If you own a Dodge truck, then we assume that you either use it to carry weight or drive through rough terrains. Well, whatever the case might be, to ensure stability and balance of the truck, it will require a high suspension level.
The Dodge Ram 3500 is one of the leading trucks by the company and is typically used to carry weight while ensuring a smooth, balanced performance. This would be impossible if you have a low level of suspension and will significantly damage the vehicle.
Finding the top-performing shock for your truck is important to make sure that it is balanced and has the ability to withstand all the weight that you put into it. Now, there are hundreds of shocks available in the market and finding the right one is not always easy.
However, we have researched the market and handpicked some of the best shocks for Dodge Ram 3500 4×4 available for you and in this guide, we will review those products.
What Are The Best Shocks For Dodge Ram 3500 4×4?
Bilstein 5100 Shocks Front Pair
One of the best shocks for Dodge 3500 diesel by Bilstein and provides an extraordinary performance.
Detroit Axle 4WD Front And Rear Shock Absorbers
A high quality shock set available in the market right now which ensures better stability and handling.
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Rear Pair
An industry leading pair of shock absorbers by Bilstein for the rear of your vehicle.
Monroe 34777 Gas Magnum Truck Shock Absorber
An extremely durable and reliable shock absorber sold individually at an affordable price.
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set
An expensive shock absorber set known for its technology, performance, and longevity.
Excellent choice of gas shocks for your truck, available at an incredibly reasonable price.
Detroit Axle 2WD Front And Rear Shock Absorbers
Although it is suitable for 2WD vehicles, it works for Dodge Ram 3500 4×4 trucks perfectly.
Best Shocks For Dodge Ram 3500 4×4 Reviews
Bilstein 5100 Shocks Front Pair for 94-13 Dodge RAM 2500 3500 4WD with 0-2.5in Lift
Bilstein is a reputed manufacturer of shocks and is a trusted name in the industry for the production of some top-performing products. The Bilstein 5100 Shocks Front Pair is a recommended product for the Dodge Ram 3500 4×4. 
These shocks will improve the shock absorption of your truck and significantly increase the balance and stability. You will notice a difference as soon as you install it and make sure that you enjoy a comfortable ride on the road.
This front pair helps you to improve the steering and control of the vehicle by balancing the contact between the road and the tires. It also makes it easier for the driver to turn and increases braking performance.
Durability is not an issue in this as it is made up of sturdy materials and lasts for a long time. You do not have to worry about the installation process as all the required items will be included in the package and all you have to do is follow the instructions and install it accordingly.
In addition to that, it lifts up the vehicle by 0.25 inches and features a better performance compared to similar items. However, the cost of this product is a bit pricey in comparison to other shocks.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for 4WD trucks
- Has a weight for 15 lbs.
- Dimensions are 28 x 6 x 6 inches
- Provides a lift of 0.25 inches
Pros
- Improves shock absorption
- Better steering and control
- Easy installation
- Durable and sturdy
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Detroit Axle – 4WD Front and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2003-2013 Dodge Ram 3500
If you want to replace the heavy duty shocks for Dodge Ram 3500, the Detroit Axle 4WD Front And Rear Shock Absorbers are an ideal choice, especially for the 2003 to 2013 models. 
The package includes a total of 4 shock absorbers, 2 for the front and the other two for the rear part. It is a high-performing shock and is mainly suitable for 4WD trucks.
Manufactured using steel, it greatly increases the quality of steering and vehicle control. It also improves shock absorption and reduces the risk of damage to your truck.
Top quality construction ensures that the shocks are sturdy and provide great performance for a long time. In addition to that, it has the ability to protect itself from dirt, debris, mud, and other contaminants.
The package includes a buyer’s guide and step-by-step instructions to install the shocks in your truck. The installation process is easy and the O-ring ensures a proper fit and pressure on the inner tubes.
It meets all of our requirements that a good shock in the industry must possess. The product is available at an affordable price and you get the complete package instead of spending money and time looking for separate shock pairs. However, the only downside of this product is that it lifts the rear part of the truck by an inch.
Highlighted Features:
- Features 2 front and 2 rear shocks
- Comes with an instruction manual
- Manufactured using solid metal
- Suitable for 2003 to 2013 Dodge Ram 3500 models
Pros
- Outstanding shock absorption
- Affordable price
- Long-lasting performance
- Protects itself against mud, dirt, debris, etc.
Cons
- Lifts truck rear by an inch
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Rear Pair Compatible with Ram 3500 4WD
You can never go wrong with the product quality, performance, and durability offered by the shocks manufactured by Bilstein. The Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Rear Pair is another great shock pair produced by the company. 
Package includes a pair of rear shocks that is mainly suitable for 4WD and RWD trucks. It provides outstanding and efficient performance in Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks.
This rear shock pair makes sure that it improves the handling of the vehicle and significantly reduces the impact of vibration on the road. Not only that, but it ensures better control of your truck and also reduces the damage due to wear or tear of the steering components.
In addition to that, these shocks are durable and last for a long time, allowing you to easily carry weight and drive through rough terrains. You do not have to sweat yourself while installing the rear pair as it comes with all the necessary parts and detailed instructions.
Installation can be done within minutes and will provide you with excellent driving comfort as it has a high shock absorption. This rear shock pair will lift the rear of your truck by at least an inch and the cost of this product is a bit high compared to other competitive products.
Highlighted Features:
- Package includes 2 rear shocks and installation items
- Manufactured for 4WD and RWD vehicles
- Has a weight of 12 lbs.
- Lifts the rear of the truck by an inch
Pros
- Excellent comfort and control
- Reduces vibration and steering damage
- Easy installation
- Durable and efficient
Cons
- Pricey compared to similar items
Monroe 34777 Gas-Magnum Truck Shock Absorber
If you are searching for a high quality shock absorber for your truck at a reasonable price, the Monroe 34777 Gas-Magnum Truck Shock Absorber is the perfect choice for you. 
The product has been specifically designed to improve shock absorption in the 1999 to 2003 models of the Dodge Ram 3500 in the industry. It is a complete package for your van or truck as it improves stability, handling, and control.
Not only that, but it improves the weight carrying capacity of your vehicle and allows you to drive at a decent speed even on bumpy or rough roads. It also makes it easier for you to turn the truck easily and reduces the impact of bumps on the road.
Unlike the majority of shock absorbers, this one is sold individually and not in pairs or sets. It is very easy to install and you will start to see the difference in your driving comfort and experience from the first day.
Fade resistant and painted shock absorbers look stylish on trucks and last for a long time. It is a sturdy and reliable product and will ensure a top quality performance of your truck.
You do not have to worry about the cost because as we discussed earlier, it is extremely affordable. However, the only downside is that it does not perfectly fit the front of the vehicle.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for 1999 to 2003 Dodge Ram 3500 models
- The exterior is painted
- Weigh about 6 lbs.
- Available as a single shock
Pros
- Reasonable price
- Sturdy and reliable
- Improves stability, control, handling, etc.
- Reduces impact of vibration
Cons
- Does not fit the front of the truck perfectly
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set 2003-2010 for Dodge Ram 3500 4WD
The Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set is another great product we will discuss by the company. The quality, performance, and durability of this product ensure the reputation of the brand and surely do not disappoint at all. 
Package includes a complete set of shock absorbers with 2 front and 2 rear shocks suitable for your truck. The product has been specifically manufactured for use in the 2003 to 2010 models of the Dodge Ram 3500 4×4.
It improves the handling, controlling, and steering performance of the vehicle by a notch. These shocks use monotube technology and feature fade resistance abilities that reduce vibration impact and damage to the steering compartment.
Not only that, but it improves the stability of your truck by lifting the rear part of the vehicle by 2.5 inches and also lifts the entire frame by at least an inch. Durability is never an issue with the products offered by the brand and these shock absorbers last for a long time.
Both the performance of carrying weight and driving on rough roads will be improved with the installation of this set. You will find all the required items for installation in the package and you can easily install the shocks within a few minutes without much hassle.
However, the only problem with this shock set is that it is a bit expensive if we compare it with similar products.
Highlighted Features:
- Features monotube technology
- Lifts rear of the vehicle by 2.5 inches
- Includes 2 front and 2 rear shocks
- Provides a 1-inch frame lift
Pros
- Extraordinary durability
- Improved stability and control
- Simple install procedure
- Reduces the risk of steering compartment damage
Cons
- Expensive in comparison with similar products
Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks set – 03-12 Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 4WD with 2-3″ leveling kits
Now, we are going to discuss the Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks Set available in the market. It is an ideal choice for your vehicle in case you are looking for a good quality set of shock absorbers. 
Manufactured specially for the 2003 to 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 4WD, this set significantly elevates the overall performance of the truck on the road. It allows the vehicle to provide a more stable performance while carrying weight and driving on rough terrains.
In addition to that, it improves the controlling and handling of the truck, allowing the driver to turn and balance it better. The product reduces the damage caused by the wearing of the steering components and also decreases the impact of vibration on the vehicle.
Similar to the product discussed above, it also comes with a complete set which includes 2 front and 2 rear shocks along with all the items required for installation. The installation process is extremely simple and the shocks last for a long time without any sort of overheating.
You will experience a front lift of 3 inches and a rear lift of at least 2 inches after installing the shocks. The cost of the product is affordable given the quality, longevity, and performance. However, the only problem is that the driving experience is not that comfortable with this shock set as the vehicles feel a bit stiff.
Highlighted Features:
- Includes 2 front and 2 rear shocks
- 3-inch front lift of the truck
- Lifts the rear of the truck by 2 inches
- Suitable for 2003 to 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 4WD
Pros
- Excellent longevity
- Budget friendly
- Better stability and balance
- Improves control and damage prevention of the truck
Cons
- Driving feels slightly stiffer compared to other trucks
Detroit Axle – 2WD Front & Rear Shock Absorber Assembly Replacement for Dodge Ram 1500 2500 3500
Last but not least, we will talk about another great product by the Detroit Axle 2WD Front and Rear Shocks Absorbers available on the market. 
The Detroit Axle shock absorber set we discussed earlier was suitable for 4WD vehicles, while this one is particularly manufactured for 2WD trucks. This set includes 2 front and 2 rear shocks that help to improve the overall functionality of the truck.
It is one of the best shock replacement sets and is suitable for Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 along with several other SUVs, vans, and trucks. These shocks have the ability to meet the requirements of your trucks efficiently and ensure outstanding performance.
Due to the excellent product quality, it ensures better control, handling, turning and so on. Not only that, but it fits your vehicles properly and is extremely durable, allowing you to rely on this set for a long time.
This product significantly reduces the impact of the bounce of the truck and makes sure that the damage to the steering components and other internal parts of the vehicle is at a minimum.
The installation process is very simple and can be completed within a few minutes. You will find all the necessary items included in the package and the shock set is available at an affordable price. However, the problem with this set is that the shocks make a squeaking noise after a few days of installation.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for 2WD vehicles
- Features a complete shock absorber set
- Meets requirements of SUVs, trucks, etc.
- Includes all the installation materials
Pros
- Reasonable price
- Reduces bounce and vibration
- Lasts for a long time
- Increases handling, turning and controlling capacity
Cons
- Makes a squeaking noise
How to Choose The Best Shocks for Dodge Ram 3500 4×4?
Shock absorbers are essential for your vehicle if you want a stable and great performance. But purchasing the wrong shocks can ruin both your money and the health of your vehicle.
There are quite a few factors that you will have to take into proper consideration before choosing the best shocks for Dodge Ram 3500 4×4. These are:
Shock Size
When it comes to choosing a shock for your truck, make sure that you choose the correct size depending on your vehicle. Choosing the wrong size will prevent the shock from fitting into the vehicle and will not provide the expected performance.
This will not only cause you to replace the shocks frequently, but will also result in you spending more money than required on shock absorbers. In addition to that, the truck will be prone to damage and you will not receive any ease or advantage in terms of stability, controlling, handling, and many more.
Installation of a shock that is smaller than the required size will not be able to help with the suspension of the vehicle and the fitting will be loose as well.
On the other hand, if you choose a larger size of shock absorber, it will not fit properly and you might have to cut it off a little to make sure that it fits the space. Cutting the shock will significantly affect the performance and efficiency of the product.
Installation Features
One factor that you must consider while searching for a shock absorber is its installation process and whether it is simple or not. The majority of shocks available in the market are assembled in the factory before delivery.
Make sure that you choose one of those as assembling shocks on your own can be a hassle and affect the efficiency and performance of it.
Pre-Assembled shock absorbers are super easy to install and you will not need more than a few minutes. All the required tools and parts are included in the package to make things easier for you.
If you have enough knowledge of the vehicle and shocks, you can install them on your own. Otherwise, you will have to take help from a professional to make sure that it fits perfectly.
Safety
Safety of a shock absorber is important to make sure that it works properly with the vehicle, ensuring great stability, performance, and many more. The safety of the product is ensured by making sure that it meets all the requirements and safety standards.
Before installing the shocks, properly check the design and see whether it matches the design and methods of the manufacturing protocols. In addition to that, you will also have to check the technology and condition of the outer surface and see whether there is any damage or not.
The reason behind this is that the safety will ensure that the shock absorbers provide an excellent service along with an outstanding stability, controlling, and so on.
Adjustment
You will have to consider the adjustment of the shock absorber and this helps the vehicle to adjust easily with the rough and bumpy road and make it easier for the truck to carry weight.
In the industry, there are typically two types of shock adjustments available: manual and automatic.
These adjustment features allow the shock to modify the performance according to the road conditions. Out of the two types, automatically adjustable shocks are easier to install and are more efficient as they adjust easily and make sure that you do not face any problem on the road.
Price
Last but not least, you will have to take the price of the shock absorbers into consideration. The cost of shocks varies depending on quite a few factors such as brand, efficiency, performance, and many more.
In the industry, shock absorber sets are available at a wide range of price, starting from as low as $50 to rising up to $300 or more, depending on the factors.
We usually recommend the sets that are available at a decent price and come with good manufacture quality, installation, adjustment, and so on.
How to Install Shocks on Dodge Ram 3500 4×4?
Installation of shock absorbers on Dodge Ram 3500 4×4 is easy and can be done within a few steps. You can either install these shocks on your own, or you can get professional help to install it for you. The steps of installing shocks are:
Step 1: Lift The Vehicle Up
The first step is to lift the Dodge Ram 3500 4×4 up as this will give you the space to easily access the underside of the truck. If you want, then you can lift the entire truck at once, or you can lift one side at a time.
For example, if you are installing the front pair of the vehicle, you can simply lift the front of the truck and lift the rear side when you move to install the rear shock pair.
Step 2: Remove Brake Caliper And Sway Bar Nut
After lifting the truck, the next step is to remove the brake caliper and sway bar nut. This will give you the access to easily remove the existing shock absorbers and install the new ones.
Make sure that you take off all the washers, bushings, and so on before you get to work. In addition to that, you will have to remove the upper strut and lower strut bolts as well.
To remove the upper strut bolt, a 15mm socket will be required. The lower bolt has to be loosened and taken off from the control arm and you will have to use a wrench to do so.
Step 3: Take Off The Entire Assembly
Once you are done unlocking all the bolts and buts, it is now time to take off the entire assembly. To install new shock absorbers into your truck, you will have to put in spring compressors and remove the existing shocks.
Step 4: Install New Shock Absorbers
After removing the old shock absorbers, you will have to put in the new ones properly and make sure that it fits in place. Put up the entire assembly in its place after adjusting the shocks and shift the spring compressors as well to ensure that the shock absorbers function properly.
Step 5: Replace The Rear Pair
One rule of shock absorbers is that you will have to replace them in pairs. If you have to replace a front shock, then you will have to install a new front pair.
After replacing the front pair, move to the rear pair of the vehicle in case it requires replacement. You will have to repeat the same steps to install the rear shock absorbers and lift the truck down after you are done.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
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How Long Do Shock Absorbers Last In Dodge Ram 3500 4×4?
When it comes to shock absorbers, there is no fixed period of how long they will last as it typically depends on the usage of the vehicle and the comfort and experience of the driver.
The longevity of shock absorbers also depends on how you drive the truck and the type of roads you drive in. The amount of weight you carry on the truck also pays a major role in the longevity of the shocks.
However, according to experts, you should have a target of replacing the shock absorbers after every 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles of traveling.
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Is It Essential To Replace Shock Absorbers?
Yes, shock absorbers are an essential part of a vehicle and replacing them is important for the truck. Not using the shocks absorbers will cause significant damage to the vehicle and will reduce its lifespan by a great amount of time.
In addition to that, it is also very dangerous to drive a vehicle without shock absorbers. The absence of shock absorbers will affect the balance and stability of the truck and will also make it difficult for the driver to turn or control the vehicle, increasing the chances of accidents on the road.
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Is Bilstein A Good Choice For Shock Absorbers In Dodge Ram 3500 4×4?
Yes, there is no doubt that Bilstein is a good choice for shock absorbers in Dodge Ram 3500 4×4. It is one of the most trusted and reputed names in the industry and is well known in terms of product quality, durability, performance, and many more.
All the customers that have once experienced the products of the company have always gone back to their products and like their reliability and features that the company offers.
However, the only complaint that customers have with the Bilstein shock absorbers is that they are a bit expensive compared to other shocks available in the market.
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How Will I Know That I Should Install New Shocks?
When the time arrives to replace the old shocks with new ones, your truck will send you signals for you to understand the situation. The most common and noticeable signals are driving discomfort and stiff handling.
In addition to that, you will also see a difference in stability and face problems during turning and carrying weight.
When you notice these signs, make sure to replace the old shocks of your truck with new ones.
Final Words
Shock absorbers are very important for your vehicle and are absolutely necessary if you want to ensure an excellent performance and condition of your truck.
Finding the best shocks for Dodge Ram 3500 4×4 is not an easy task, especially when there are several options available in the market. The products we have mentioned above are some of the best shocks for Dodge 3500 diesel 4wd and provide an outstanding performance and longevity.
Do not forget to carefully consider the buying factors, features, and specifications to make sure that it suits your truck perfectly before purchasing the shocks.
References
- https://images.carid.com/bilstein/suspension-systems/pdf/24-186988-installation-instructions.pdf
- https://dodgeforum.com/how-tos/a/dodge-ram-1994-2001-how-to-replace-front-and-rear-shocks-394235
- https://blog.fcpeuro.com/this-is-what-makes-bilstein-shock-absorbers-so-great
