Gabriel vs. Bilstein? Input requested.

Wanting to replace the shock on my Tacoma. I have shopped around and it seems to me that Gabriel and Bilstein are the way to go, obviously noting the price difference. I use my truck for normal commute and the occasional haul of furniture, etc. I want a ultra smooth ride vs. the one I have now. If you have replaced your shocks on a like vehicle, do I pay almost twice the price for Bilstein?....or are Gabriel more than enough for my usage? Any input would be appreciated. Also, I live in Ohio and the cold weather here seems to make gas shocks stick a little. Being a newbie at truck upgrading, what are the major pros and cons of air vs. gas? Thanks.

 

Welcome to TW. Did you not like how your stock Bilstein shocks rode? There are air shocks, oil shocks, and gas shocks. I wouldn't recommend air shocks if you want ride comfort. I think you'd be better off with gas, though depending on your budget/brand preference you should go with what you're okay with.

The smoothest shocks I've ever had (not on my Tacoma) were Monroe SensaTrac. They were really soft so the bump absorption was great, but they easily compressed when I was driving witha load of people or gear.

 

I have just noticed that after 70K miles, the bumps are a little harder. I'll admit, I baby the damn thing. I drive it like it's a Caddy instead of a truck. I plan on keeping it forever so I try to put the best in it without being ridiculous. My dad keeps preaching Gabriel. Like I said, just looking for a smoother ride. Am I to assume Bilstein is more for off-roading and such? I will look into the Sensatrac though.

 

If available, KYB GR2's would be nice to try.

 

I'm only semi amiliar with GR2s for imports, but aren't those fairly stiff shocks?

 

No.

 

I would recommend Bilstein since they come with a lifetime warranty!

 

Billy's I just got mine from down south motorsports 319 shipped.

 

For general use its hard to beat Bilstein.