Bilstien 5160 rod pitting / corrosion.

My tundra is long overdue for new shocks, and I’ve decided on 6112’s up front.

I’m thinking 5160’s for the rear, but with the exposed rod I’m really concerned about pitting and corrosion on the shaft, especially with plenty of winter salt and grime. Any sort of boot down at axle height would also have a very limited life IMHO.

So, who lives in the salt belt and has 5160’s with good results? Or should I go with my gut and put 5100’s back there? Original price isn’t my hesitation, but I don’t want to pay more to get a short life.

 

Damn. Radio silence.

Bueler? Marco?

 

i have 5160. They are completely covered in surface rust on the bodies and no noticeable pitting/scoring on the exposed shafts. (that part is moving and gets wiped by the seals). Anything that isn't wiped by the seals do corrode.

Also you can mount a rubber shock boot to just about any shock if that's your concern. The 5100 just has the boot from what i can tell.

Also the 6112 are also completely surface rusted as well.

If you install coat the bodies (not shaft part) in clearcoat. where the sticker lives looks brand new. I'll post a picture if you want but i don't have the truck or any available currently.

 

https://www.kartek.com/parts/mavcoa...osion-protection-13-oz-aerosol-spray-can.html

This stuff will protect your shocks... And anything else you spray it on.

 

I’m not too concerned about surface corrosion on the bodies over time, just pitting from rock chips and corrosion on the rods that will destroy the seals. Good to hear of at least one pair holding up well.

I don’t think shock boots on “inverted” shocks like 5160’s will last long driving in deep snow or light brush, too vulnerable hanging down there. That’s partly why I’m thinking rear 5100’s, the boot up top above the “shit line” ought to last longer, plus the shock body takes the brunt of rock chips and salt spray, while the rod is more shielded.

But if enough real world experience proves my worries to be pointless, then I’ll probably stick to the plan of rear 5160’s.

 

I would go 5100s. The 5160 is legit just a 5100 with an reservoir. If you’re not going over whoops for an hour straight, you’re good without it!