I want to start taking my '03 Z71 offroad, but I want to get new shocks first (since the truck has 60K on it and still using the original shocks) and I was wondering if there are any shocks out there for Z's that are better than OEM that people are using? Or am I better off just getting another set of OEM Z71 shocks? TIA!

 

60k, the OEM(Bilsteins) are still fine. No need to replace unless you really want to throw money away. Why do you think you need them replaced?

 

BTW, hello neighbor

 

I've been running a set of Ranch RS9000 adjustables on mine. The seem to work ok, but I have had a lot of problems with the front bushings coming off. I think I've had to replace them 4 or 5 times. I'm due for new shocks again, and I'm going back to stock this time.

 

I was under the impression that 60K was the service life of OEM shocks? Plus if I'm going to start taking the truck offroad I figured it be a good idea to have some new shocks underneath me

Haha, hello! I see from your sig that you're USN, active duty? Where are you stationed? I'm on a DDG in Norfolk, but I just got selected for STA-21 to be a pilot, so I won't be here much longer (not that it matters since I've been on this bpat almost FIVE years now!!)

Yeah, I heard the stock Z71 shocks are pretty kickass and I have found a few sets of new takeoff Z71 shocks on egay for less than $50!

 

I love my Edlebrock IAS Performer's, I have had 4 of friends get them and love them too...

 

Well, non-bilstein shocks might need to be replaced sooner. I ran with factory bilstein's on my old Z71 Tahoe up to 100k and they still worked great. Then for some reason I replaced them with some KYB's and there was almost no change at all.

Bilstein all the way.

 

Sweet, I'll stick with my stockers then and check'em every once in awhile!

 

I just replaced my front's with edlebrocks and I have to say it's a pretty big difference. Mind you, my stock Z71 shocks have close to 110K on 'em. I'm about to buy a set for the back.

 

I am on a CVN. Truman to be exact at Norfolk. I think you should be fine, BUT if you must, go ahead and buy the take offs for that price. I did that for my old 4x4 truck. Got a used set that had like 45k miles for $30 shipped to me. Rode those for 3 years until she was sold.

If not, I have Edlebrock IAS, the ride great. Bought the truck with them on already.