TruckSpring Times

Bilstein shocks are one of the best shock absorbers you can buy and it’s no secret. The problem lately has been a large increase in back orders and long lead times on popular Bilstein shock absorbers.

Bilstein announced today that they are taking new measures to combat the long back order times.

According to Steven Beaty, President of Bilstein of America Aftermarket & Motorsports, “First, our plan includes an immediate investment in additional manufacturing equipment totaling over one million dollars. Second, we have hired additional labor and transitioned to a 4 shift production model effectively operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The combination of these two actions will start to deliver increased output over the next several weeks.”

At Michigan Truck Spring, we carry a large inventory of Bilstein shock absorbers in our warehouse. We have noticed the increased lead times and are hopeful the increased production helps correct the problem. Feel free to call us at 1-800-358-4751 or email us a truckspring@truckspring.com if you need to check inventory or lead times on any Bilstein shock absorbers. 

Does it matter which way I mount my Bilstein shocks?

Bilstein shocks often come with the same size mounting eyes on each end. We often get asked "Can I mount them with the shock boot up, does it matter which side is facing up?"

The majority of Bilstein shocks mount with the boot on the top of the shock. Bilstein does have some shocks that do have the boot on the bottom of the shock and the same size mounting eyes on each end. As a general rule with all Bilstein shocks, you should pay attention to the label. Bilstein tech advises that you should always mount your shocks so that the Bilstein logo is right-side up.

Above is Bilstein rear shock 24-186742 for the 1999-2010 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra. The shock has 14.1 mm mounting eyes on each end. The correct way to install it is with the boot on top and the logo facing the correct way.

Above is Bilstein rear shock 33-187419 for the 2009-2013 Ford F-150. The shock has 12mm eyes on each end, so it could be mounted either way. The correct way to mount it is as shown with the boot down and the label facing so it is not upside down.

So, If you are not sure which way is up on your shocks or wonder if you can mount them either way, always look at the Bilstein logo. If it is upside down, so are your shocks!

Bilstein shocks are put through a rigorous testing process before they put into production and it shows on the road. Yes, they do cost more than your standard replacement shock you can find at any auto parts store, but the old saying “You get what you pay for” has never rung more true.

Bilstein shocks are found in the world’s elite brands and vehicles, including BMW, Audi, Ferrari, Jaguar, Porsche and more. This high quality is shown in all of their shocks. So if you’re looking for new shocks on anything from a mini-cooper to full size pickup or motorhome, Bilstein has you covered. They create the right driving experience for every vehicle.

The same technology that is used in their motorsports and original equipment manufacturer process is also used in the development of Bilstein truck shocks. Take a moment to watch the below video to get a behind the scenes look and some of the testing Bilstein does in the development of their shock absorbers and struts.

You can order Bilstein shocks from an autorized warehouse distributor by calling 1-800-358-4751 or online at TruckSpring.com

Are you looking to improve the performance of the suspension on your SUV or truck? These vehicles, with their larger tires, greater overall weight and increased load carrying capacity, place extra demand on a shock absorber’s damping ability. The Bilstein B6 Heavy Duty Monotube gas pressure shock absorbers are the ideal solution to this problem. On or off the road, loaded or unloaded, these shocks provide improved handling and stability which delivers better control, precise handling and ultimate performance without sacrificing comfort. These shocks offer a super damping ability that makes them ideal who needs superior performance and an exceptionally smooth street ride.

Why choose Bilstein Shocks? Not all shocks are created equal. With Bilstein shocks, the difference is in the unique design. Bilstein shocks employ a Monotube design which is technically superior to conventional shock designs. Conventionally designed shocks trap heat within the body of the shock which over time causes a reduction in performance and eventually will cause the shock to fail. Bilstein’s Monotube gas charged design allows excessive heat from the oil to transfer to the outer surface, where it can dissipate more efficiently. Further, the Bilstein Monotube design uses gas pressure on the dividing piston which exerts pressure on the oil column to prevent aeration and viscosity loss. This provides the superior qualities that allow this shock to maintain full damping characteristics under all conditions.

We recently installed the Bilstein B6 24-060813 (F4-BE5-6081-H0 & F4-BE5-6081-H2) front shock absorbers and 24-060820 (F4-BE5-6082-H0) rear shock absorbers on a 2001 Chevy 1500 HD 4x4 pickup truck. These shock absorbers can also be used in 1999 – 2010 Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500 HD & 2500 HD 4x4 pickups, or 1999 – 2004 Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 2500 4x4 pickups.

The preexisting front and rear shocks being badly worn and they were showing signs of damage caused by inadequate heat distribution. Furthermore, they were lacking the quality and unique design found in Bilstein’s products. Consequently, the performance of the vehicle was suffering, especially on rough roads and uneven terrain, as the truck became difficult to control when driven in these conditions.

Once we hit the road with the new Bilstein shocks the difference was immediately noticeable. The Silverado comfortably breezed over even the largest potholes, due to the Bilstein B6 shocks’s ability to react almost instantly to changes in the road. Not only did the Bilstein B6 shocks create a more comfortable ride, but it made the vehicle more stable and easier to handle by reducing the amount of bouncing and sway.

The Bilstein B6 Heavy Duty Monotube gas pressure shock absorbers are an effective and efficient way to improve the performance of your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra.

If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to call 1-800-358-4751 to speak with our experts in truck suspension parts.