Harsh Ride

2011 DCSB 4.0L 4x4

The front end seems to have a really harsh ride. Bumps are very jarring and its been annoying me for the last few years.

A few years ago, I installed Bilstein 5100's all around with clips on pos. 2 from bottom, stock springs. Also rebuilt LCA's with Moog bushings.

My hypothesis is that: the preload on the stock springs gives a slightly harsher ride than stock lowest setting on 5100's. Also the Moog bushings are fully filled rubber bushings as compared to the stock bushings that have a rubber web at 12 and 6 o'clock probably for more compliance. So i believe the Moog bushings resist twist and deflection too much and give this effect. I believe these two factors are contributing to the harsh front end feel of the truck and now I'm considering switching to OME leveling springs on lowest setting and OE LCA bushings to see if the ride becomes more compliant.

Anyone have similar experience or have suggestions

 

What tires are you running ? Tires are the #1 culprit of a harsher ride than OE, no matter what you do to your suspension if you have a stiffer tire than stock = " there's your problem "

 

Tires are 235 85 16 AT2's load E but i had that before I did shocks and bushings and it was not as harsh then. I may just replace the bushings and see if it helps. Thats the cheapest option for now

 

E loads are heavy..heavier than stock, but if they were good before, Im guessing the preloaded springs like you said.

 

yeah if you were accustomed to the harsh ride of E’s then you are on the right track. i would say to start with the bushings first

 

Didn’t see if you mentioned if you have aftermarket uca’s?
I hated the ride with my Toytec coil over lift.
Installed jba uca’s and the ride is so much better on my 4cyl, access cab