I am swapping out the 5100 and 5125 on my '97 Tacoma 4WD to the Bilstein 6112 in the front. I am looking into getting the 5165 for the rear, but it was suggested to me to get the 7100's, since they are basically the same as the 5165, but are revalveable, rebuildable and have a short body option at almost the same price. I have compared the specs between similarly sized and valved 5165 and 7100. The 7100 are a little stiffer with a valving of 275/78 and the 5165 are 255/70. Does anybody have any experience with the two? Wondering if there's any differences Also, I like how the 5100 and 5125 handle and ride. The 5125 might be a little stiff when the bed is empty, but when I'm hauling noticeable weight or a trailer, they seem fine. So, I am wondering if the 7100 might be a little stiff compared to the 5165 or if they can be revalved the same as what the 5125 are.
Bilstein 5165 vs 7100
- Thread starter cr500taco
- Start date
broncobowsher
Adventurer
The 5165 are rebuildable and revalvable. But you have to send them to Bilstein and they do the work. Can you rebuild the 7100s at home? Do you have all the right tools and the Nitrogen to recharge them? If you ever need them rebuilt or revalved yo will probably be sending them in anyway.
Betarocker
Adventurer
I run Fox for the simplicity of self rebuilding. I bought the needle valve tools and a nitrogen tank and few extra tools to make the work easier.
I have a spare complete set of shocks and steering dampers that I can swap out as needed and then rebuild on my time as I only have the truck as my daily transportation. The Fox rebuild kits are cheap at Kartek, as are shafts and other pieces if they need replacement. As I go forward, I install Schrader valves to replace the needle valves.
It's crazy how much better my truck drives with a fresh set of shocks. You don't notice the gradual decrease of performance because you get used to it.
I have a spare complete set of shocks and steering dampers that I can swap out as needed and then rebuild on my time as I only have the truck as my daily transportation. The Fox rebuild kits are cheap at Kartek, as are shafts and other pieces if they need replacement. As I go forward, I install Schrader valves to replace the needle valves.
It's crazy how much better my truck drives with a fresh set of shocks. You don't notice the gradual decrease of performance because you get used to it.
