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Thread: Not impressed with new shocks. Anyone else?

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    Registered User
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    Not impressed with new shocks. Anyone else?

    I just installed a new set of Hotchkis/Bilstein shocks on my 03 HD. For the amount of money for these shocks (over $500) I'm not impressed. In my opinion, the truck doesn't ride any better. Could the shocks have been installed incorrectly? Is it just the way these trucks ride? Or is it just these crappy Illinois roads? Can anyone suggest another brand? Your comments & opinions are appreciated!!
    Last edited by snickers9170; 08-09-2015 at 03:18 PM.

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    Lightning spec Bilsteins here, no complaints.

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    Lightning spec Bilsteins here as well. As per Ryan SOCAL ! no complaints

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    Worlds Shiniest HD F-150!
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    OP How do you compare the ride to "stock" shocks?

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    I have both types, the Hotchkis L spec, and the regular L spec Bilstiens. The Hotchkis were spendy yes, but they are a sportier speced shock, the valving is tighter and hence makes the ride a little harsher. The regular L spec Bilstien are softer valved which in turn makes for a more supple ride.

    What is it you are looking for out of your truck's ride quality?

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    Oki 916's Dad NHTOC #103
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    I've got the L specs Bilstein and Hotchkiss sport suspension no complaints on the ride and it handles like a sportscar in the turns
    Slick
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    I also have the L Spec Bilstiens. So much better than stockers.

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    Where about in Illinois?

    #8022 L&S oil separator, color matched tailgate handle and license plate bulb covers . Fog light mod ,Venom mod , JLP CAI and JLP rear shackles for a 3" drop out back. More to come.......SOLD ...........no more to come.

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    These trucks don't ride like Lincoln's or Cadillacs that's for sure!

    I have the Hotchkis TVS with Bilsteins also and it is a tuned sport suspension which exerts zero body roll.....except for mine through the corners!

    Mods=L&S Oil Sep, Blackwood trim & mirror caps, Navi ant' base, E-brake pedal, CAI, C&L Intake & Plenum, 95mm MAF tube, SBTB, 170 T-Stat, Predator+RWTD custom tune, 8# lower, PG Ti900.7 amp, JLA XR570-CXi & Stealthbox, FTVB, Finned Trans Pan, Line of Fire LED, J-Jent Grille, RotorPro Dimpled & Slotted rotors, LED taillights, chrome door strikes, billet locks & coat hangers, ChickenEars Engine Billet package #1&2+door sills, Metco billet aux idler bracket & pulleys, LFP E-Fan, Xenarc HID heads, clear corners, Roush HID fogs, Bedrug, L' 3rd, Kenwood DDX-7017 DVD+TV+Sirrius+RevCam, Lotek dual pillar pod with AutoMeter boost gauge & DynoJet WBC, fog switch mod, UPR billet window switches and door locks, FAST overlays, LFP 58" bars, Hotchkis TVS, Bilsteins, DblG Panhard, Cervinis Cobra R hood, BFG T/A KDW 2 tires, Hawk Ceramic pads, MGP caliper covers.

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    B.O.B.-Peoria area

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    Sounds like I may have bought the wrong shocks!! Where can I buy the L spec Bilsteins? Price & part numbers for front & rear would be helpful too. Thanks!!

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    So Cal Waite-I'm looking for a smoother ride. With these shocks, I feel every pothole & bump. The truck rides like a buckboard wagon!!

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    SoCal Waite (08-13-2015)

  14. #13
    Worlds Shiniest HD F-150!
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    Quote Originally Posted by snickers9170 View Post
    Sounds like I may have bought the wrong shocks!! Where can I buy the L spec Bilsteins? Price & part numbers for front & rear would be helpful too. Thanks!!
    Here's what I found...L spec vs Screw spec Bilstein shocks. Hope This helps.

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    Worlds Shiniest HD F-150!
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    Here's another thread.

    Bilstein L-spec part #

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    Thanks Merlin👍

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