and the short body 10".

Good luck

 

[SWCruiser]

Nay,
Thanks for the info. i would prefer to not change the springs so glad i can use what i have. Im back and forth between AZ and NY and unfortunately not with my lx. Was hoping i could order them first but looks like i will need to wait to measure.

 

[kidglove13]

X2 get a good 10 inch travel shock it should suit your needs nicely
I definitly like the eye to eye conversion brakets
I dont think you need to change your springs
If the truck handles the weight you have now and you like the way the springs perform there is no need to change springs
A good set of shocks will go a long way for your intended use

 

[SWCruiser]

Thanks

Roger,
Thanks for the input.. looks like it will probably be the 10". Anyone know if there is a reason to get/not get the short body?

 

[Nay]

Roger,
Thanks for the input.. looks like it will probably be the 10". Anyone know if there is a reason to get/not get the short body?

Sure - you'd get them if they are the right extended and compressed length after you measure

 

[1303]

I am contemplating putting on the Bilstein 7100 for my 3" lifed '96 FZJ80 and would like to know if the mounting adapters are available for sale anywhere.

 

[DiscoveredLC]

My current setup is 2.5" mediums with a 30mm OME spacer up front.

Running 12" short bodies valved at 400/100 rear 360/80 front. Here's the mounts I built for mine...

https://forum.ih8mud.com/80-series-tech/463145-7100-shock-mounts.html

I have some flex shots in the last page or two on my build thread in my signature.

Id go with the 12", not the 10's...

 

[1303]

Are there any bolt-on ones?

 

[kbahus]

This thread has some good info if you have not seen it: https://forum.ih8mud.com/80-series-tech/157677-slee4-1-w-bilstein-7100s.html