If the XREAS (monotube) shocks are well-made (i assume they are), then they should last a long time. Monotube shocks tend to last much longer than twin-tubes. Bilsteins supposedly last a lifetime.

I put bilsteins on my 99 runner with a 2.5 inch rev tek lift. Since I've had the lift, my front cv boots have ripped twice. I'm assuming the rips are related to the lift. What I'm confused about is that I seem to be the only one having this problem. I see a lot of 4 runners and tacomas with the same lift but with no damage to the boot. Any help anyone can give would be appreciated!!!

Hi, i was looking through the old posts and sa this. I understand about the sacrificing through changing shocks. But I do have one question/comment.. .

Has anyone tried the Ranch RSX 9000 or The Procomp MX-6?

These are both adjustable shocks through selectors on the actual shock. i guess it might be somewhat of a hassle to change the settings (have to reach up into each wheel well, but wouldnt this way you be able to select super soft for hardcore off roading, and very firm for performance street handling and then somewhare in-between for daily driving? I was kind of thinking of getting a set of these, but after reading Thais opinion on aftermarket shocks i am curious wether its worth it... Thanks Joe...

Oh heres the links..

Pro Comp MX-6 - http://www.explorerprocomp.com/shocks_mx6.php

Rancho RS9000X
http://www.gorancho.com/products/shocks/RS9000X.stm

Rancho also offers a remote control system for their shocks to adjust from the cab...

http://www.gorancho.com/products/acc.../RS9000RCX.stm


Also, what im not sure about is what size would i need for the 2005 SR5 4X4? Its not offered but I was kind of under the assumption that size didnt really matter as long as it is close to stock as the shocks will compress or expand to fit? Thansk again

The Rancho's are an inferior shock to the Bilsteins. Went through this on the TDR site with the big 3/4 and 1 ton Dodge turbo diesel trucks. Everyone that bought the Rancho 9000's finally came around to order the Bilsteins. Don't know anything about the Pro-Comps.

If I go with Bils I'm also gonna pony up the money for PP 1" lift springs which makes the Bils easier to live with sine the Bils/OEM spring combo doesn't really mesh together well. I'm also considering the OME setup since they cost the same pretty much but the OME setup does have a slightly better on-road ride.

You could always have Bilstein re-valve the shocks to match your springs. I don't know how much they charge now but a few years ago, it was about $65/shock.

My M3 has Bilsteins and Eibach springs and the ride is very stiff. Great for the track but not so much for the crappy roads of NY/NJ.

So what shocks should i go with for not a stiff ride? Im about to upgrade to a set of 22" Ziniks and want a some what better ride than i get now with stock shocks and D-load rating BFG ATs

22" Ziniks...those are rims, right? If so, then ARE YOU CRAZY?!! Your 3rd gen will literally bounce down the highway!

If you're not joking, then i would consider getting rid of BFG AT KO and get a lightweight tire. I would consider Monroe shocks if you're not happy with OEM shocks.

I was on a tight budget and my suspension was getting tired so I just went with new OEM '99 coils and shocks and this was making sure I got the taller '99 coils and with the off roading I do I've got no issues but a 2" spacer would help out in areas. With the taller tires and coils I have just over 11" at the rear diff.

hahaha no no, im getting some low profile tires too and saving the BFGs and wheels for snow.

so monroe will give it a somewhat decent ride? my OEM shocks in the rear are shot. Im going right now to get it diganosed but im about 99% sure the shocks are shot, theres a clanking noise everytime i hit a bump and it sounds like im bottoming out.

The clanking could be a lot of things. The shock bushings may be bad. Your rear coil springs may be bad.

I'm installing Monroe Sensa-trac and heavy duty coils on a Pathfinder this weekend. The pathfinder does a lot of hauling and towing.

The Sensa-tracs are a good choice with the additional weight of your system.

I went to have it checked out by my mechanic and in conclusion i need new struts up front and new shocks in the rear.

Also after everyone has told me i need new and bigger slotted, drilled rotors and brakes for 22" wheels, my mechanic compared wieghts between what im running now and that and there about the same weight so nothing changing with my brakes.

When we sit down to discuss shocks and struts, what are some comfort ride names i should suggest?

If comfort is what you want, then you can go with OEM or Monroe Sensatrac.