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Shock Absorber question

Discussion in 'Towing & Hauling' started by RostamD, Nov 4, 2020.

  1. Nov 4, 2020 at 4:36 PM
    #1
    RostamD

    RostamD [OP] New Member

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    Howdy,

    I plan to buy a Tundra to replace my existing tow vehicle in the next year or two (Hopefully the next generation Tundra is out by then). I'd like to understand the pros/cons of the standard shock absorbers, Bilsteins that come with TRD Sport package, and Bilsteins that come with TRD Off Road package.

    Searching the forum, someone mentioned that TRD Off Road Bilsteins are tuned for off roading (I suspect that would not be as good for towing), and TRD Sport Bilsteins are tuned for handling (I suspect this is better for towing). Does this seem about right?

    Also, not sure whats the standard (Neither TRD package) shock absorbers like.

    Appreciate if someone could list the pros/cons of each shock absorber, not just for towing, but in general.

    Thank you!
     
  2. Nov 4, 2020 at 4:44 PM
    #2
    Jim LE 1301

    Jim LE 1301 Camaro Lover, SSEM # 11,TTC#179

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    Hudson Valley, New York
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    Welcome from NY.

    The TRD Sport also has front and rear sway bars for better handling.

    Just remember they stopped putting in transmission coolers starting in 2019.

    There are rumors about dropping the 8 cylinder 5.7 Liter motor in the new generation.

    You could always add the transmission cooler in the 2019 - 2021. Here's a link....
    https://www.tundras.com/threads/2019-transmission-cooler-kit.60550/#post-1587158

    Good luck with your decision
     
  3. Nov 4, 2020 at 4:54 PM
    #3
    Jim LE 1301

    Jim LE 1301 Camaro Lover, SSEM # 11,TTC#179

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    99% sure it's going bye bye.
     
  4. Nov 4, 2020 at 5:45 PM
    #4
    Kanobi13

    Kanobi13 New Member

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    You sure? Let the cat out of the bag you have insider info?
     
  5. Nov 4, 2020 at 5:54 PM
    #5
    Jim LE 1301

    Jim LE 1301 Camaro Lover, SSEM # 11,TTC#179

    Joined:
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    2018 MGM Tundra TRD Sport Double Cab
    Insider information......Use the search bar and read all about it.;)
     
    TXMiamiFan likes this.
  6. Nov 4, 2020 at 6:06 PM
    #6
    Kanobi13

    Kanobi13 New Member

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    So your 99% sure??
     
  7. Nov 5, 2020 at 9:23 AM
    #7
    frichco228

    frichco228 Valued Member

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    Frank
    Virginia
    Vehicle:
    2016 Crewmax 4WD, TRD Offroad
    Eibach Pro Truck Stage 2 suspension, HD RAS, 285/75-18 Nokian Outpost AT, LoPro bed cover, TRD rear sway bar, DD 10 inch exhaust, and various other goodies
    The standard black shocks are pretty weak, made for comfort not handling in any respect. Sport shocks are tuned for the road and the sport models have front and rear sway bars and 20 inch rims- handle better. The off road package has shocks tuned for off road- mainly they handle bumps and fluctuations better. They also have 18 inch rims, and thus in my opinion, ride better overall due to the extra cushion from the tires.

    I tow with my off road suspension and it works well. I will be adding a rear sway bar to tighten up cornering.

    I think you would be very happy with either a sport or off road package. If you get the off road consider the rear sway bar, easy install and they only cost about $$. And know, whatever you end up purchasing....there are some excellent shocks, suspensions, upgrades to make the truck drive and handle as you would like, regardless of trim and packages.
     

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