Best Shocks For Dodge RAM 1500 4x4 Trucks

The 11 Best Shocks For Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 Trucks [Review & Guide]

Are you looking for the best shocks for your Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 (4WD) truck? We have got you covered! This article will showcase the best shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 trucks in the market today.

We all know that a decent truck is incomplete without a good suspension system. And when it comes to trucks, the shocks are a must-have. Not only do they improve the ride quality, but they also make sure that your truck can handle any terrain and provide optimal performance.

Now, there are a lot of shocks out there that claim to be the best. But not all of them live up to the hype. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 trucks.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

REVIEWS: 11 best shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 trucks

1. Bilstein 5100 Series gas shocks for 4WD RAM 1500

Bilstein 5100 Series gas shocks

Highlights

  • It has a front OE coil-over style suspension
  • Great fit for 0 – 2.75 inch lifts 
  • Monotube internal design
  • Fits 2011-18 RAM 4WD RAM 1500 trucks
  • Gas-charged absorbers
  • 15.12 inches of collapsed & 21.4 inches extended length.
  • Improves control, stability, handling, and overall ride comfort

Looking for the best shocks for your Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 truck? Look no further than the Bilstein 5100 Series! These gas-charged shocks are designed to provide increased wheel travel and improved handling while also delivering superior ride quality and control.

The Bilstein shock absorber is compatible with 2011-2018 RAM 4WD trucks and comes with a front OE coil-over style suspension. The monotube internal design of these shocks ensures that you’ll get unparalleled performance and durability. With its 46mm digressive piston rod and self-adjusting deflective disc valve setting, the Bilstein 5100 Series high-quality shocks are ideal for off-road use. So if you need the best fade-free performance shocks for your Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 for off-road comfort, look no further than the Bilstein 5100 Series!

Pros

  • Improved handling and ride experience
  • Delivers enhanced control, stability, and handling
  • Ideal for off-road comfort

Cons

  • Not compatible with 2WD RAM 1500 trucks

2. Gabriel 49235 Hijacker rear shocks for towing & heavy loads

Gabriel 49235 Hijacker rear shocks for towing & heavy loads

Highlights

  • Ideal for temporarily towing boats and trailers or for heavy loads
  • Help improve handling and reduces the risk of bottoming out
  • Offers up to 1, 100 pounds per pair of leveling capacity 
  • Fits 1994 – 2001 Ram 1500 truck
  • Help level a loaded vehicle for safe driving
  • The shocks inflate just like your tires

Next up in our curated list of best shocks is the Gabriel 49235 Hijacker rear shocks. These shocks provide a temporary towing and hauling solution for your Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 truck. The shock kit fits 1994 to 2001 RAM 1500 trucks. The Hijacker shocks inflate like your tires – air them up before towing to help reduce the risk of bottoming out. It offers up to 1,100 pounds of leveling capacity per pair and is equipped with a super-finished chromed piston rod to inhibit corrosion, ensure proper seal lubrication, and provide a more consistent wear surface. The shocks visibly improve your controllability and comfort under heavy loads. Gabriel is an excellent choice for those seeking quality at an affordable price. If you want to improve the towing capacity of your RAM truck then check out this intuitive guide.

Pros

  • It offers better leveling capacity, durability, and improved handling.
  • These shocks offer decent quality at an affordable price.

Cons

  • They may be too stiff for some users

3. Detroit Axle rear shocks &strut set for 2006-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD 

3. Detroit Axle rear shocks &strut set for 2006-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD 

Highlights

  • Comes in the complete 4pcs kit, including (2) Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly + (2) Rear Shock Absorber Set.
  • Fit 2006-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 (4WD; 5-Lug Wheel Models ONLY)
  • Reduces body shaking and improves handling performance.
  • It is an easy bolt-on install
  • 10 Year of manufacturer warranty

Detroit Axle is probably the best option available for 4WD Ram 1500 trucks with years between 2006-08. The rear shocks from Detroit Axle make complete assemblies ready to install, with no extra work or special tools required. It has premium-style bearings, piston rods, nuts, and bolts that match OE’s specifications. The best thing about these shocks is that they’ve been put through impact, wear, and fatigue testing to help ensure quality and durability.

The Detroit Axel Shock also reduces body shaking and improves handling performance. Installation is easy, and it has an excellent fitment. Plus, the quality is impressive, and it provides excellent driving ease and stability. You also get a 10-year extended warranty with these shocks. So if you are out for a smoother ride, Detroit Axle should be on your shortlist.

Pros

  • It comes as a complete 4-piece kit
  • Reduces body shaking and improves handling performance
  • Easy installation with excellent fitment
  • Provides great driving comfort and stability

Cons

  • It only fits Dodge Ram 1500s from 2006 to 2008

4. Monroe 58640 Load-adjusting shocks for RAM 1500 4WD 

Monroe Load-Adjusting Shock Absorbers 58640

Highlights

  • Ideal for light trucks occasionally hauling, towing varying loads or tow trailers
  • Compatible with 2003-08 RAM 1500 4WD
  • Specially tuned to adjust for comfort and consistency automatically
  • Improved control and greater durability
  • Nitrocarburized rod that provides long service life
  • Assist in maintaining ride height with up to 1,100 lbs. of additional weight
  • Monotube internal design

If you want to make your suspension system more rugged and flexible, consider Monroe 58640 Load-adjusting shocks. Embracing the monotube internal design, these shocks give your light truck an extra edge in carrying varying loads and towing trailers. It comes with a nitrogen gas-charged design that improves ride and handling while helping to maintain tire-to-road contact. It is equipped with a nitrocarburized rod that provides a long service life. The Monroe shocks also feature a self-lubricating fluid seal that helps to retain gas while preventing excessive wear and friction. In addition, the innovative valving delivers greater steering control and improved ride comfort. You can also use these shocks to maintain ride height up to 1,100 lbs. of additional weight. All in all, if you are out for comfort in your light-duty trucks carrying varying loads or tow trailers, then Monroe 58640 is the perfect option.

Pros

  • It comes equipped with all-weather fluid
  • Nitrocarburized rod for long service life
  • Monotube internal design that provides excellent dependable shock dampening

Cons

  • None found

5. Rough Country premium N3 front shocks for 2002-05 4WD RAM 1500

Rough Country premium N3 front shocks for 2002-05 4WD RAM 1500

Highlights

  • Impressive vibration dampening and a smooth highway experience
  • Fit 2002-2005 4WD RAM 1500 with 5.50 to 6.50-Inch Lifts
  • Feature a high-pressure nitrogen charge
  • Offers 10 stages of variable valving
  • Improve handling and ride control
  • Dissipates heat faster and more optimally with its 54mm shock body
  • Built to Military Specs with a Fluid Rate of -40° Celsius
  • Rubber bushings for better shock absorption
  • 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty

Rough Country is a renowned shock brand for Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 trucks. The company offers a wide range of options, from the basic N3 front shocks to more advanced models built to military specs.

The N3 rough country shocks are an excellent choice for those who want a simple, no-frills shock that will get the job done without breaking the bank. These shocks offer impressive vibration dampening and ensure a smooth highway ride experience. It offers 10-stage variable valving so you can fine-tune the ride to your liking. The N3 shocks are also designed to dissipate heat faster and more efficiently, thanks to their 54mm shock body. Its rubber bushings provide better shock absorption. They’re also easy to install, thanks to their bolt-on design.

Rough Country’s military-spec shocks are a great option if you’re looking for a more heavy-duty shock. These shocks are built to withstand the rigors of off-road driving, and they feature a high-pressure nitrogen charge that helps dissipate heat more effectively. They also come with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty, so you can rest assured that they’re built to last.

Pros

  • Rough Country shocks offer impressive vibration dampening
  • They ensure a smooth highway ride experience
  • The shocks are engineered to fit 2002-2005 4WD RAM 1500 with 5.50 to 6.50-Inch Lifts.
  • They offer 10 stages of variable valving.
  • The shocks dissipate heat faster and more efficiently than other brands.

Cons

  • None found

6. Rough Country Performance N3 rear shocks for 4WD RAM 1500

Rough Country Performance N3 rear shocks for 4WD RAM 1500

Highlights

  • Performance rear shocks
  • Fits all 2002-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Models, including 4WD & 2WD
  • Provide a smoother ride and excellent control
  • For RAM trucks with 3.50 to 6.50-Inch Lift Systems
  • Non-adjustable Shocks
  • Boast a 10-Stage Variable Valving
  • Bolt-on and easy to Install
  • High-pressure nitrogen charged
  • 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty

If you’re looking for a set of shocks that will provide a smoother ride and excellent control on rough terrain, then the Rough Country Performance N3 rear shocks are perfect. These are designed specifically for RAM trucks with 3.50 to 6.50-inch lift systems, and they bolt on easily without any modifications required. Plus, they come in a metallic silver color and boast a 10-stage variable valving for optimal drivability and comfort. These non-adjustable shocks are constructed from heavy-duty material and utilize high-pressure nitrogen-charged gas to help attain optimal drivability and comfort on bumpy roads.

Best of all, they’re backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty and are one of the favorites for truck owners. Performance N3 fits perfectly for RAM 1500 trucks made between 2002-08.

Pros

  • Excellent control on rough terrain
  • Easy bolt-on installation
  • Offers 10-stage variable valving

Cons

  • The shocks are non-adjustable

7. Eibach Pro-Truck Sport adjustable heavy-duty front shocks for 19-22 RAM 1500

7. Eibach Pro-Truck Sport adjustable heavy-duty front shocks for 19-22 RAM 1500

Highlights

  • Dampen and reduce the effects and shaking sensation caused by bumpy, uneven, or rough roads
  • Fit all 2019-2022 5.7L Dodge RAM 1500 Models with 4WD & 2WD
  • Reduces vibrating sensations
  • Perfect for Off-Road shocks replacement
  • Monotube-High Pressure internal Design
  • For trucks with 0 to upto 2.75-Inch Lift Mods
  • Come with adjustment options
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Bolt-on for easy installation.
  • For heavy-duty shocks for intense work

Next up in the lineup is the Eibach Pro – a high-performance premium shock for load-intensive operations. This bad boy is designed to dampen and reduce the effects of shaking caused by bumpy, uneven, or rough roads. It does an excellent job of reducing vibrations, making it the perfect shock for off-road replacements.

Moreover, it has an internal monotube-high pressure design ideal for trucks with 0 to 2.75-inch lift mods. The shocks feature adjustment options that allow you to fine-tune the level of dampening. It is made from superior quality materials with unbreakable construction. Eibach backs this product with a limited lifetime warranty, making it a safe investment.

This shock absorber fits all 2019-2022 5.7L Dodge RAM 1500 models with 4WD & 2WD. The only downside to this product is the price tag – it is one of the most expensive shocks on this list. But if you are looking for a heavy-duty option that can take a beating, the Eibach Pro is the way to go.

Pros

  • Reduces the effects of shaking caused by bumpy, uneven, or rough roads
  • Ideal for trucks with 0 to 2.75-inch lift mods
  • It comes with adjustment options
  • Made from superior quality materials with unbreakable construction
  • Excellent choice for towing and hauling heavy loads

Cons

  • One of the most expensive shocks on this list

8. FOX Performance Series 2.0 rear reservoir shock for 2002-05 RAM 1500

FOX Performance Series 2.0 rear reservoir shock for 2002-05 RAM 1500

Highlights

  • Rear reservoir shocks for high-intensity and heavy-duty, long-range rough use
  • The oil/nitrogen reservoir prevents/ handles overheating and choppiness
  • Unmatching shock absorption, ride control, and comfort.
  • Made from a strong, reliable 2″ 6061-T6 aluminum body
  • 2″ External Reservoir for More Oil and Nitrogen
  • The shocks are easy bolt-on to install
  • Works best with 5-6 Inch Lift mods
  • FOX series 2 shocks fit 2002-2005 2WD or 4WD Dodge RAM 1500

If you’re looking to give your Dodge RAM 1500 a severe upgrade, then you need to check out these Fox Performance Series 2.0 shocks. They’re designed for high-intensity, heavy-duty, long-range rough use and come with an oil/nitrogen reservoir to prevent overheating and choppiness. Plus, they provide unmatching shock absorption, ride control, and comfort. The Fox Performance series 2.0 works best with trucks having 5-6 inches of lift mods. Installation is an easy bolt-on, and they fit 2002-2005 2WD or 4WD Dodge RAM 1500 models. The only downside is that they’re expensive compared to standard shocks. So if you are looking for a more advanced shock absorption technology that’s failproof and long-lasting, you might want to consider Fox shocks.

Pros

  • It provides unmatching shock absorption, ride control, and comfort.
  • The oil/nitrogen reservoir prevents and handles overheating and choppiness better than standard shocks.
  • Made of a strong, reliable 2″ 6061-T6 aluminum body
  • Fits 2002-2005 2WD or 4WD Dodge RAM 1500 models

Cons

  • A bit expensive compared to standard shocks

9. Zone Offroad Nitro rear shock for 2006-08 4WD RAM 1500

Zone Offroad Nitro rear shock for 2006-08 4WD RAM 1500

Highlights

  • Designed for trucks with 4-Inch lifts
  • Fit all 2006-2008 4WD Dodge RAM 1500 Models
  • High-quality twin tube steel construction that gives it durable strength
  • Vehicle-specific valving for 4WD RAM 1500
  • Pressurized 50 PSI Nitrogen gas dampens off-road vibrations and helps with smooth control.
  • Easy to install and doesn’t require any modifications.
  • Covered with a limited lifetime warranty
  • More ideal for lightweight operation.

Zone Offroad shocks are for those who don’t wanna spend a lot on shocks for various reasons. The Nitro rear shocks provide optimal stability and vibration dampening for your 2006-08 4WD RAM 1500 trucks with up to 4-inch lifts. It equips high-quality twin-tube steel construction for durability, vehicle-specific valving for 4WD RAM 1500, and pressurized 50 PSI Nitrogen Gas that effectively dampens the vibrations as you drive off-roads and helps with smooth control. The rear shocks are easy to install and don’t require any modifications. Additionally, these shocks are covered with a limited lifetime warranty. You get what you pay for. This shock is one of the cheapest available for 4WD RAM 1500 and is ideal for lightweight operation. It’s not ideal for heavy-duty use. Zone Offroad can be an excellent replacement for factory shocks.

Pros

  • Equips high-quality twin tube steel construction
  • Vehicle-specific valving for 4WD RAM 1500
  • Nitrogen gas effectively dampens vibrations
  • Easy to install
  • It comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not ideal for heavy-duty use
  • Not adjustable

10. SkyJacker Black Max front shocks for 2002-05 4WD RAM 1500

SkyJacker Black Max front shocks for 2002-05 4WD RAM 1500

Highlights

  • Deliver a noticeable ride quality and comfort boost when driving on the toughest terrain.
  • Fits 2002-05 RAM 1500 trucks with 5″ to 6″ Lift Kits
  • Twin-Tube Design for durable operations under heavy loads
  • Easy to install; however moderate skills will help
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Budget-friendly and best for lightweight operations.

SkyJacker Black Max shocks are the ideal option for riders looking to enhance their ride quality and comfort on the roughest terrain. These shocks are designed specifically for trucks with 5 to 6-inch lift kits, and they deliver a noticeable boost in comfort. Engineered for heavy loads and intense use, these shocks are 360° Arc-Welded End Mount with 180° Directional Mounting. They’re also relatively easy to install, making them an excellent value for the money. Plus, they come with a limited lifetime warranty. So if you’re looking for a way to take your truck (that is not used for load-intensive work) to the next level, SkyJacker Black Max shocks are the perfect solution. SkyJacker Black Max is the low-budget front shock option that eliminates vibrations and slacking on your 4WD truck. It won’t just provide improved comfort but will help with better braking controls.

Pros

  • Deliver a noticeable boost in ride quality and comfort
  • Engineered for RAM 1500 trucks with 5″ to 6″ Lift Kits
  • Robust Twin-Tube Design for durable operations under heavy loads
  • Relatively easy to install
  • Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not ideal for heavy-duty operations and loads

11. KYB KG54342 rear gas shock for RAM 1500 2002-18

KYB KG54342 rear gas shock for RAM 1500 2002-18

Highlights

  • 25% more damping performance over original equipment shocks
  • Quick response to load changes and add instant responsiveness to Dodge trucks
  • High gas pressure design provides instant, extra control
  • Monotube internal structure outperforms all other standard shock absorbers
  • Help improve your truck’s stability, steering controls, and stopping distance
  • It reduces the vibrations and shocks on bumpy roads.
  • Affordable shock upgrade for RAM 1500
  • Best for light-duty loads

Last but not least in our list of the best shocks for Dodge RAM 1500 is the rear gas shock from KYB. If you want to improve your truck’s braking ability? Or dampen the vibrations and shocks on the bumpy roads on a sunny day? Maybe you just want to avoid the risk of bottoming out? The KYB KG54342 is probably the best solution for all these problems.

It eliminates up to 25% more shocks and vibration on the top of OE shocks and provides the comfort that you will notice from day one. KYB equips high gas pressure design for instant and extra controllability. This monotube shock outperforms all other standard shocks by a vast margin.

The best thing about this product – is it’s very affordable. You can still improve your light load truck’s stability without breaking the bank, even if you are on a budget. So, if you are looking for the best bang for your buck – don’t look any further.

Pros

  • They are affordable and improve braking ability
  • It reduces vibrations and shocks on bumpy roads
  • It outperforms other standard shocks.

Cons

  • Not recommended for heavy loads and may not be the best option for everyone.

Add bigger tires to your truck to unleash the RAM 1500 beast. Start with this top 9 275/60R20 tires for RAM 1500.

BUYER’s GUIDE: For truck shocks!

When choosing the best shocks for your Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 truck, there are a few things you need to consider. First, you must decide what type of shocks you want. There are two main types of shocks available on the market today:

ram truck shocks buying guide

Monotube vs. Twin-tube style

Both monotube and Twin-tube shocks are typically filled with high-pressure nitrogen gas and oil.

However, monotube shocks are generally more expensive than their twin-tube counterparts, but they offer several benefits. Monotube shocks tend to be more durable and offer a smoother ride. They are also less likely to leak than twin-tube shocks.

Monotube shocks are the way to go if you’re looking for the best possible ride quality. However, twin-tube shocks may be a better option if you’re on a budget.

Diameter and outer core thickness

Next, you need to consider the diameter and outer core thickness of the shocks. Most shocks on the market today have a 2.0-inch diameter. However, some companies offer shocks with a larger diameter, such as 2.5 inches.

As for the outer core thickness, this can vary from one manufacturer to the next. Typically, the thicker the outer core, the better the shock will be at dampening vibrations.

Shock lift

Another vital factor to consider is the lift the shocks provide. If you’re looking for a suspension lift, you’ll need to choose shocks that provide more lift than the factory-installed shocks. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a leveling kit, you’ll need to choose shocks that provide less lift.

You may also have an aftermarket lifter kit installed in your truck with heights ranging from 1 to 5 or 6 inches. In such a case, you will want to choose shocks that fit the lift.

Coilover shocks

Coilover shocks are a type of shock that is becoming increasingly popular in the off-roading world. Coilover shocks offer many benefits, such as adjustable preload, easier installation, and improved suspension travel.

Construction quality

When choosing the best shocks for your Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 truck, you need to ensure you’re getting a well-constructed product. After all, you don’t want to replace your shocks every few months. Shocks made from high-grade aluminum with powder coats are usually more durable.

Brand

Once you’ve decided on the type of shocks you want, it’s time to start looking at different brands. There are many great shock brands available on the market today, each offering its unique benefits.

Some of the best shock brands for Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 trucks include Bilstein, Rough Country, Detroit Axle, and Fox, among others.

Price

Of course, price is always a factor when choosing any product. Shocks can range in price from around $50 to $200 per piece.

You get what you pay for. The cheaper shocks are usually only good for light-duty works, while those shocks withstanding heavy loads and tow weight will be more expensive.

Ease of installation

When installing shocks, some are easier to install than others. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you might want to choose a shock that’s easy to install, like a bolt-on install. Thankfully, most shocks today come with detailed instructions that make installation a breeze.

You will also want to check out this RAM 1500 performance mods that are bolt-on and adds an impressive boost in power.

FAQs: About shocks for Dodge RAM 1500 4×4 trucks

internal structure of shocks

How do I know if my truck needs new shocks?

If your truck bounces more than usual, it’s a good indication that the shocks are worn out and need to be replaced. You may also notice that your truck is bottoming out or that the ride is rougher than it used to be.

When should I replace my Ram 1500 shocks?

It’s generally recommended that you replace your shocks every 50,000 miles or more. However, this can vary depending on how often you use your truck and the type of terrain you drive on. For rough drivers, shocks and struts wear out faster, and you might need to replace them earlier.

Will better shocks improve ride quality?

Yes, better shocks will improve ride quality. If you’re looking for a smoother ride, you’ll want to choose shocks designed to provide a comfortable ride.

Can I replace just the front shocks on my Ram 1500?

Yes, you can replace just the front shocks. However, it’s generally recommended that you replace all four shocks simultaneously to ensure the best results.

Do I need an alignment after installing new shocks?

It’s not necessary to get an alignment after installing new shocks. However, if you’re also replacing other suspension components, such as the springs or control arms, then an alignment might be necessary.

How do I install new shocks on my truck?

Installing new shocks on your truck is pretty straightforward. Most shocks today come bolt-on with detailed instructions that make installation a breeze. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you might want to have a professional do it for you.

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