When I purchased my truck, the P/O had replaced the shocks with Monroe something or others... they are at least a couple of years old at this point, and they are getting tired. Some recent, heavily loaded road trips and camping trips have made this abundantly clear!
I was originally considering going with the OEM Toyota replacements. However, I am not counting on any of the Monroe mounting hardware being compatible. Replacing four shocks and all the associated mounting hardware is looking to be about $500 if bought online (Olathe, McGeorge), or about $700 if bought locally at Mr. T. On the other hand, I can get a set of four Bilstein 4600s--with all hardware--for $436 (although they appear to be backordered at the moment).
Pros/cons of Bilstein vs OEM Toyota? I've had Bilsteins in the past on Bimmers, and I've been very satisfied with them. Are their truck shocks equally good? I don't mind a little increase in stiffness (not a significant increase, though), and more longevity/durability is also a plus.
Also, with 243K, I think my rear springs are getting tired. I am correct that folks use the Old Man Emu 2860s in conjunction with OEM/stock height shocks for a little extra rear load carrying capacity with no lift?
I was originally considering going with the OEM Toyota replacements. However, I am not counting on any of the Monroe mounting hardware being compatible. Replacing four shocks and all the associated mounting hardware is looking to be about $500 if bought online (Olathe, McGeorge), or about $700 if bought locally at Mr. T. On the other hand, I can get a set of four Bilstein 4600s--with all hardware--for $436 (although they appear to be backordered at the moment).
Pros/cons of Bilstein vs OEM Toyota? I've had Bilsteins in the past on Bimmers, and I've been very satisfied with them. Are their truck shocks equally good? I don't mind a little increase in stiffness (not a significant increase, though), and more longevity/durability is also a plus.
Also, with 243K, I think my rear springs are getting tired. I am correct that folks use the Old Man Emu 2860s in conjunction with OEM/stock height shocks for a little extra rear load carrying capacity with no lift?