TRD shock absorbers

I've got a 2000 TRD Taco, with the Bilstein shocks all around. Was thinking about replacing all of them, and have a spare set for the front, but need the rear ones. I called my local dealer and they were wanting $108 and $119 for the left and right. Thought since they were Bilstein, I could just get another set of Bilstein from somewhere else. I've found them online for $65 each, but it's not the same thing. Called Bilstein and they don't make replacement shocks, but will sell me aftermarket. I asked what the difference was and they're basically just a little more beefy, bigger diameter shock and a little stiffer, which the guy claims allows for more control over the vehicle.

Anyone had any experience with this, or should I just pay up for the dealer parts? Thanks.

No direct experience with changingToyota shocks, but I have tried upgrading shocks on one end of other vehicles and found you usually need the same type shocks front and rear for the best handling and ride control. Stiffer shocks usually give a stiffer ride, if you drive a lot on rough roads you may not be happy with stiffer shocks.

Clifton

Here are some new TRD rear shocks that may interest you. It is not my auction and I am have no financial interest.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33590&item=7960670253&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

Clifton

I've got a 2000 TRD Taco, with the Bilstein shocks all around. Was thinking about replacing all of them, and have a spare set for the front, but need the rear ones. I called my local dealer and they were wanting $108 and $119 for the left and right. Thought since they were Bilstein, I could just get another set of Bilstein from somewhere else. I've found them online for $65 each, but it's not the same thing. Called Bilstein and they don't make replacement shocks, but will sell me aftermarket. I asked what the difference was and they're basically just a little more beefy, bigger diameter shock and a little stiffer, which the guy claims allows for more control over the vehicle.

Anyone had any experience with this, or should I just pay up for the dealer parts? Thanks.


I would go with the after market shocks. You will get more bang for the buck. I replaced all of the shocks on my 2004 Prerunner and got a much better ride. The rear shocks are easy to change. The front shocks require spring compressors that will fit the variable rate front springs. It will be difficult to change these springs with out the right compressors. I installed Tokico trek masters and I have no regrets doing so. The Bilsteins are great off road shocks. I do not know how the ride quality will be on road. Check out truck performance.com for deals on shocks.