6112 vs 5100

So about to pull the trigger on a new set of shocks, UCA’s and an AAL … for my 2013 Tacoma.. gonna do the 285/75/16’s .. for a little lift and better off road capacity .. mostly beach running and some hunting roads ..just trying to decide between 5100 and 6112 …. Can someone just tell me the major pros and cons between the two .. the price difference is not a deciding factor to me… anyone with first hand experience would be great .. Thank you

 

If cost isn't a factor, go 6112s. Don't think there are any con's over 5100s

 

^This. I haven't run the 5100's on my truck but currently have the OE Pro version of the 6112. I don't think there are really pros/cons to think about. As far as I can tell, the only "con" to the 6112 is the added cost. Other than that, all pros since it's just a better shock.

https://www.shocksurplus.com/pages/bilstein-6112-or-5100-shocks-know-before-you-buy

 

Timely question! I've been considering the same but am leaning to the 6112 for my '21. Not looking to go too high, just adding a bit of height to stop the rare OEM mudflap rub on my 265/75/16's when cranked and compressed and getting a bit of a rise for aesthetics but want a nice, capable ride for the occasional off road jaunts.

How do the 6112 ride in comparison to a stock TRD OR suspension? What characteristics should we expect?

 

Be prepared for that added lift to NOT fix your rubbing issue. Lifting will only mean you need to compress the suspension further until it rubs. If it rubs when stuffed now then it'll rub when stuffed after lifting. Only cutting, tire size, wheel offset, and/or alignment are gonna truly fix your rubbing.

Personally, 6112 is night and day difference compared to TRD OR. Given mine are the OE Pro version so valved slightly differently. When I made the switch from TRD OR to 6112/5160 the ride was much improved in terms of comfort. Just feels like the shocks are more capable of controlling what gets thrown at it, not as jarring. The external reservoir was also a huge selling point for me since I end up on washboard roads a lot which can very quickly destroy the stock rear shocks if you're not careful. Having the better ability to handle heat gives me some peace of mind.

 

5100's ride firm, and the higher you go the worse it gets.

6112's ride way smoother and softer in my opinion, they aren't comparable. Only at the top clip do you notice poor ride quality.

Buy once, cry once. But you'll need to get your lower caster pushed forward to get the 285's to rub less. You'll still have to chop the cab mount to remove all rubbing.

 

I wish I got the 6112 from the start!

 

I'll live with the minimal rub if that's the fix. No chops going down on this rig. Not sure if I'd bother with 285's but if I had the option, I can make that decision when it's tire time in a couple-a-few years!

I already like the sound of the 6112 performance now the questions been asked.

 

6112s for all the reasons mentioned above. You'll have no "ragrets".

 

Ordering now!