Bilstein 4600 vs 5100 – Difference Between Two Shocks

Bilstein 4600 and Bilstein Heavy Duty 5100 are competitors of different brands. They have the same technology, but they also have multiple differences right from purpose to build.

If you are confused between them and are unable to understand what purposes they serve, you have come to the right place. This article will ease your confusion by laying out their similarities and differences clearly for you. Let’s start!

Bilstein 4600 vs 5100

Bilstein 4600 vs 5100 – What’s the same?

They have the same stock height and valving. In other words, their internal technology and build are pretty much the same. Another major similarity is that pressure is also the same. They both have 360 psi nitrogen making them quite resistant to shocks. On the outer side, too, you will see that they both look quite similar.

Bilstein 4600 vs 5100 – What’s different?

One of the most obvious differences between the two is the look. The heavy-duty shocks have a yellow body. The dust boot is blue. The 5100 series, on the other hand, has a metal body. The dust boot, in this case, is black.

The biggest difference, though, is the purpose. If you are using the shock for stock height trucks, you will need to go with the 4600 shocks. If you have lifted trucks, you will prefer the 5100 series.
More about their purpose

More often than not, we have noticed individuals purchasing the 5100 series for stock height trucks as well. However, this is not the norm. The 4600 shocks have been designed specifically to help you with stock height trucks. So, it doesn’t make sense to buy its counterpart. Also, Bilstein 4600 shocks are more affordable and perform extremely well for offboarding, towing, and regular driving.

While there’s a choice to make (albeit an uneven one) with stock height trucks, if you have a lifted truck, you have no choice. You must go with the 5100 shocks. You cannot expect the same results if you try using 4600 in this case.

Do you have a leveled truck? You may have to do some homework then. Depending on the leveling kit you purchased and the truck’s torsion, you must choose shocks. This is important because Bilstein has shocks made for various reasons. For example, if you have a 1-3-inch leveling kit, you will have shocks to compliment it. Again, if you pick the wrong one, you may regret it in the future.

Bottom line

To put it all together, even though the same alike, we would say they are quite different, and every truck owner should understand this. You should pick shocks depending on your requirements. Don’t just base your decision on which one is cheaper!

Both the shocks also come with the same kind of warranty – lifetime against all manufacturer’s defects. So, it is mainly the requirement that should call the shots.

We hope all your doubts are cleared and you are all set to buy the right shocks for your truck. All the best!

If you have any doubts or questions, do not hesitate to ask us through Comments.