The best shocks for your truck will guarantee a smooth and hassle-free traveling experience. With the right shocks for your truck, you can say goodbye to collisions with your roof and dashboard every time you hit a bump or pothole, or make an unexpected stop. You will even be better able to control your truck as you drive, with guaranteed improved performance on rough terrains.
Picking the best shocks for trucks can be challenging due to the variety of options available. This guide compares different features of some of the leading shocks available to help you make the right choice.
Top 5 Shock reviews
1. Bilstein (24-186742) 5100 Series Shock
Bilstein is famous for the quality and durability of their automobile parts. The company continues to produce proprietary suspension technology and is one of the leading manufacturers of monotube technology. The monotube-based 24-186742 5100 series rear shock absorber is a testament to this high quality. The model features the Bilsten’s unbeatable finish. It offers a great fit for heavy stock vehicles, especially perfect for your lifted truck.
Features and specs
The zinc exterior rear shock absorber measures 28.7*3.4*2.8 inches and weighs 5.75 pounds. It has a compact design without any modification which ensures easy installation. The rear shock absorber features a monotube design for its rod, which makes it suitable for heavy-duty tasks and rough terrains. It is also nitrogen pressurized, which works to limit the likelihood of shock fluid foaming and the prevalence of shock fade.
The Bilstein 5100 series rear shock is ideal for use on tough terrains. The monotube of this shock absorber will guarantee better performance than twin-tube shock absorbers because it provides higher damping power, which facilitates better output under sterner conditions.
While some customers complained of a reduction and performance after very heavy-duty use for about 15,000 miles, the rear shock is a great fit for your truck. The shock absorber is capable of meeting heavy demands for both on and off-road terrains. With proper maintenance, the Bilstein 24-186742 rear shock will work out just fine for your vehicle.
- Lifetime warranty
- The monotube design offers a standard fade-free performance
- A great alternative to coil spring spacers
- Appealing chrome finish and overall great build
- Compatible with your vehicle’s front spring coils
- Difficult to install without a guide
- The face decreased performance due to consistent heavy-duty use for about 15,000 miles
2. Monroe 58640 Shock Absorber
Monroe offers a versatile line up of replacement suspension parts that will restore your vehicle’s ideal capability and handling. The brand offers specialized shocks, such as the 58640, which guarantee great heavy-duty performance. If you are looking for an ideal shock absorber for consistent heavy-duty hauling, the Monroe 58640 shocks maybe will satisfy your needs.
Features and specs
The Monroe 58640 weighs 11.02 pounds and measures 2.95*7.2*3.7 inches. You can use it as either a front or rear shock absorber. It can sustain additional weights of up to 1100 pounds without any change in ride height. The model features a heavy gauge spring, which is calibrated for extra control and comfort even on the roughest terrain. The shock absorber will adjust to meet the demands of a change in terrain seamlessly, allowing for complete control even when you are traveling over multi-terrain journeys. It is suitable for low trailers and light trucks.
It has a good build that supports a powerful performance. The heavyset spring, which boosts overall performance, is sturdy and durable. It supports the model’s full displaced valving, which allows for a swift adjustment to maintain ride comfort and control when a driver switches terrains or picks up an additional load. It also features a Fluon banded piston, which completely seals off the pressure tube to provide consistent control. The Monroe 58640 also features a specially modified weather fluid that works to provide smooth rod reaction by reducing the likelihood of friction.
While some customers have found it a little tough to install, it should offer no problem when done according to the guide. You can also view DIY tutorials to help set up the shock absorber and set out on your drive.
- Improved handling and control
- Great design and features
- Suitable for prolonged heavy-duty use
- Difficult to install without any experience
3. Gabriel 49235 Hijackers Air-adjustable Shocks
Built by the 110-year old brand, the Gabriel 49235 air-adjustable hijackers are the latest suspension products under the 50-year old HiJacker family. Like other products in the line, Gabriel’s 49235 shocks guarantee high-quality output. Besides, they are also very tough and aggressive, so they will retain their dependability across all terrains and under heavy-duty use.
Features and specs
The Gabriel 49235 HiJackers are one of the best known air-adjustable shocks around. They are suitable for towing heavy loads and roughing it out on tough terrains, although they are not as ideal for long term heavy duty use as other shocks in the list. The shocks will support up to 1100 pounds in additional weight per pair, making them just the right fit for your truck. The superbly finished chromium piston is guaranteed to remain corrosion-free, regardless of your environment of use.
The model weighs 12 pounds and measures 19.5*6.6*4.1 inches. It is very easy to install and use, with truck owners only required to air them out before engaging in heavy-duty work. They provide a heavy-duty output and will work well under any terrain with proper airing out. You can even customize your performance by readjusting the shocks to meet the demands of your activities. The 49235 HiJacker will also offer durable performance, thanks to its drawn-over-mandrel tubing that works to minimize internal wear.
If you are planning to install this model without any professional help, you need to consider your vehicle’s compatibility beforehand to avoid any problems. It is more suitable for those who have experience with air-adjustable shocks.
- Lower risk of bottoming out
- Great chrome finish and unique overall build
- Leakproof seal to extend durability
- Easy installation and air pressure adjustment
- Might require regular airing up
- Not a compact fit with some vehicles
4. Monroe 911262 Reflex Truck Shock Absorber
Monroe offers high-end suspension parts, which guarantee top quality and output. The 911262 reflex truck shock absorber is the second replacement suspension part in this list because the brand is just that hard to beat. This model, which is specially designed for heavy-duty trucks, will guarantee safety, handling, and comfort regardless of the terrain.
Features and specs
The Monroe 911262 weighs 3.84 pounds and measures 12.2*6.5*5.1 inches. While it is lightweight compared to other models on this list, it guarantees comfortable and auto-adjusting performance when in use. The patented ASD technology on this model will sense acceleration and adjust automatically to improve ride characteristics such as handling and safety, ensuring a comfortable ride. It can also automatically sense bumps in the road and adjust to absorb any impact. So this shock absorber is superior, regardless of the terrain profile.
Aside from the proprietary ASD technology, the Monroe 911262 shocks also feature a Fluon banded piston that ensures compact sealing of the pressure tube. Your shocks will not need to be replaced any time soon as the Fluon band guarantees improved durability. In addition, it also works to boost handling and control. The modified all-weather fluid reduces any likelihood of development of shock foam, as well as minimizes friction for deal rod reaction.
This shock is available in both black and silver. You should contact your seller beforehand if you have a specific color request to make sure you get the right one. However, the quality of the shock absorber will not be affected. You do need to maintain your shock absorber to avoid rusting and chipping. Overall, the output of this shock absorber makes it a great choice.
- Easy installation process
- Increased durability
- Auto-sensing ASD technology for hassle-free driving experience
- Might succumb to rust if not maintained as recommended
5. KYB 565104 MonoMax Gas-Based Shock
The Tokyo-based brand KYB is a leading producer of hydraulic automotive components. The suspension parts often borrow from its line of aircraft components, with shocks guaranteeing great performance and increased durability. The KYB 565104 Monomax gas-based shock is a well designed, heavy-duty shock absorber that is suitable for trucks. These tough truck shocks could be the solution to your heavy-duty needs.
Features and specs
The 5.7-pound KYB 565104 MonoMax shock absorber measures 26.5*3.1*3.1 inches. It features a monotube design, which offers higher capacity output than twin-tube shock absorbers. This tough shock stock can handle difficult conditions smoothly and will guarantee unrivaled stability. It guarantees up to 40% more damping power than regular stocks, which ensures improved control and handling throughout your drive.
The KYB 565104 comes with an elegant finish that is primed for durable use. The smooth zinc coating offers protection from rust, with a stainless steel piston ring that ensures standard output regardless of the conditions of use. It is additionally protected by a rubber boot, which works to seal off the shaft and keep debris and dirt from affecting the seal.
The KYB shocks will work well under any terrain, provided they are compatible with your truck. They are specially made for the increased demands of trucks on shocks, which ensures high-quality output every time. With the right installation, these shocks should offer no problem. They might be more suitable for heavy-duty work, as some users have complained of excessive stiffness when their trucks were not hauling any loads.
- Improved rebound control for rapid stops
- Quality and durable build
- Easy to install
- Includes protective rubber boot
- Up to 40% higher damping performance than stock shocks
- Some customers have reported poor service from the brand
- The load-free ride can be a little bumpy
What to Consider Before Buying Shock Absorbers for Trucks?
Are you looking for the best shocks for your truck? Here are the top features to look for in different models to determine the most suitable one for your needs.
Type of shock absorber
Your vehicle will dictate which type of sock you need. The types of shock absorbers available include heavy-duty, gas, standard, air, overload and automatic shocks. They, therefore, can generally be classified as either monotube or twin-tube shocks.
Monotube shock absorbers, which are divided into an oil and gas chamber, will balance force through the action of the rod and piston. They can be mounted upside down for a reduction in unsprung weight. Due to the constant exposure to air, they run more relaxed than twin-tube shocks.
Twin-tube shock absorbers can be gas-charged, ASD or PSD. Acceleration sensitive damping (ASD) shocks offer improved handling and control. They also feature automatic adjustment, which depends on the driving conditions. Position sensitive damping (PSD) shocks offer a balance between control and comfort by switching between soft and firm valving. Gas-charged shocks feature nitrogen compressors that prevent oil from foaming, which works to reduce fade and prevent loss of damping capability.
Depending on your model and modifications, there are a number of either monotube or twin-tube shock absorbers that could offer great value.
Your budget
The size of your car could help you determine the price of your shocks, with most trucks requiring slightly more expensive shocks. You can still access affordable, high-quality shocks that are compatible with your model. In order to pick the best affordable stock, you will need to find a selection of compatible options and determine which one offers the best value for money. If you are considering switching out all your shocks, you could look into models available in pairs for a cost-effective replacement. However, choosing by price alone could affect your ability to pick the right stock for your needs.
Your regular driving conditions
Standard shocks are limited when it comes to off-road adventures. You need heavy-duty shock absorbers to handle rough terrains, such as the uncharted off-road paths. By assessing each model’s ability to offer sustained heavy-duty performance, you may be able to find the ideal stock for you. If you are not planning to haul heavy loads for long amounts of time, all of these shocks will offer
The ease of installation
Do you plan to install your shocks or hire a professional? Some shocks are very easy to install, with simple to follow instructions provided. You could cut down on your expenditure by doing it yourself. However, some models will require modification and may require professional fitting. You may consider looking through customer experiences online to determine the best shocks in this regard.
Materials and build
Each part manufacturer will develop its own stock with a preferred range of materials, which can affect the durability. The design, while featuring certain shock standards, may also vary across manufacturers. It is important to find a shock absorber with a sturdy build and great quality materials to ensure prolonged use. The two most common materials used are aluminum and steel, with a range of coating options such as zinc and chromium. Whereas steel shocks are unadjustable and tougher to install, they offer durable use with proper maintenance.
For people with minimal experience in replacing suspension parts, these five questions could help narrow down the choice even further.
Is the shock durable?
A great shock will feature high-quality materials and build. You could look into the housing, rod quality and finish to determine the most durable option.
How is the shock’s performance?
Most leading manufacturers produce high-performance shocks that will be just right for your heavy-duty needs. You could explore customer experiences to tell these models apart on the basis of their output.
Is the shock compatible with your truck?
You should always carry out some research into a model’s compatibility to determine whether a shock can actually fit your model.
What are your driving habits?
If you use your truck for off-road exploration and hauling loads, you may consider higher output shocks. Some suspensions may be better for braking, while others could be more suited for smoother rides.
Do you need to replace all your shocks or just the front/rear?
Some shocks come in pairs, while others are sold singly. By determining your needs, you could be able to successfully change your stocks within your budget.
Conclusion
Shock absorbers offer greater value than just a comfortable ride. They can improve your ability to handle your truck, with a better grasp reducing the likelihood of an accident. However, they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, which can make it tough to pick them apart. This guide should help you find an ideal cushion for your locomotion. Each of the shocks listed above could potentially be right for you, depending on your needs. It is important to assess your truck’s capacity, frequency of use and most common terrain to ensure these high-quality shocks offer value for money performance.