5100 Bilstein Shocks

I have a question for the forum that can help me understand why one of my front shocks that I recently installed lost the zinc finish and became a very dirty gray on the outer upper part of the shock, about half. What could have happened to lose the outer finish, this is only on the drivers side and as far as I know nothing was dropped or leaked on it, because if it had I would think that it would have affected the springs too, right? These have only been on the truck for about 3 weeks (Bilsteins 5100's). I called the place where I bought them and they told me that as long as there not leaking not to worry about it. What does the forum with some insight into this problem think? Thanks for any thoughts on this question, (no smart aleck thoughts please).

 

picture , pictures would help us help U . Post a few pix when you get a chance. I installed mine this past December and have not noticed any discoloration so far...........Truck feels good all four corners.

 

You know I have no idea of how to post pictures, I need to learn, I understand it's an important tool to comunicate efficiently. But do you think that it'll cut the life of the shock in some way, I know it doesn't look new now even though there less than a month old. As far as performance goes should I worry about it or is it ok. I was thinking of buying a replacement for that side only since the other one is just a month or so old only. I don't think I need to buy the pair, right? Thanks man I appreciate your reply.

 

This can help you learn.

What the shop said is likely true. If it's not leaking, it's fine. The exterior coating may simply be the finish. Perhaps it cracked and flaked off, but what we see visually isn't the protective zinc coating - that's the dull gray you now see.

Yes, you can buy those shocks as single units. Think this through, though...

1 - post some pics so we can be surer of what we're answering about
2 - replacing will cost money - shock, install, realignment
3 - what's the downside? No performance loss as they are not broken leaking. Visual issue due to discoloration.

Some would say "Go git sum mud on 'er an' ye' won't hardly see the difference!" I say personal choice. BUT, if the external surface coating has cracked and flaked, it'd want to know why, as it's not supposed to happen, so maybe the shock should be replaced by the manufacturer. Maybe the shop was in error in some way. Don't know, but think it through.

You don't want a replacement facing the same issue this unit had and having to repeat this situation over again.

Then again, maybe there's something to just muddin' up the truck, too...

 

no discolor or leakage on mine i have them over 3 weeks now. Yeah like esse10 said posts some pics maybe be able to help you better. Im sure its nothing to worry. Good luck.