Bilstein Ride Height Adjustable Shock Install - Lift your AT4 or Trailboss!

In this video I install Bilstein's popular ride height adjustable front shock absorbers. We should experience an improved ride, handling and incremental front end lift!
I do plan on getting a wheel alignment to be safe. I also suspect the front end will settle a little more and I will end up with the advertised 1.1” lift. Upper control arms are something I may invest in as soon as I get new wheels.
Thanks to Phobia Auto Care in Martensville and @stevencusson for the shop time!
Bilstein 5100 Front Shock Absorbers for AT4 & Trailboss amzn.to/3pgGVN7
#bilstein #lift #level
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[@Donslife]

Bilstein 5100 Front Shock Absorbers for AT4 & Trailboss amzn.to/3pgGVN7 linktr.ee/donslife - Links to all of my products and discounts

[@lloydgaynor7947]

Great video i recently lift my 2021 dodge ram classic front and back bilstein suspension 2.5 now i have 39"8 in the front and 42"8 in the back runs way better than factory good choice 👍

[@michaelpanacheese604]

Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄 keep the great content coming 👍

[@Donslife]

You too! Merry Christmas 🎄 and Happy Holidays!

[@Maton79]

can't wait for your review on the long run!! so I can do the upgrade on mine :)

[@Donslife]

I expect the front to come down a tiny bit more still. No complaints so far

[@MrHelipilot]

Awesome! Looking forward to a ride quality review.

[@Donslife]

You and me both!

[@ChrisDIYerOklahoma]

GREAT video. I had the Bilstein 5100 shocks/struts on my last truck and loved them. On my current truck (same as yours) I did the rear shocks myself (Bilstein 5100). They knocked down the "butt wiggle" going over bumps...much better control/feel in the rear. I have NOT done the fronts yet. The stock Rancho struts are soft, but are not pissing me off yet. Changing out struts is one task I will pay to have done. And the alignment afterwards. Side note: I was entering the highway in my truck on an onramp doing 40 mph. I gunned it and the tires squealed! hahaa. The CAI, Borla muffler, tuner, etc are fun!

[@Donslife]

So far the fronts are great. Glad your liking your setup!

[@ChrisDIYerOklahoma]

@@Donslife - Hey Don - I just put new tires/wheels on the AT4. Went with Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 3 (295/70 R18) with Fuel wheels (1 offset). The Canadian made tires work out to 34.3" x 11.6". I have about 0.9" more poke out on each side (love that). The ride is phenomial. Anyways, it is now time for these Bilstein 5100 front struts and a little more height (leveling) up front. I had these struts on my last truck and they were excellent.

[@Donslife]

Nice!

[@ChrisDIYerOklahoma]

@@Donslife -- I gotta a video up on my channel of the tires/wheels if you want to take a look. Had to do a little cutting (not bad).

[@DV77737]

Nice! I had the same shocks installed, all four for about $550.00 on the labor, Chevy 2500 Hd gasser 4x4, here in the grate state of Texas and well worth it. Stay warm and cheers

[@Donslife]

Right on!

[@LegacyIndustrial1]

Nice Don. Put the level kit on my F250 from Bilstein and very happy with it. I have an at4 on order and will be doing this as soon as I get it.

[@Donslife]

It’s a pretty affordable improvement. Congrats on the new truck too

[@elkhornpetersen1894]

I have enjoyed watching your videos, Thanks 😊

[@Donslife]

Glad you like them!

[@mtower235]

Nice that’ll be perfect for my trail boss. I’ve added a steelcraft bumper, winch and the high lift mounted to it

[@Donslife]

Sounds great!

[@Jason-pq5vg]

Great video, just curios how much better it rides than the stock ones? I have a 2019 SLT with the 6.2L in it and mine is the x31 which came with the crappy Rancho shocks and I hate how it feels like the wheels bounce off the roads. Thanks.

[@MD-fm8zx]

Would love to see a video on aiming headlights lower. Great video!

[@Donslife]

Pretty easy to do. Maybe I will add it into a part of another video specific to the AT4

[@fabiodoublebroad5389]

Awesome upgrade. I wouldn’t be comfortable doing that myself to my truck though

[@Donslife]

Thanks. This isn’t the first or last suspension I will touch. I used to lower vehicles and the old Ford I-Beams were a pain to swap

[@Johnthedagger]

My Trailboss is going in next week to get 6112 fronts, 6150 rears, beefed up UCA's, and 35" Nitto Ridge Grapplers. Your truck looks great, and I'm looking forward to getting a new look truck with a much improved ride myself. Terrific video👍

[@Donslife]

Thank you for checking it out!

[@ZmannR2]

What’s the part # for the 6112’s?

[@rubencastano6771]

Great vid Don . I was waiting for a few shots of the whole truck outside to see how its looks but im sure thats coming soon. How come you only replaced the fronts and not the back ones too?

[@Donslife]

The back will happen for sure. Just waiting, I have so much going on 😂

[@ecas1272]

Great video my brother

[@Donslife]

Much appreciated!

[@DIYGUY-AT4]

I just ordered mine. I installed the Bilstein 5100 rear shocks and now the truck has a rake in the rear so I'm hoping this will level it out. I did notice that the air box you removed was not the one you put back in. I too have the S&B you have.

[@elkhornpetersen1894]

What settings did you set them at?

[@thehoneydoo]

Great video Don. Did you set the clip to the highest lift? Also, do you think you Can stuff 35’s in there without uca upgrade? I know I will need to make some wheel well adjustments.

[@Donslife]

Hey there! Yes I set it to the top clip. Once everything settled after a few days it looks like I got the 1.1” that’s advertised. 35’s might be doable but depending in the wheel offset, spacers may be in order with the factory uca. I have 1.5” spacers now. I think you would still have to tuck the wheel well liner a tad.

[@anubisgodofgods]

I am struggling between using the 5100 all the way around or the 6112 up front and 5160 in the rear. I would have to replace the upper control arm for sure with the 6112. If I have the 4wd shop do the install it will cost me about $2k for parts thats with Bilstein UCA and $650 labor which includes an alignment.

[@TL-pu7rh]

Hello Don, absolutely love your channel and all your upgrades. Watched all your videos I believe! I also have a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4. My question is: if I install these same shocks on the front, in your opinion what is the biggest tire I could fit without any rubbing issues? Will be putting the new tires on the stock 20” wheels. Thank you sir!

[@Donslife]

Here is what the internet says without any mods: The biggest tire you can fit on a 2021 GMC AT4 running factory stock suspension and rims are a maximum of 34.8-inches. This equates to a 285/75R18 (34.8”) or 285/65R20 (34.6”) with no trimming or rubbing. Now I have a 1.1" lift and a 1.5" spacer currently. If it were me, I would gently jack the front up 1". Turn the wheels full lock. Then measure how many millimeters to on each side of the existing tires I have for clearance. Pay attention to the upper control arm too. Before my spacers I was close to touching. Also keep in mind you'll have suspension travel so I would leave some extra space from whatever your measurements are. This method would perhaps give you a better idea

[@lisa-jeanstockton8585]

Just curious if your still happy with the Bilstein’s? I’ve vacillated a LOT about what I want to do with the suspension wheels and tires on my ‘21 AT4 6.2 and I think I want to go the same direction as you, little lift from the bigger shocks paired with airbags in the back, do you think you will do the rear shocks as well? And if so what would you choose? I’m just looking for a little lift so I can fit a slightly wider tire, and level it out. Thanks! Love your videos!

[@Donslife]

I like them more than ever now! The 1.1” lift is nice, but I recently did some off roading and the front end caught a little air! These shocks where great. I will be adding a pair to the rear too. As for air bags, if you don’t tow over 4-5000 pounds, you may not see the main benefits

[@Sas_Xforce]

hey don where is the next vid ? cause i do mistake i install it at middle it come little bit down __thx

[@Snakes709]

I did this upgrade on my 2019 at4 but i wanted to lower my truck so i bought 5100’s for the base/elevation sierra. Did the rears as well and it rides so much better, especially the rear. No more bouncing feeling.

[@Donslife]

Epic!

[@eckseleven1]

Hmm you've piqued my curiosity. I went with the AT4 because I think it looks the best, but really didn't need the lift. You're telling me you only needed to swap the shocks to lower it or is the more to it?

[@Donslife]

@@eckseleven1 these specific shocks only allow stock height, + 0.55” or + 1.1”. They don’t have a lowering option. You’d need to replace other suspension parts. Depending how low you go, you it can be lots of work.

[@lucasroberts4731]

@eckseleven1 if you want to level the truck you can remove rear 2 inch block and additional bump stop. You will need new u bolts. I did this first then put elevation rear bilsteins on. Rides way better. Will buy fronts and leave at stock height. I coming from a 4/6 lowered nnbs so I don't need lift but wanted leveled

[@mikemrdjenovich2571]

Hi Don, Enjoy all your video's! I'm going to make the change to Bilstein shocks on my 2022 refreshed GMC At4 3.0 Duramax. I'm planning on doing the 1.5 inch lift on the front and 1 inch on the back to keep a little rake. My question is, do I need spacers if I lift the back 1 inch with the Bilstein shocks? Thanks & keep up the good work!

[@Donslife]

Good upgrade. The back ones (5100) are not adjustable like the front. They just accommodate more travel if the back end was altered with an additional lift of 1”. You can experiment with taking the rear blocks out and see if you like the rake still. My blocks are removed but I have air bags now so I can’t tell you exactly what to expect

[@michaelortiz2557]

Hey don i drive a 2017 sierra 1500, im planning on getting these shocks and was curious what setting i would have to put it on to level my truck? Or is a spacer block needed, because it won’t be enough lift to level it out.

[@mrbubbakush]

Did you leave the bump stops in ? I can’t tell when you took it to the shop

[@905canadianmuscle6]

Hey don, fellow Canadian here so props to that! I noticed in the video after the install was done and just before you closed the hood, the S&B CAI went back on! Just curious do you like that intake better than the cold air inductions? Also is the filter for the S&B cleanable or do you have to buy their oiled one to be able to clean? Super nice truck you have the best of the best especially with the L87 376 ci (6.2L)! Nice truck and levelled looks 100x better! Can’t wait for more GM!

[@Donslife]

You have a sharp eye, I put that clip in there on purpose 😃 I like both equally for different reasons. SB = louder intake noise and in-your-face styling. Cold Air Inductions = moderate intake noise but subtle install. We have a new vehicle on order that the Cold Air Inductions will be perfect on. As for the S&B filter, you can order dry or oiled. I ordered oiled, but they shipped dry and I agreed to keep it. I will probably order an oiled replacement when it is time. The Cold Air Inductions one came oiled. Thanks for watching!!

[@905canadianmuscle6]

@@Donslife I bet that’s a new Yukon or Escalade coming, they fit both trucks and full sized SUV’s plus same drivetrain and everything is in the same location under the hood! Thanks for the great content!

[@MrHelipilot]

You beat me to it with the S&B comment!

[@Donslife]

@@MrHelipilot you still get 600 donslife points, just not the full 1000

[@MrHelipilot]

@@Donslife how many points needed for a Bilstein install? 😜

[@paulbutler5067]

I have a 2019 Silverado 1500 RST model. I have been wanting to do a suspension upgrade mainly due to the stock Rancho rear shocks and their inability to control suspension hop over the road for a well controlled ride. I also feel comfortable installing rear shocks myself. However, the fronts are another matter. It will be a much larger expense mainly due to installation costs and I am not sure the gains will be as noticeable or worthwhile as the rears. I do like the idea of leveling the front at the same time. But again cost. Do you think doing the fronts give a more balanced feel to the truck vs. only the rears?

[@Donslife]

Hi Paul, Since I installed them during the winter I won’t have a strong opinion until I get to drive in normal conditions and hook up to a trailer. I plan on doing the rears eventually too

[@matthewweir6345]

Nice, I tried to order them for the Rebel but they are back ordered everywhere.

[@Donslife]

Took about 3-4 months for me

[@davelevesque2050]

Nice upgrade now you just need to add more meat in those wheel wells.. my AT4 came in a month ago and even before bringing it home I had the dealership install some 285/75/18 Duratrac to replace those small 275/65/18.. another 1" gain and less emptiness in the wells.

[@Donslife]

All in the plans.

[@bradyb2233]

Have you had any rubbing? Thinking of going with the same tire. 2021 trail boss

[@davelevesque2050]

@@bradyb2233 I removed the front mud flaps.. there is a slight rubbing full steer on the inner fender felt but I rarely crank the steering full lock. I wouldn't go any smaller.

[@Donslife]

@@bradyb2233 all good here! No rubbing at all

[@user-xq5cm1bv2e]

Now that you’ve had the Bilstein struts on for a while how are the ball joints holding up ? Would you recommend upgrading the upper control arm or has the stock components held up well with the added 1.25 inches of lift ?

[@Donslife]

The 1.1” lift is still performing well. None of the other components have shown signs of wear, I am pretty happy with it as is right now.

[@darylstewart9965]

Hey Don, Ordered Front and Rear ,Was wondering if you need a new alignment after front install, love your vids

[@Donslife]

The front may still be in the right range, but it certainly is worth having it looked at and adjusted if necessary

[@Halfpintfrenchies]

Rule of thumb , anytime you change any kind of suspension parts up front you should do an alignment

[@darylstewart9965]

Hey Don,one more question please, going to install Bilstein front shocks same as yours soon, was wondering how you broke free the upper control arm ball joint without damaging rubber boot ,thx for any info

[@Donslife]

I tapped the side with a mini sledge hammer a few times. Nothing crazy force-wise

[@kirkdunn1379]

I put bilstein AT4 KIT on my elevation with eibach prol lift spring and 2" block in back I could get up to 4" of lift in front if I wanted....on std AT4 setting I was at 3" in front....didn't have a transfer case drop kit so I didn't go any higher.....also had cognito arm to fix stock arm limitations Overall the 5100 are ehh, they are diggressive valved so small stuff you feel bit more.....was ok firmer than stock but think a progressively valved shock would feel better for most, while still handling bigger hits Fir the lift capability and price was awesome....hate spacer and puck systems and will never use them Eibach spring gains another inch over std....no spacers or pucks.....spring will fit any shock or strut that uses stock diameter....for $100 cheaper than spacer kit Pay attn to cv axles if your lifting a TB or AT4.....2 guys at shop I used messed up theirs leveling their trucks....4 in is too high without dropping the 4WD diff....even 3" is pushing it.....even with longer shafts the angle is more important......fwiw Read about quite a few failures (and personally know 4) and stock arm on these are a joke once you see them off the truck......just my experience (had a tundra fail as well yrs ago)

[@Donslife]

Thank for the info Kirk. I have read many of the points you share too.

[@jayteez6960]

Hey Don, love the channel looking forward to doing some of the same mods for my 24 Sierra AT4. Do you still like this upgrade on the suspension? I would like to level my truck but i think i would rather do it with shocks like you did. Also any issues with warranty by doing this? Thanks for you channel cant wait to go through all of your videos.

[@Donslife]

Welcome to the channel! I really like the shocks for the reasonable price. Since the shocks are designed for the truck, I don’t have warranty concerns. Please hit that like button on the videos you enjoy! Cheers!

[@blake_james8959]

Hope you see this but I have a 2019 at4 6.2 and I’m just now replacing shocks and I have the ones you have. I have stock wheels but bigger tire should I use stock clip or go up one?

[@Donslife]

They are a direct fit replacement so really up to you if you want to a tiny bit higher or not. I prefer the 1.1” gain in lift myself

[@hitechrr]

The 2016 sierra was alot easier. I just did mine today. My old shock seems to still be good.

[@darrenprater2678]

Is the bottom cap and top hat off the old strut assembly also what notch did you put the clip in for it to be level

[@Donslife]

Yes you reuse the top hat and bottom cap. The clip is on the top position for the 1.1” lift.

[@elkhornpetersen1894]

I see your video over and saw u used the top settings. So now that used them awayle, how has it been working? I have a grill Gard on my AT4 2020 .

[@Donslife]

They’re really good considering the price

[@alichka19]

So I installed the 5100 Bilstien leveling shocks for my 21 trail boss. Everything was good yesterday I was sitting right around 42 inches on the front fender. This morning I went out and the truck was sitting back at the normal factory height of 40 3/4. Hoping for some advice am I missing something?

[@Donslife]

It will settle a bit. Did you move your clip to a higher position before installing?

[@scottbice9741]

Do you have an update on this modification? How different is the ride quality? Are you gonna swap out the rear shocks or there's no need because of the air bags?

[@Donslife]

I haven’t done a video update specifically for the shocks. For the investment, they are big time worth it and a better ride. I think I will eventually replace the rears, but to your point, I may not reap the full benefits due to the air bags

[@user-ec6hi7dj9y]

Thanks for the video! Very informative! I have the Chevy version of this truck and looking to get the same shocks front and rear. Was it safe to do this without changing the upper control arm? I’m not looking to change the UCA just yet. But don’t want to be unsafe either

[@Donslife]

It is not unsafe to keep the stock UCAs for these specific shocks. Any more increases, you would need replacement UCA’s.

[@user-ec6hi7dj9y]

@@Donslife how about when you upgraded wheels and tires? Cuz I did go up to 34” tires. Thanks for the response btw

[@ronh9384]

Good video Don. Any particular reason you didn’t buy the front Bilstein struts with the springs already on them? Also do you have a video on the air bag install? Thanks Ron

[@Donslife]

No particular reason. I will link both videos for you: Bags: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXOyiYpmp8iHqqM Compressor : kzbin.info/www/bejne/pn2mepyXq9Z-qqc And some videos on switches too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJ2npI18ftejd5Y

[@ronh9384]

@@Donslife Great. Thanks Don. Really enjoy the content. Ron

[@GhSt-nm9hs]

Hey Don, I just picked up a 2022 Sierra 1500 AT4 (3.0l diesel) and going to install the Bilstein 5100s. What setting do you recommend for the front shocks? I'd like to keep a bit of rake as I tow a trailer (about 5000 lbs) and don't want any reverse rake going on. On the other hand, I'd like the truck as level as possible. Would you go notch 2 (0.55") or 3 (1.1")?

[@Donslife]

I think you’d be fine on clip 2 or 3 with that weight. Keep in mind that the draw bar and the trailer height can make a bit of difference

[@offroader4715]

Would like to see you with a 6” lift on 37’s!

[@Donslife]

If I didn’t have to worry about towing things with this truck, I would have fun doing that!!

[@zway7144]

Hi torque aspects for all the the parts ?

[@Joshua-xj4go]

I caught the S&B swap at the end. I think it's more purdy

[@Donslife]

😆 That was a good little easter egg 🥚

[@tylermatthews6377]

Don what are your thoughts on sst 2” lift with the 5100s maxed out in the front and add rear air bags to make up the difference? Wouldn’t that give you 3” in the front over the factory lift

[@Donslife]

It is a good question, but I think the 5100’s are not designed to work with the extra 2” you be adding to the shock travel

[@sendog1020]

Looks nice, are you having oil consumption issues with your 6.2? My 2020 AT4 6.2 is consuming oil and GM says it’s normal 🤬🤬

[@Donslife]

No I haven’t. My wife has a 2016 6.2 in her Escalade and neither of us are experiencing that issue.

[@MrWillyhsh]

Hi Don after lifted 1.1 inch do you have a problem using 4 wheel drive , either 4auto and 4hi.

[@Donslife]

Everything works as it should. All modes

[@johnnyp143]

Hi Don, Did you install these front shocks before or after you replaced the rear? If you did fronts before rear, I'd be interested in knowing your height measurements with ALL Bilstein's installed,

[@Donslife]

I did the front way before the rear. Problem is the rear had air bags 1st so it isn’t possible to confirm the height measurement accuracy now

[@ceegee6261]

Are you going to match the rears? Are the bilsteins stiffer than the ranchos? And lastly what 2inch spacers are you using and have you had any issues with them and did you have to trim your studs?

[@Donslife]

I do plan on replacing the rears too. They are stiffer but their digressive valves do a great job of absorbing the bumps making things less dramatic. Keep in mind these are an upgrade but you can spend way more too if you want the best. 1 have 1.5” spacers and no trimming was needed using the 18” factory wheels

[@ceegee6261]

Thanks

[@somekidzenvy]

I’ve been thinking of doing this for my trail boss. How are they holding up? Still on stock upper control arms right?

[@Donslife]

Has been great. Stock UCA’s and no issues at all

[@zway7144]

Any control arms recommendation?

[@brianjaworek6879]

Great video on the 5100’s. Are the shocks still holding the original height after install? I plan on installing a 285 60/20 tire and don’t want to go the route of a 1.75” or 2” level if I don’t have to. I think the 1.1 will work without any trimming

[@Donslife]

I think it’s safe to say they are holding at 1”. It is tough to confirm with tread wear and of the tire pressure is off a little

[@thomasaquino2251]

I’m still curious which height setting you used ? Lowest, middle, or highest ? Thx. Great video. Also would you recommend changing the UCAs ???

[@RTGOsiris]

Did 4 wheel auto drive remain intact with these new shocks?

[@Donslife]

No problem whatsoever. Partly why I chose them

[@4Cabin]

I'm told you must change out the upper control arms as well in order to properly lift/level the AT4 and Trail Boss front end. Bielstein sells those larger upper control arms as well does Ready Lift. If you lift/level the front AT4/Trail Boss without up grading the UCA, it puts the front drive at a permeant new angle that can damage the CVs and other frontend components. The GMC dealer warned me about this. They will install a front level kit on the 1500's but just not on-AT4/Trail Boss trucks because GM wont allow them to change out the UCA. Has anyone else researched this and seeing/hearing same?

[@Donslife]

My research led me to these shocks specifically because they don’t move the upper ball joint or CV axles out of their specified range. Don’t get me wrong, a heavier duty UCA to compliment any change in the suspension geometry is a smart upgrade. These shocks are specifically for AT4 and Trailboss to work with the factory lift which is why they only have a 0-1.1” adjustment. All of the level or lift kits that I have found start at 1.75”, which is ‘replacement UCA’ territory

[@4Cabin]

@@Donslife Okay thanks for the follow up. That is a different and good twist on the geometry aspect. I really want to level my truck but hate to have to change out the UCAs. Looks like the Bilsteins are the way to go.

[@scottburton4171]

Hey, the plastic caps over the bolts on top of the struts, what is the correct way of taking them off. Thx

[@scottburton4171]

Do you squeeze them and pull up, I'm just not seeing how they pop off, Thx

[@4Cabin]

Just checking back in on this. Ive not yet made a move to level my truck yet but curious if the set up on the front is still working out all good. I really want to get the rake out of my AT4.

[@Donslife]

Everything with mine is just fine still. It doesn’t raise it very much in the front. Just an inch

[@4Cabin]

@@Donslife Thank you. Have you left the original front coils or did you replace those? I read somewhere that replacing the stock coils is not required but an aftermarket longer coil is recommended with the Bilstein if your going to front level up.

[@Donslife]

@4Cabin I have the stock coils

[@ls2novassr23]

Don, how much should it cost for a shop to replace the shocks on the coil overs like your friend did for you? Awesome content.

[@Donslife]

Thank ls man. I just paid for shop labour. Less than $100 for sure. Less hassle than renting a used spring compressor

[@ls2novassr23]

I agree. I've seen some people get messed up bad using the cheap style spring compressors.

[@twinny5032]

With the 1.1” lift, do you need to change out the stock UCA?

[@Donslife]

I didn’t need to. The ball joints are all looking good and not at risk

[@TheFishinGnBeerGuy]

Hi don. I have a 2022 sierra 1500 at4 . I wanted to do level out my truck with bilstein 5100 like yours. Do I need a new UCA too?

[@Donslife]

Thanks for watching the video. You won’t get as level as a true level kit, but you will come a bit in the front end. You don’t need new UCA’s with this upgrade, but if you want something heavier duty than stock, it is an option. All of my CV angles and ball joints look good with just the shocks installed. I can still use Auto4WD too, which is not recommended on many level kits.

[@e90steez]

Nice upgrade! UCAs next?

[@Donslife]

Probably when the next wheels get picked out

[@bodaks13]

Hello I was wondering if u set these at 2.5 do u still need to add the 2.5 spacer lift

[@Donslife]

Not sure what you’re referring to. In the video I adjusted the ride height to the 3rd position (+1.1”). Nothing else was added.

[@MistaDontPlay34]

So you left the factory ranchos on the rear?

[@dadd7570]

Can you tell me where you purchased your gas cap flag sticker, I’m having trouble finding it anywhere. Thanks. My mistake. Thanks for responding. Your truck is very impressive

[@Donslife]

Sorry I don’t have any stickers on my truck

[@trailbosschrispayne5454]

you keep the ranchos in the rear? Also any plans to replace the A arms. Being told any additional lift over factory those arms are weak. TIA

[@Donslife]

Because I have air bags in the back I didn’t swap out the ranchos. I may upgrade the back still since my heavy trailer now has a permanent home at the lake. We’ll see. As for the UCA, Yes I think they are a weak point, lifted or not and I am considering an upgrade at some point. The conservative 1.1” shock lift I wouldn’t classify as a front lift l, just my opinion.

[@trailbosschrispayne5454]

@@Donslife nice. I tow as well Jw. I want that same set up. A small lift up front.

[@henrythompson5624]

How are the new shocks holding up for you make a update please

[@Donslife]

For the price they are worth every penny. They are holding up very well. Most notably when they are put to work in more aggressive situations. On a smooth road you wouldn’t notice too much

[@henrythompson5624]

@@Donslife thanks for the good information I'm going to try them to see how they hold up for me lite towing I do

[@lochranegary4275]

Don... do you think there would be a problem running these shocks with the .55" setting if I already have the 1.75" leveling kit w/ UCA's? I have the Ready Lift Kit.

[@Donslife]

I don’t think these shocks are intended for use in conjunction with a level kit. I would contact Bilstein to be sure. Once you add more height, you’ll want a shock with the right amount of piston travel.

[@lochranegary4275]

If you look on their website for compatibility, do not say anything about a different shock for a leveling kit. However, I did ask their tech-support team and am awaiting a response. I will update you what I hear.

[@dglo6985]

Hello what up size tire would now fit after installing this shock?

[@Donslife]

Might get away with a 285 width now. Without trimming that is. Sidewall would have to remain the same ratio or lower. Not higher

[@ghislainblanchard6741]

Hi Don after you install the new shocks do you do a wheel alignement

[@Donslife]

I would recommend it. Mine is probably super close to to correct, but I will still have it checked and done if needed.

[@ghislainblanchard6741]

@@Donslife Tank you

[@stevemorcombe9723]

hi don , steve from australia , i have the same gmc at4 which has been converted to a genuine right hand drive vehicle at massive cost here but theres the joys of living on the bottom of the world ha ha but meantime i have appreciated your utube info articles so well done , as a fellow towing nut like you , my caravan is 3500 kg laden with 345kg on the tow bar , recently i installed rear air bags as well and just finished a 4500km trip over 5 weeks , all went very well , as someone who has raced high speed cars for decades i am keen to install the billstien 5100 in the front as well and ask why you didn,t install on the rear as well , and assume u found less bounce with bump and rebound on the front ? also i am trying to find a long range fuel tank to install (200 litres approx), apparently chev have one avail for there 1500 , do you have any advice on where i might source one from the states ? finally , take a look at Fab Four bumpers usa , at the Matrix front bar with nudge bar , i have installed one , it looks great and u can mount a uhf ariel on it , plus a mercedes van reversed into the gmc recently and the van had thousands of $ damage to its rear mean time the gmc and bar was undamaged with no scratches (phew) it wasnt cheap but the cool and aggressive bar saved the day , worth a look , look forward to your comments , soz for the long comment , regards steve m

[@Donslife]

Hi Steve, I didn't install the rear bilsteins for two reasons...I had air bags, which I felt would inhibit some of the benefits. Also, supply chain issues. I also looked into a large tank. I don't know if bed length will play into it, but you might need a longer bed to accommodate an OEM option used on the HD gas trucks. I really don't know, but the companies that make aftermarket tanks don't seem to list one for the AT4 at the moment. (titanfueltanks.com) One day I may get some aggressive bumpers, we'll see! Cheers!

[@stevemorcombe9723]

@@Donslife hi don , we had a 2021 silverado 1500 on a hoist next to the at4 on a adjoining hoist , both are the same in the tank area , there is a mob here called "longranger" tanks , 201Litres , it had just been fitted to the chev today and will fit the at4 so issue solved , im going to install the bilsteins front and rear to help with the extra 100kg of fuel , FYI , regards steve

[@Donslife]

Excellent! Nice find

[@horacio_guerrero]

Hi Don!! I order my 2023 AT4 1500, and I’m getting ideas all ready. I want my truck level as soon as I get it. Do you recommend this upgrade or the 1.5” Readylift leveling kit. A want to fit 285/65R20 on the stuck rims.

[@Donslife]

Congrats. The Ready Lift will get you there for wider wheels

[@horacio_guerrero]

Thanks for all the videos!!

[@eduardomorua6251]

Did you use parts from the ranchos for the belsteins

[@Donslife]

You have to retain some parts from the Ranchos as per the instructions. I’ve heard stories of some shops not following the instructions and missing a critical install steps

[@scottburton4171]

Hi, getting my 2023 AT4 1500, 6.2 in April. I have been told you need to replace the UCA,'s when doing the 1.75 leveling kit. Is this correct? Plan on replacing with the Bilsteins 5100, they say it puts the stock UCA's ball joints at the wrong angle, your thoughts. Thx

[@Donslife]

My research has led me to the same conclusion with the 1.75” level kits - replace the UCAs. My research also led me to the Bilstein 5100 At4 / trailboss specific front shock with 0-1.1” adjustable lift - CV angles and ball joints remain within spec. This is why I chose them. I didn’t want a level kit, just an inch in the front was good for me

[@Donslife]

Also if you’re concerned, you can replace the ranchos with the Bilsteins and leave them at 0” clip setting instead of the 1.1” setting.

[@brian5975]

That’s one of the decisions as to why i purchased the Denali

[@Donslife]

To avoid the Rancho’s or you wanted the adaptive ride control?

[@brian5975]

@@Donslife ARC and no off-road..

[@allenmoore4547]

Do you have a 10 month update on the mod? I have a 2022 AT4 and wanting to go this same route. Thank you in advance!

[@Donslife]

I can tell you in here in the comments...They have been great, but I am looking at changing the back ones, so if that becomes a reality, you'll get a video update too

[@AlaskaErik]

I just found out I'm going to have the fronts done professionally!

[@Donslife]

I am loving mine

[@ls5454ss]

Hey bud. Did you wind up having to get an alignment after doing this? Or was everything still golden? Thanks!

[@Donslife]

I had it checked. It was within range still. Periodically you should get it checked anyway since all the abuse the suspension and steering go through, it could be out a little already.

[@ls5454ss]

@@Donslife thanks!

[@edscorsese]

May I ask where you jacked up the truck to put the jack stands in the correct spots? Thanks!

[@Donslife]

Along the frame

[@edscorsese]

I tried that but it seemed like the floor jack was going to slide off. There's a black greasy substance on the frame.@@Donslife

[@Donslife]

@@edscorsese I might have put 4x4 wood post blocks under the jack so it can’t roll. Plus it give you extra lift range

[@bdhouse6153]

I want to do the same shocks on my 2020 AT4 with a Readylift 2 SST lift kit. Will they work using the lowest clip setting?

[@Donslife]

They are a direct replacement for the ranchos, but I’d call Bilstein tech support to be sure they’ll be okay with the RL2SST. Let us know what you find out

[@johnniecarpenteriii614]

Where did you get the blackout badges from?

[@Donslife]

Try 404parts.com

[@jimb3540]

I know you did this upgrade 2 years ago; I bought a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT about 8 months ago with the factory 2" lift (Trail Boss/AT4 lift) option and I'm considering the Bilstein 5100 upgrade. Couple of questions, did adding these with the setting set at the 1.1" lift require a front-end alignment? I'm assuming it did, however I didn't see where you mentioned it in the video. Also, is the Bilstein part number for the front struts correct in your link? The link list BILSTEIN 24-309509 Shock Absorbers. Just verifying correct part number. Also, do you recall the part number for the rear Bilsteins? Only asking because when ordering suspension parts for my truck with the added factory lift, some of these parts places become confused because it's not an Trail Boss/AT4, and tell me the struts/shocks won't work, even though it's the exact suspension lift as both. Thanks

[@Donslife]

Hi there! I had my alignment checked. It was within spec. I would go to Bilstein's site and look up the exact part numbers for non-AT4/Trailboss trims here: offroad.bilstein.com/en/products/bilstein-b8-5100/

[@034bleeder]

Will doing this require a front end alignment?

[@Donslife]

It might be out a little. Mine was still in the pass range, but it wouldn’t hurt to have it checked since they can sometimes be out for other reasons too

[@lukehaynes481]

Did you have it aligned

[@Donslife]

Didn’t need to fortunately. Still within spec when they checked it

[@0g_str8up20]

How safe are the snap rings ??

[@Donslife]

Incredibly safe

[@freddyp4189]

Awesome shocks, since it's such a minor "lift" does 4 wheel auto functionality stay intact? You are gonna love that blade in my opinion it's the best one out there.

[@Donslife]

Yes Auto is ‘Safe’ which is a big reason I went this way. I use auto pretty much in the winter only, but we get 5 months of ice and snow 🥶

[@freddyp4189]

@@Donslife Sounds like a logical choice, thanks for the vid. Can't wait for side profile view.

[@cjlos2050sp]

Control arms don't need to be upgraded when lifting a trailboss or At4?

[@Donslife]

It is recommended with a level kit yes, this is not a level kit

[@cjlos2050sp]

Isn't the result the same between a level kit and the Bilsteins? They both lift the trucks changing the angle of the ball joint? Or am I missing something.@@Donslife

[@coreyandashleysumma2667]

not sure how shocks vs leveling kits affects the suspension. Im not the mechanically inclined. I do know that if you get a leveling kit you will want to replace the upper control arms. Seen plenty of failures on FB Groups when people do kits and do replace the UCA. Because with the factory lift plus any extra lift it puts a ton of extra stress on the joints.

[@coreyandashleysumma2667]

I ordered the ReadyLift 2" leveling kit with UCAs. Just waiting for my rims and tires to come in and do it all at once.

[@Donslife]

These shocks at 1.1” extra lift are okay without the need for UCA’s. When I get a larger wheel set up I will likely add UCA’s and set the shock appropriately.

[@jeffwatts4199]

Did you replace the rear with Bilstein's as well?

[@Donslife]

Not yet

[@kritzas84]

@@Donslife When you do replace the rears, will you use the same ride adjustable 5100?

[@Donslife]

The rears are a different version of the same series. I might go with a reservoir set up. Not sure yet

[@romadzero]

Is this upgrade safe for the Auto 4WD system?

[@Donslife]

In my opinion. Yes. Part of the reason I chose these

[@Lucky13Twice]

So you didn't get coilovers, you used the old coils?

[@Donslife]

The original coils get reused with this model

[@shawnl4756]

What brand wheel spacers are those?

[@Donslife]

Richeer. I am happy with them, they are linked in my video description. I looked for Bora during the pandemic but these were all I could find that seemed decent. Here is the video if you want to see it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6TKhGyGp9x-d9U

[@bernieloco3145]

Did you have to do alignment after install!!!!!

[@Donslife]

You can, but mine was within spec when I took it in for my oil change

[@marcoa2222]

Do you have to do this if you do airbags?

[@Donslife]

Not at all. Completely optional

[@marcoa2222]

Does it require alignment after doing these shocks?

[@Donslife]

Mine didn’t. Had it checked during an oil change. It was still within spec

[@Pixma3mp]

Will this work with rwd 22 sierra?

[@Donslife]

This specific model number in the video is for the AT4 or Trail Boss only. They have other models that provide height adjustment. I would go to Bilstein’s website and have a look.

[@everdelatorre]

Off topic but I thought you were running the SnB intake?

[@Donslife]

I am. You haven’t kept up with the videos 😂. The Cold Air Inductions one was a review and now it is in our 2022 Esclade. The S&B is in the AT4

[@everdelatorre]

@@Donslife 😆 i got worried because I watched this video about 3 minutes after I ordered the SnB intake, I'll try and catch up on the videos, Thanks for your response.

[@everdelatorre]

@@Donslife when I install my SnB intake, will I have to have the computer reflashed Don?

[@theikandy]

Did you lower your headlight? Your vehicle is aiming higher, lower the headlights if you haven't!

[@Donslife]

Haven’t yet, but yes aiming them correctly is important

[@abdullahalzuwayed8211]

do u need uca ??

[@Donslife]

Nope. Not as is. But when I upgrade to different wheels, I might pick some up