OEM TO BILSTEIN SHOCKS

New to me, an 07 Tacoma 4X4 short bed. I so apologize if this topic has been beaten to death. It seems as owners appreciate the switch from OEM to the Bilsteins. Understandable if switching out from worn out OEM to new shocks. I'm wondering if anybody has experience switching out perfectly good OEM, less than 30,000 miles to the Bilsteins. Noticeable difference? Live in Northern California where the roads are filled with potholes and rough pavement. Any off-road that I do is level dirt/gravel roads. I don't mind a firm ride, hopefully not harsh. Hoping for better handling and ride. Thanks for any responses I may get. Bottom line, don't really wanna spend that money and not be able to appreciate any improvement.

 

Just discussed

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/just-how-much-better-are-real-bilstein-4600-5100s.853558/

 

Are you saying you only have 30,000 miles on a 2007?? Anyway most oem shocks on Tacomas are Bilstein. The after market replacement Bilstein shocks are far superior to oem Bilstein shocks. The replacement shocks are Bilstein 4600’s. They are the same as the 5100’s except they are for trucks that are not lifted. So if you are replacing your shocks replace them with 4600’s. You have a 4wd truck they don’t ride like a Cadillac, they ride somewhat rough.

 

Sprig, got it! Thanks, Old guy here. If I can ever figure out how to post pictures, I would love to show it off. Literally found an 07 reg cab, short bed, 4X4 with 3 pedals, from original owner.(28,000 miles) Never taken out of town let alone off road. I don't think it was even driven in the rain, true time capsule.(heated garage) I have had it for a few months, had at least 5 people wanting to buy it. No way, it's a keeper.

 

You got a gem of a keeper there. Just due to age I’d get the shocks replaced. OEM shocks are crappy shocks compared to Bilstein 4600’s. I put them on my truck (2009 TRD 4x4 double cab). What general area in Northern California do you live? I’m in Elk Grove.

 

West of Santa Rosa, Forestville.

 

FYI, I did get around to replacing my original OEM shocks with the 4600's. As I stated, 2007 4X4 reg cab, 5 speed with 30,000 miles. I thought due to age, it would be a smart move. Not so much, couldn't notice much difference. Only good news, watched a video & rented a spring compressor, was able to replace in less than 2 hours myself. I had local shops wanting 4 to 6 hours labor. At least I didn't get ripped for the labor.