Bilstein Shocks for Bronco II

[Mtrhd0024]

Hey guys!

So I'm replacing a bunch of suspension parts on my Bronco II... The thing is all over the road, especially while braking, so 23 years, and 225,000 miles later I believe its time to replace some stuff! I believe the shocks on mine are original, so it is definitely in need of replacement!

I've researched good shocks for Bronco II's/RBV's, and while there are plenty of opinions out there, I keep hearing over and over that Bilsteins are the way to go. They're a good bit more expensive than some of the economy shocks out there, but I'm willing to pay the price for something that will last and make the truck handle better.

My question is this: I want to put Bilstein 4600 series shocks on it, and all the online shock places give a front P/N (24-022361) but no rear P/N for the Bronco II. So are the shocks from the rear of a 1990 Ranger the same as my Bronco II? The front P/N is the same as the Bronco II.

Here's the listing for the Bronco II:
http://www.shockwarehouse.com/index.cfm?mode=results&selected_model=3972&selected_year=1990

And the listing for the Ranger:
http://www.shockwarehouse.com/index.cfm?mode=results&selected_model=4033&selected_year=1990

The other thing is, I'm probably going to be putting Explorer Leaf Springs and possibly coils on my Bronco in the near future. The rear leafs are sagging pretty badly as most Bronco II's do. Will I still be able to use stock lenth shocks, assuming that I get the predicted 1-1.5" of lift in the back? I wouldn't think that would be a problem but I may as well ask.

I've searched and I'm not having a ton of luck finding all the answers I need, so I figured maybe one of you guys has been through this before!

 

[Mtrhd0024]

If anyone can tell me whether 90' Ranger shocks are bolt on for a Bronco II, that will pretty much answer my main question.

I'm open to other suggestions besides Bilsteins if anyone has had any great experiences... I was considering James Duff shocks for a while. They're considerably cheaper than the billies.

 

[4x4junkie]

Ranger rear shocks are definitely longer than BII rear shocks (I think by about 3" or so, but not sure on exact amount).

What I would suggest is take off one of your old shocks and measure it's fully-extended length and mounting type (double-eye), then you should be able to match something up to it in a catalog (maybe go an inch or 2 longer if you're planning on a small lift).

 

[Slammin Sam]

I've had good luck with Gabriel Ultra shocks. After a pair of Monroes started leaking after less than 20,000 miles on my 2000 Ranger 2wd, I switched to the Ultras and was very pleased. You can find them online for less than $45 shipped, and they offer them for both ends of the B2. Bilsteins are great shocks, but depending on your driving, could be overkill.

 

[Mtrhd0024]

Ranger rear shocks are definitely longer than BII rear shocks (I think by about 3" or so, but not sure on exact amount).

What I would suggest is take off one of your old shocks and measure it's fully-extended length and mounting type (double-eye), then you should be able to match something up to it in a catalog (maybe go an inch or 2 longer if you're planning on a small lift).

Thanks Junkie! Your advice is very helpful! I was sorta hoping to run across someone who had been through this before.

I just poked around a little further on that ShockWareHouse website... They list the KYB shocks for BII as 22.8" long, and the Ranger shocks as 25.6" long. So your length differences were almost spot on!

I've had good luck with Gabriel Ultra shocks. After a pair of Monroes started leaking after less than 20,000 miles on my 2000 Ranger 2wd, I switched to the Ultras and was very pleased. You can find them online for less than $45 shipped, and they offer them for both ends of the B2. Bilsteins are great shocks, but depending on your driving, could be overkill.

Thanks man, I'll look into them! How do they ride?

I do a lot of daily driving over some fairly rough roads, and I also drive offroad a lot. The offroad is about 1/2 business 1/2 pleasure, lots of rough logging roads to check timber that's being cut, etc. They will see mud, sand, snow, and water. (river and creek crossings) I figured some good quality shocks that could hold up to some decent abuse would be a good thing!

But surely anything will be better than shocks with 225k on them!

 

[Wasp]

Just thought I would jump in on this thread seeing as have a similar rig. I scored a set of Bilstein 7100 12" travel for the fronts (D35) with limiting straps and a set of Monroe air shocks for the rear (8.8). The Monroe's were made for a Ranger so as not to limit the articulation in the rear. The nice thing is, they are adjustable built well and inexpensive. I load the rear up with wood I find in the woods, I pump the shocks up to 95lbs and Bobs your uncle. Once I'm home and unloaded, back down to 65lbs for a smooth even ride.

My 2 cents,

J