Do you want to upgrade your truck’s suspension system? The shock remains an essential component of a vehicle’s suspension system. It becomes more significant when you do off-roading, tow trailers, and haul heavy loads.
The shocks dampen the motion, absorb the shock, and level your trucks to make your rides smooth. Shocks give you better control of the ride and enhance the truck’s ability to withstand quick stops and starts.
If you’re a Dodge Ram 15000 4x4x owner, this read is a real treat for you. We have enlisted and reviewed the nine best shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4, which you can buy in 2024. A buying guide, in the end, will help you make the right decisions. Let’s dive deep into the review.
List of Best Shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 Review
1. Monroe Shocks & Struts Load Adjusting 58640 Shock Absorber
Monroe 58640 makes its way to the top of our list of best shocks for Dodge ram 1500. Coming from a trusted and reliable brand, it offers exceptionally smooth and stable rides on bumpy and harsh terrains.
We found this product impressively stable for off-roading. What makes this shock best of all is its all-temperature fluid, which means the area’s temperature does not affect its performance.
The fluid can handle extreme temperatures making shock ideal for people who travel to different areas with changing temperatures. Also, we loved the automatic tuning of Monroe shock for the dodge RAM 1500 4×4.
It automatically tunes itself according to the terrain on which the truck is moving. This automatic tuning gives you confidence while off-roading and on bumper terrains.
Additionally, it has a calibrated spring system with a high gauge value that reduces the sag, offering you a loading capacity of up to 1200 lbs. Also, it works great for hauling and towing, making it an exceptionally great option for carrying a load over long distances.
Finally, we loved the Nitrogen-charge that improves the tire-rod contact and helps it absorb the shock quickly and efficiently.
- Automatic adjustment on different terrains
- Ideal for towing trailers
- nitrogen-gas -charge for improved performance
- High-gauge calibrated springs
- Relatively expensive
Monroe 58640 shock absorber is one of the finest choices for the Dodge RAM 1500 4X4 owners. With automatic tuning according to terrain and a high gauge calibrated spring system, this shock absorber promises impressive stability and smoothness even when off-roading.
2. Bilstein (24-060820) 4600 Series Shock Absorber
Bilstein 4600 series is specially designed to improve performance while off-roading. These shock absorbers offer 30% above performance than OEM and offer impressive stability for high pulse bumps.
The best thing about Bilstein 4600 series shock absorbers is that they utilize a digressive piston system. This piston system is sensitive to changes in velocity that prevents fluid leakage.
It automatically tunes to changing terrains giving you a smooth and fade-free performance. We really appreciate the level of the upgrading we observed after replacing the old worn shock of the Dodge Ram 1500 4x4x.
The shocks are pretty straightforward to install- tanks to mountable design. What impressed us most is that this shock gives exceptional performance over the long and slow bumps.
We experienced this shock absorber more effective for a rear shock than front shocks. However, for a greater experience, we recommend installing all four shocks at once.
The shock absorber by Bilstein is competitively priced, making it easier to replace your old worn struts. Plus, a lifetime guarantee and reliable performance for over 50,000 miles give you the confidence to invest in this fairly priced product.
- Best for off-roading
- Quick and easy installation
- Competitively priced
- Not ideal for towing trailers
We had a great experience with Bilstein 4600 series shock absorbers and highly recommended this product for off-road packages. Its competitive price, straightforward mountable design, and digressive piston help it stand out as the best shock for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4.
3. Bilstein 24-187367 5100 Series Front Shock for Dodge Ram 1500
Bilstein 24-187367 shocks are another great choice for Dodge Ram 4×4. These ride height adjustable shocks help you level the factory nose-down rake. This zinc-plated set of shocks is highly durable and reliable and offers the best value for money.
These shock absorbers offer a front lift between 0-2.75, depending upon the type of application. Thus, with such wheel travel, it can accommodate the tires as wide as 33-inches.
The shock uses a 46mm depressive piston system that responds to velocity change and automatically tunes according to the terrain for different applications. It makes the steering more responsive, keeping the truck stable even while towing a trailer also.
What we found most impressive about this set of shocks is its monotube gas pressure technology and straightforward installation. With a direct bolt-on installation mechanism, you can install these shocks in almost no time.
Another good news is that this shock absorber package includes everything you might need for installation.
- Best for towing
- Front Lift between 0-2.75-inches
- Straightforward installation
- Expensive
Bilstein 51000 series is particularly designed to level the custom lifted trucks, and it works great with Dodge Ram 1500 4×4. The set of shock barbers by Bilstein helps you get the unmatched level of stability and more responsive steering even when you tow a trailer.
4. KYB 344385 Excel-G Gas Shock, Black
KYB Excel-G Gas Shocks are the best factory replacement for your Dodge Ram 1500 4×4. This twin-tube gas-charged absorber is one of the most inexpensive shocks you can buy for Ram 1500 in 2024.
The feature that makes this shock worth buying is its exceptional quality for a long lifespan. It uses a gas cylinder featuring a Teflon coated piston seal, making it one of the most reliable shock absorbers.
Plus, we loved the solid mounting eye-rings that keep the rod in place and ensure responsiveness and stability on bumpier rods. In terms of performance, KYB Excel-G Gas shock absorbers can outperform many expensive models.
It comes with chrome-plated piston rods and Power Bushings of Gas charge, offering exceptional vehicle ride control, stability, smoothness, and responsive steering.
If you want to get original handling and control of your vehicle, it is recommended to replace all four shocks. The installation is simple and straightforward, and it took us around forty minutes to install a set of four shocks.
- Affordable
- Original handling and control
- Teflon coated piston seal for a longer lifespan
- No automatic tuning
We loved KYB Excel-G Gas Charge shocks as a replacement for rusted, worn-out shocks in the Dodge Ram 1500. These affordable shock absorbers turned out to be very effective, offering the original handling and control of vehicles even on bumpy roads.
5. Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit (fits) 2014-2020 Ram Truck
A Rough Country suspension system with the best shocks offers comfort, control, stability, and everything you can expect for a premium shock-absorbing mechanism.
It is manufactured to meet the Dodge Ram’s stability requirement while off-roading and hauling. It uses premium quality stainless steel that is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, giving you long-term performance.
What we loved the most about this suspension kit is its thick and sturdy spring system. These springs offer exceptional stability even on bumpy roads and help you level the rear and front of the truck.
Additionally, it is a nitrogen-gas-charged shock that ensures unmatched stability and reliable performance in tough conditions.
This suspension system by Rough Country is backed by a Limited Lifetime replacement warranty, giving you the confidence to invest in this product. Finally, we really appreciate the complete package we received from Rough Country.
It comes with all essential U-bolts and related accessories. It took us around three hours to install this full 3-inch lift suspension kit.
- Corrosion-free construction
- Thick and heavy springs
- Nitrogen-gas charged
- Installation is time-taking
Rough Country 2.5-inch lift kit with a complete set of shocks is one of the best options you can consider for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4.
We loved the corrosion-free construction and heavy springs offering unmatched stability and comfort while off-roading and hauling heavy loads.
6. DTA 70004 2 Front Struts + 2 Rear Shocks
DTA 70004 struts and shocks are the gas charges shock-absorbing systems that give an exceptional performance at a competitive price point. This set of front struts and rear shocks feature a premium quality corrosion-free construction, making it one of the most reliable options on the market.
The premium quality stainless steel shocks are powder-coated, making them exceptionally resistant to moisture and corrosion.
What we loved most about these shocks is the SV3 all-weather fluid and nitrogen filling. SV3 fluid and nitrogen gas give you the freedom to explore bumpy terrains and challenging roads in all temperature conditions.
The Teflon-blended piston seal and chrome-plated sturdy piston prevent fluid and gas leakage, promising smooth, stable, and fade-free rides.
The coil spring design in front struts manages the truckload and responds quickly to changing velocities and surface conditions. We really appreciate the complete package we received from that manufacturer.
It includes all the required tools and accessories like isolator, bootkit, spring seat, and bearings making the installation quick and effortless.
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- All-weather SUV fluid
- Quick and easy installation
- Not ideal for heavy loads
DTA 70004 uses the industry’s best construction quality and is certified for all quality standards. This set of front struts and rear shocks delivers the best performance for off-roading and challenging rides and ensures long-term performance.
7. Detroit Axle – 4pc Front Strut & Rear Shock Kit
Detroit Axle-4pc shock-absorbing kit is one of the most reliable and durable options you can buy for the Dodge Ram 1500 4×4. The front struts and rear shocks use sturdy, anti-rust stainless steel and have undergone many quality tests.
It withstands all the quality and wear-out tests, ensuring long-term and reliable performance. This shock-absorbing system is designed to provide stability over bumpy terrains, bad roads, and while hauling heavy loads.
It uses an advanced oil hydraulic system to improve the performance and the coil spring system to support the weight of trucks. We installed this 4-pcs set and really loved the level of upgrading.
The shocks were highly responsive to changing velocities and long-pump and delivered exceptional control and stability.
Plus, a rigid piston rod and the adjustable seals between piston and pressure tubes prevent leakage and protect the suspension system from damage. We are totally impressed by the easiest and quick installation system of the shocks.
It features a mountable design and includes all the tools required for installation in the package.
- Sturdy, anti-rust construction
- Quick And Easy assembly
- Ideal for off-roading and hauling
- No automatic tuning
The Detroit-Axle set of front struts and rear shocks is one of the best shock absorbing systems we ever tried.
With quality construction, the best oil-hydraulic system, and calibrated springs, it keeps your rides smooth and cherished even in tough and challenging conditions.
Read Also: Best Shocks for Dodge Ram 2500
8. Skyjacker N8000 Gas Shocks Set for 94-01 Dodge Ram 1500
Skyjacker Gas shock sets are specially designed to upgrade the performance of Dodge Ram 1500 94-01 models. This is a set of four, including spring dampers and shock absorbers that provide better vehicle control and fade-free rides. What we found most impressive is their ability to tune with changing velocities.
It has an impressive front lift between 2-3 inches and a rear lift that increases the wheel travel, giving you the freedom to explore the bumper and harsh terrains with stability.
Additionally, the rear lift increases your departure angle and takes off, making your rides controlled, smooth and risk-free. It ensures accurate tire-road contact making it a perfect choice for both on-road and off-road conditions.
Another good news is that you will get all the nuts, washers, bolts, and other tools required for the installation in one purchase. This makes the installation quick and hassle-free.
Another good news is that Skyjack is offering a limited lifetime warranty on this set of shock absorbers. It is an appreciable feature as premature failure is the buyer’s major concern while buying the parts replacements.
- Impressive front and rear lift
- Quick and easy installation
- Limited lifetime warranty
- A bit costly
Skyjacker Gas shocks will surely help you upgrade the performance of the Dodge Ram 1500 4×4. This set of shock absorbers and spring damper improves the tire-terrain contact giving you more controlled, stable, smooth, and rattle-free rides.
9. Rancho RS9000XL RS999367 Shock Absorber
Final on our list is the Rancho shock absorbers that are our favorite for many reasons. Featuring a sturdy construction and reliable design, this is one of the best-performing shock absorbers for off-roading and hard applications.
It uses a nitro-carbon piston rod and a sinter iron piston that enhances the structural stability and also prevents the suspension system from wearing out and rusting.
It is further strengthened by double-welding at the stress area, making it perfect for heavy-duty applications. What impressed us most is its 70 mm large tube, having the exceptional capacity to store fluid. It means it doesn’t warm up quickly, giving you a long-term performance.
Another bonus we got is the nitrogen-gas pressurized to 120 PSI. It prevents the gas fluid mixing and foam formation, making the vehicle impressively smooth and stable even in challenging conditions.
It is an adjustable type of shock absorber that can be adjusted to nine different levels of damping to get the optimum performance in different on-road and off-road conditions. Although it’s a great feature, some truck owners prefer the non-adjustable shocks that tune automatically with the changing road conditions.
Finally, we were obsessed with the all-temperature fluid and nitrogen-gas filling, making the shocks perfect for riding in all temperatures.
- Sturdy And rust-free construction
- Adjustable to nine levels
- All-temperature fluid
- Not ideal for heavy loads
Rancho RS900XL are competitively priced shock absorbers that promise stability and long-term performance. It gives you the freedom to explore challenging rods and areas with stability and control with all-temperature fluid and highly pressurized nitrogen gas.
Buyer’s Guide
Best shocks are crucial to get stability and responsiveness while off-roading and hauling heavy loads. The best set of shocks not only improves your riding experience but also protects your suspension system.
If you are planning to upgrade the suspension system of your Dodge Ram 1500, it is critical to keep a few points in mind. It is a complete guide on features you must look for in shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4.
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Monotube Vs. Twin-Tube Style
Shocks generally come in two styles: monotube and twin-tube. Both styles deliver their best for different driving conditions and applications.
Twin-tube-style shocks are ideal for smooth rides and on-road conditions. Therefore twin-tube style shocks are recommended for everyday use.
However, if you do regular off-roading or haul heavy loads, you will need mono-tube-style shocks. These shocks keep the gas and fluid separated, and prevent foam formation, giving exceptional performance while off-roading.
Monotube-style shocks are also ideal for towing and hauling, and they have the ability to respond to jumps, long jumps, and changing speeds.
Diameter and Outer-core Thickness
These two factors have a huge impact on the performance of your suspension system. The shock tubes with large diameters can store large masses of fluid and gas. Therefore they can store extra energy and warm up slowly, delivering exceptional performance for a long-time.
The tubes with short diameter store less fluid and gas, therefore quickly heating up. It is critical to invest in a wide-diameter shock tube if you do off-roading or ride in tough conditions.
The thick outer core adds stability and protection to the suspension system but cuts down the space to store gas and fluid. This results in less energy storage and early warming of the suspension system.
On the other hand, shocks with thin outer cores are not as reliable as the thicker ones but can store large amounts of energy and don’t warm quickly. You should prefer the thick outer cores for regular use, but you should prefer more space to store gas and fluid for more challenging conditions.
Gas-Charged Shocks
Gas-charged shocks use a mixture of oil and gas that provides impressive damping making your rides smooth even in challenging conditions. The quality of gas highly affects the performance of the suspension system.
Nitrogen is the best gas for shock-absorbing systems. Shocks using nitrogen usually come expensive, but they are highly efficient and provide long-term performance for off-roading, hauling, and towing.
Some inexpensive shocks also use oxygen, which is acceptable for smooth rides and everyday use, but you can not rely on them if you do regular off-roading.
Construction Quality
Shocks and struts don’t come cheap, and therefore, you cannot risk investing in low-quality shocks. Cheap shocks rust over time and reduce the efficiency of the suspension system.
Shocks made with metal alloys and hardened aluminum give high value for the money and do not wear out quickly. Also, you should look for rust-protective coating on the shocks.
Pricing
Shocks for Dodge Ram decide the quality of its suspension system. The price of shocks for SDodge Ram 1500 varies between $100-$400, depending upon their ability to deal with different conditions.
Products coming from renowned brands offer the market’s best design and construction at higher prices.
These shocks are best for off-roading and challenging rides and offer the best value for money. However, the price always doesn’t dictate the quality and performance of shocks. We have enlisted many competitively priced shocks for the Dodge Ram you can buy in 2024.
FAQs
What shocks give the smoothest ride?
The monotube-style shocks filled with all-temperature fluid and nitrogen gas give the smoothest rides. Such shocks are best for off-roading and heavy-duty applications, like towing trailers and hauling heavy loads.
How long do Ram 1500 shocks last?
The life of the Ram 15oo shocks depends upon your riding habits. Regular off-roading and heavy-duty applications shorten the lifespan of shocks and whole suspension systems.
In general, the shocks’ life ranges from 10,000 miles to 50,000 miles, depending upon the construction quality and use.
Are Bilstein shocks better than KYB?
Both Bilstein and KYB are reliable brands when it comes to buying automotive parts like shocks and suspension kits.
However, Bilstein is the best and most trusted brand for automotive parts. Bilstein shocks offer better performance than KYB shocks for off-roading and challenging applications.
Wrapping Up
It is crucial to equip the vehicle with the best quality shocks and suspension system for a smooth and stable ride. Our list of best shocks for diode ram 1500 includes the most reliable and best options you can buy in 2024. To make your way easier, we have picked our top three favorites
Bilstein (24-060820) 4600 Series Shock Absorber for its competitive price, reliable performance while off-roading, 50,000 miles lifespan, and straightforward installation.
Detroit Axle – 4pc Front Strut & Rear Shock Kit for its corrosion-free construction, oil-hydraulic system, quick assembly, and ability to handle heavy loads.
Rancho RS9000XL RS999367 Shock Absorber for high-pressure nitrogen gas, all-temperature fluid, sturdy construction, and competitive price.
Shock remains the most critical part of the suspension system and largely affects the vehicle’s performance and riding experience. Therefore you should not invest in low-quality products just to save a few bucks.
Check out these shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 from Amazon:
- Replacement for 1994-2001 Dodge Ram 1500 - 4x4 Models - [1994-2002 Dodge Ram 2500 - 4x4 Models w/o 8800lb GVW Only]
- Kit Includes: (2) Front Shock Absorbers Assembly
- Detroit Axle Shock Absorbers Assemblies are complete and ready for installation with no additional work or special tool required for installation
- Undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing to help ensure quality and durability
- 10-Year Warranty
- Replacement for 2009 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD, 2011 - 2018 Ram 1500 4WD, 2019 - 2023Ram 1500 Classic 4WD
- Oredy High Quality Quick Install Gas Shock Strut Set
- Kit Includes: 2x Front Complete Strut w/ Coil Spring Assembly - 172292
- Ready to Install: No Special Tools Required! Complete Loaded Struts! Easy to Install All by Yourself!
- Lifetime Warranty: Local US Friendly After-Service Team to Resolve Your Issues in Time! Please Feel Free to Contact us!
- Fully loaded complete unit is safe and easy to install. Guranteed fit and function.
- The strut is nitrogen gas charged with 4 Lip Teflon banded Piston Seal, micro polished chrome plated piston rod and all weather SV3 fluid.
- Coil Spring is heated treated & powder coated to ensure longevity and protection from Corrosion.
- Spring seats insulated to springs to ensure quiet and comfortable ride quality.
- Neoprene boots and bump stops when applicable.
- Control Arms Replacement for 2002-2005 Dodge Ram 1500 (4WD ONLY - 5-Lug)
- Control Arms Kit Includes: 2x Front Upper Control Arm + 2x Lower Ball Joint +2x sway Bar Link + 2x Outer Tie Rod
- Detroit Axle Suspension components are ready to meet the rigorous demands of today’s foreign and domestic passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs
- Undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing to help ensure quality and durability
- 10-YEAR WARRANTY!
- COMPATIBILITY – Fits1994-2001 Dodge Ram 1500; 1994-1999 Dodge Ram 1500; 2000-2001 Dodge Ram 1500; 1994-2002 Dodge Ram 2500; 1994-1996 Dodge Ram 2500; 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban;...
- GET THE RIGHT PART -- Before purchasing, research to ensure that the part will fit your vehicle; enter all vehicle information (year, make, model, engine and trim) for compatibility and...
- NINE LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE -- Nine-position easy-to-adjust knob allows customized damping control and firmness for on-road and off-road flexibility
- DESIGNED FOR HARDWORKING VEHICLES -- Ideal for stock or lifted trucks, SUVs and Jeeps that tow, haul or go off road
- INDUSTRY FIRST -- Recognized as the first nine-position manually adjustable shock series in the off-road market
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