Reservoir vs. non Shocks

[Scott B.]

I am about to upgrade my rear Rancho RS9000s to Bilsteins.

The question is, will reservoir shocks provide better dampening and control than non-res shocks on a truck that is not a desert racer? I do run in the desert, and enjoy the whoops, but I do not jump or otherwise abuse the truck.

Empty, the rear axle carries about 2500 lbs. Off-road, I tow a teardrop trailer, and usually have a lot in the back. I have custom built Deaver leaf springs, that handle the load nicely.

I guess part of the question is does the extra weight/load cause the shock to heat up more/faster?

Thoughts?

 

[Toreadorranger]

Yes the extra weight will make the shock work harder and generate more heat. The resi shocks do provide a number of benefits over non-resi. More fluid which helps to keep them cooler is one of them.