Those were re-branded Bilstein 5100's. The valving might have been slightly different.
Shock Comparison: Rancho RS5000X vs Skyjacker Black Max vs KYB Monotube
- Thread starter TJim
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I had Bilstein 5100's before I had the Rancho 5000X on my rig. The Rancho's were definitely softer from day 1. However, I noted that once you got to 45mph, there was no noticeable difference between the Bilstein 5100's and the Rancho 5000X. This was back in 2018 when I first noted this on the forum in a number of threads. Compared to the stock shocks on another TJ I own, the Rancho's are noticeably better. Compared to the KYB monotubes I have on another TJ, the Rancho's are noticeably better ride. I'm getting rid of the Rancho's on my rig and trying the Fox Savvy Valved shocks.
It's actually very difficult to set up a true scientific experiment (meaning bulletproof, only one factor different with a control), because, while the shocks may be the only thing you change, the shocks you change from usually do not have the exact same amount of compression and extension and overall length, so you are not only comparing valving, but also other factors which affect ride quality that are tied in to up and downtravel. Since there is no control group, it's mainly a subjective discussion. That doesn't make it meaningless, just no hard data.
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I don't know if impressed is quite the right word....
You're saving me all kinds of monies Mike. I'll wait for you guys to get the skinny on the Black Max shocks, then make my decision. I have a set of JKS shocks collecting dust, so I can say I at least contributed to this so called science experiment, lol!
Me too, if only to learn by practicing on @hosejockey61's rig before doing my own! Lol
Sorry if this has already been said. No time to read all 13 pages.
I ordered all new 3 in lift Soft Springs for my 84 Toyota truck. I used Rancho Shocks. The ride was terrible. As it turns out, the shocks were overkill and ruined the ride.
I would go with the kyb.
My son's 73 Blazer had Rancho shocks. I switched them to Monroe Gasmatics. Way better ride.
Disclaimer: I don't know if the correct Rancho shocks were ever ordered...
I ordered all new 3 in lift Soft Springs for my 84 Toyota truck. I used Rancho Shocks. The ride was terrible. As it turns out, the shocks were overkill and ruined the ride.
I would go with the kyb.
My son's 73 Blazer had Rancho shocks. I switched them to Monroe Gasmatics. Way better ride.
Disclaimer: I don't know if the correct Rancho shocks were ever ordered...
My point is be very careful about the shock selection. It can ruin your ride if you don't get the right one. That is regardless of brand.
Which particular Ranchos? In this thread, we're mostly interested in comparing the RS5000X series.
It’s all just a bunch of group think and so-called science experiments. 
Agree. Call the manufacturer of whatever shock you want to go with and discuss your application with them. Putting an overkill shock on your Jeep will ruin the ride. I don't have a recent set of new shocks for comparison (still factory on the LJ and it rides great) My lift kit shows up in August. Will let you know how it rides then.It’s all just a bunch of group think and so-called science experiments.
Don't forget the main variable, the ass-O-owner meter, and everybody's ass feels differently.It’s all just a bunch of group think and so-called science experiments.
.... So when a person actually runs the different shocks he's giving an opinion about still counts as group think?It’s all just a bunch of group think and so-called science experiments.
The guys that haven't run anything else and defending their single experience as best is what I would consider group think ....
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