Rear Shock Replacement/Recommendation

[azoffrd1]

Hey all..
Today I was going to replace my rear shocks with Rancho RS9000's
When I removed the rear shocks I realized that the OEM shocks were gas charged. The new Rancho's are not. My rig has the air suspension system. If I remove the OEM gas charged shocks does this affect the performance and/or tongue weight capabilities of the rear end of this vehicle, or will the back end ride height suffer or does the ride get better? Any help will be appreciated.

[tomp]

Contrary to popular belief, that high pressure gas charged shocks dont assist with Ride Height, I have found this to false. They do in fact provide assistance to the coil springs because they are under very high pressure. My H2 dropped 1/2-1" in the rear when I removed the OEM shocks and installed the 9000s. However, the Rancho 9000s will provide a much better ride. My suggestion is to go with the Bilstein 5100 or 5125 series shocks or the Monroe self-adjusting shocks (both of these shocks are high pressure charged). Monroe is owned by Telico which is the same company as Rancho. Either of these shocks will also be an improvement in ride quality over stock, but not as good as the 9000s. Also, I have found that the 9000s don't last very long - something else to consider...

[pdxrealtor]

I have the adjustable 9000's and I didn't notice any drop in the rear with OEM air setup FWIW.

Also, if you like the ride with OEM shocks replace with OEM shocks. The 9000's aren't bad but they're not as stiff in my experience. Even on the stiffest setting.

[azoffrd1]

Thanks guys for the helpful information. I went ahead and replaced the OEM shocks with the Rancho RS9000XL's. I really did not see any noticeable decrease on overall ride height. There is a big difference in ride quality. PX is right the OEM shocks provided a much stiffer ride feel. Right now I am trying different combinations of the settings on the shocks. Currently using 5 on the front and 8 on the back. The ride is very smooth. I really like it, these shocks are a definite improvement. At the same time I added the Rancho steering stabilizer as well as a new Pittman arm and idler arm/mount. Huge difference in steering. Like new again! Thanks for your help