rear shocks

My 5 year old Icon RR shocks are leaking and I know I can have them rebuilt but I am thinking of just buying new Bilstein shocks. It would cost $75 each + shipping for the rebuild or $150 for new Bilstein's. Since I don't offroad, I really don't need the RR. Also, I could sell the Icon's cheap to someone who would use them for what they were designed (offroad). Now my questions: why do some shocks have the shock body on top, piston on bottom and others the shock body is on the bottom and piston on top.

Next question: I have 2.5" lift and I measured the resting length of the shock to be about 21". Bilstein 5100 have compressed length 14", extended 23". Bilstein B110 5100 (made for RCD 4" lift kit) have compressed length 16", extended 27". The B110's seem like a better option for me as I would have 5" of up travel and 6" down travel. The standard 5100 only give me 2" down travel. Also, I have the stock bump stops and at rest height, I have 4" from bump stop to frame rail so with 5" up travel I wouldn't over compress the shock.

 

Why would you downgrade your truck?

Even if you dont offroad, arent the Icons a better ride?

 

Are they really? Or am I just paying for a name and extra oil capacity for cooling. Plus why would I pay more to repair 5 year old shocks with 80,000 miles on them when I could get brand new shocks for less and maybe even make a few bucks selling the Icons. I don't need the remote resi for everyday driving, it's overkill. I really don't think I need to justify my decision. I just wanted some opinions on shock length and design orientation. I guess maybe I shouldn't have provided the background. My fault.

 

Bump......I am trying to answer the same question myself. The 5100's just aren't made for 2.5 inches lift. The best option I have found through research is the OME rears. They are made for 0-2.5". I was really hoping to stay on a Bilstein budget though.

 

I need the truck everyday. It's my only vehicle. Am I supposed to rent a car or buy cheap shocks to get me through the week or two that they would be rebuilt. Gotta figure a day or two each way in the mail plus the time at the shop. Is there some place in the north east that will re-build them while I wait? Not worth the hassle to me.

Again - not asking for opinions on whether I should rebuild or replace. I've already decided.