Buy shocks 71 lifted k5

[mcnally351]

My buddy just picked up a 71 blazer with what looks like a 4" lift on 33" tires. He wants to replace the shocks. I don't think he needs adjustable ones. It will mostly be street driven, light trail driving.

My question is first what shocks are you guys running without breaking the bank but a good improvement. Also I'm trying to id the lift kit, what is approximatly the stock ride hight on a 71. At the fender wells ? Rocker? Idk.

I want to make sure I get the right length shock. I will pull the old one and measure. Are there many different lengths used on a 4-6" lift.

Thanks-

[tjsblazer]

I have not ran personally but have heard good feedback on Bilstein 5100's. They do offer a few different valving options although it sounds like their recommended street valving would suit your described usage. You can measure the shocks that are on there or measure ride height and suspended height to get a good idea knowing you will need to allow for some further compression when wheeling.
Sorry can't help on the 71 ride height, my truck is currently in pieces.

[mcnally351]

Thanks Jeff. I'm going to check them out

[mcnally351]

I've heard from a few that those bilsteins are good. Are those ranchos cheap junk?

[tjsblazer]

Originally Posted by mcnally351

I've heard from a few that those bilsteins are good. Are those ranchos cheap junk?

Not sure on the Ranchos. They were on my truck when I bought them but I am changing ride height on mine also and planned on going with Bilsteins. I drove it very little with the Ranchos. I said I have not run Bilsteins on this truck and I haven't, but I have ran them on a 99 Sierra and an old F**d. I liked them on both of those trucks. Both mostly street usage, offroad occasionally during hunting season.

[mcnally351]

Cool. Thanks again !!

[mtully79]

I also used the Biltstein 5100 with no complaints. I have a 4" BDS lift and it has pretty good road manners. I'm looking to add Deaver springs when the budget allows.

[mcnally351]

Originally Posted by mtully79

I also used the Biltstein 5100 with no complaints. I have a 4" BDS lift and it has pretty good road manners. I'm looking to add Deaver springs when the budget allows.

Good to know. Thank you for the reply!

[Chulisohombre]

Go for the billsteins. I have the ranchos and they work ok but I put a set of billsteins in my two wheel Drive dodge and it ride so Nice. I will be replacing my ranchos with 5100s soon. Getting ready for summer driving. I have 4 inch springs on mine and they have about a 3 inch positive arch compared to stock. It all depends on type of springs you have and how many leaves what lift you actually are running. You need to know what length and compression your springs have when articulated. For the most part they should be able to give you a off the shelf shock for 4 inch lift and you'll be fine.