So, as my mechanic was installing tp spacers on my '08 (just getting rid of the rake), he discovered dry and torn cv boots; my 2 hour bill suddenly ballooned to a 3.5 hour job, plus axles...BUT...when they had that done and were re-installing the struts, he mistakenly split the line on my XREAS system, blowing the whole thing.

Here's a sign of a great garage---they called me, owned that it was their fault, and offered to cover the replacement---with conventional stuff. Yeah, they spun it like they "could" get the XREAS but definitely tried to convince me otherwise. I knew why; cost, but I was fine with it. After all, it's got 122k on it, right? Gotta respect a garage with integrity. As a result, I get the spacers in, new axles, and new shocks and struts all the way around for about $500.

The question----huge differences in handling/response/etc. by going with conventional stuff instead?

that worked out well for you id say. have them get 5100s and some new springs and ditch the spacers while youre at it

I think you made out great b/c if they would've replaced the XREAS system, it would have grenaded as well in time. These damn things don't last past 100K miles. There are exceptions, but they are few.

so if the system is opened its garbage?

"mistakenly split the line" if it rusted apart thats one thing another if he disconnected it. i recently tackled this job without xreas and it was a total pita to remove strut that wasnt even oem and rusted solid in there. ended up cutting everything out.

being that your in michigan, mileage and xreas failing in general sounds like a good deal

I wish on the Bilsteins....I mentioned that to him, but there aren't any Bilstein dealers close by, so it'd take a few days, and they already had the whole front end torn apart. I'm pretty appreciative that they were so good about covering it, so I think it's getting KYB...like others said, the XREAS was gonna go sometime anyway.

You could overnight some via Amazon...

Honestly, I'd ditch the spacers and get the bilsteins. A few extra days wil l be worth it and if you have to spend a little extra it will certainly be worth the cost.

those replacement KYB are actually awesome too though. i just got rid of them to lift with 5100s almost reluctantly because they ride great and they will give you a +1" in front too. itll be level after. check out one of my started threads, 'does my truck look stock height?'

Would definitely recommend Bilsteins/stiffer springs if you're getting rid of XREAS. There's gonna be a decent drop in handling from what you're used to without the XREAS.

Another vote for the Bilsteins. I know they want your truck out of the garage but you’re in this situation now so don’t settle. Really. The difference would be worth the wait and like it was mentioned, you can easily overnight the parts. Truth is, you’re in this situation because of the shop so they have to be willing to make sure you’re happy.


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i agree with the above for sure. buy the kit on amazon and have it 1 dayed.

I installed 5th gen springs and 5100's and could not be happier. the on road handling is different than the Xres, but after a few months i have zero regrets.

5100s and ditch the spacers...no reason to save 2 days on something that you will be experiencing every time you drive the vehicle. Do it right once and don't look back. Trust me, you won't miss those 2 extra days of vehicle downtime.

anyone have a price and link for bilstein 5100s?

Amazon.