A strong choice for a 2014 Ram 1500 matches the truck’s drivetrain, suspension height and axle position, and a front-and-rear set can simplify a full refresh. Bilstein’s B8 5100 set leads for buyers whose truck has no air suspension and is not RWD; it includes four shocks and accommodates specified lift ranges. Other options here target 4WD or RWD trucks, stock-height replacements, individual axles, or front struts, so the best match depends on the actual configuration.
Check the fitment details before ordering: several listings limit compatibility by drivetrain, air suspension, or lift height. This guide compares the ten products by their stated fitment and components, and distinguishes full sets from front-only, rear-only, and strut options.
The Bilstein B8 5100 Front and Rear Set is the strongest all-around match when your 2014 Ram 1500 has no air suspension and is not RWD. It includes two front and two rear shocks, specifies 0–2.8 inches of front lift and 0–1 inch of rear lift, and uses velocity-sensitive digressive valving. Confirm the drivetrain and suspension configuration first: the listing explicitly excludes RWD models, so RWD owners should consider the Bilstein 4600 set instead.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallThe four-shock set fits 2009–2018 Ram 1500 models without air suspension, specifies front and rear lift ranges, and excludes RWD.
View on Amazon
Best 4WD SetThis front-and-rear set explicitly fits 2011–2018 4WD models without air suspension, with 0–2.8-inch front and 0–1-inch rear lift ranges.
View on Amazon
Best RWD SetThe complete front-and-rear 4600 set is specifically listed for 2011–2018 RWD Ram 1500 models and is tuned as a stock-height replacement.
View on Amazon- Best Front Pair Rough Country N3 Front Shocks
- Best Lifted Rear Pair Rough Country N3 Rear Shocks 0–3
Compare fitment, coverage, and lift range
| # | Product | Material Type | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Weight | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Bilstein B8 5100 SetBest Overall | Metal | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. TrendsAuto Bilstein 5100 SetBest 4WD Set | Rubber, Zinc | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Bilstein 4600 RWD SetBest RWD Set | — | Truck | 25 lb | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  4. TrendsAuto 4600 RWD SetStock-height RWD four-shock replacement | Metal | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  5. Rough Country N3 Front ShocksBest Front Pair | Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber, Zinc | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  6. Bilstein 5100 Rear PairRear stock-height 4WD replacement | Zinc,Steel | Truck | 3.2 lb | View on Amazon |
| 7 |  7. Rough Country N3 Rear Shocks 0–3Best Lifted Rear Pair | Rubber | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Rough Country N3 Rear Shocks 0–2.5N3 rear shocks for varied terrain | Alloy Steel, Rubber, Zinc | 2002-2008 4WD Dodge Ram 15002011-2018 | 13.7 lb | View on Amazon |
| 9 |  9. Bilstein 4600 Front ShockSingle front 4WD replacement | Metal | Truck | 15 lb | View on Amazon |
| 10 |  10. Rough Country N3 Loaded StrutsPreloaded factory-style front struts | Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber | Truck | 48.1 lb | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Shocks For 2014 Ram 1500
#1 · Best Overall
1. Bilstein B8 5100 Set
- Material Type: Metal
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Four-corner adjustable-height coverage.
Why it ranks #1: The four-shock set fits 2009–2018 Ram 1500 models without air suspension, specifies front and rear lift ranges, and excludes RWD.
A complete front-and-rear Bilstein B8 5100 set combines specified front lift adjustment with velocity-sensitive digressive valving. That pairing gives eligible Ram 1500 owners a coordinated four-shock replacement and a stated 0–2.8-inch front lift range, while the listed rear-lift allowance is 0–1 inch for trucks without air suspension.
The set includes two front and two rear shocks, so buyers can plan a four-corner replacement rather than sourcing the rear separately. Digressive valving is described as reacting quickly to changing road conditions, supporting controlled behavior on both pavement and rough terrain. Its fit boundary is important: the listing specifies 2009–2018 RAM 1500 without air suspension and excludes RWD models, with 0–1 inch of rear lift and 0–2.8 inches of front lift. Those limits should guide suspension and vehicle selection.
- Includes two front and two rear shocks
- Provides stated 0–2.8-inch front lift range
- Specifies 0–1-inch rear lift range
- Digressive valving reacts to changing road conditions
- Does not fit RWD models or trucks with air suspension.
Skip it if you have a RWD truck or air suspension; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 set is listed for Ram 1500 RWD applications.
Consider this set if your non-air-suspension Ram 1500 needs front and rear shocks with the listed front height-adjustment range. It is not a match for RWD models, and the rear lift allowance is limited to 0–1 inch.
Full product details
| Brand | Bilstein |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | (2) Front Shocks, (2) Rear Shocks |
| Manufacturer | Bilstein |
| Part Number | BILSTEIN-KIT-1020 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | BILSTEIN-KIT-1020 |
| Style | Front & Rear Shocks |
| Style Name | Front & Rear Shocks |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
#2 · Best 4WD Set
2. TrendsAuto Bilstein 5100 Set
- Material Type: Rubber, Zinc
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: 4WD height-adjustment shoppers.
Why it ranks #2: This front-and-rear set explicitly fits 2011–2018 4WD models without air suspension, with 0–2.8-inch front and 0–1-inch rear lift ranges.
Ride-height-adjustable Bilstein 5100 shocks provide a stated 0–2.8-inch front lift range in a front-and-rear set for specified Ram 1500 4WD trucks. Digressive valving responds to changing surfaces, while zinc plating and vulcanized neoprene bushings address durability in weather-exposed use and OEM-certified mounting hardware supports installation.
This TrendsAuto-listed set fits 2011–2018 Ram 1500 4WD models without air suspension and allows 0–1 inch of rear lift. The front adjustment range is stated as 0–2.8 inches, useful for buyers planning front ride height while keeping the rear limitation in view. Digressive valving is described as reacting to surface changes for stable, comfortable ride behavior. OEM-certified mounting hardware supports bolt-on installation, and weather-resistant zinc plating with vulcanized neoprene bushings is intended to stand up to harsh elements.
- Front lift range stated as 0–2.8 inches
- Includes front and rear 5100 shocks
- OEM-certified mounting hardware
- Zinc plating and vulcanized neoprene bushings
- Listed for 4WD only, not RWD Ram 1500 applications.
Skip it if you have a RWD truck; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 4600 set is listed for 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD.
This set suits 2011–2018 4WD owners without air suspension who want adjustable front height and a matched front-and-rear package. Keep the 0–1-inch rear lift limit in mind, and choose another application for RWD trucks.
Full product details
| Brand | TrendsAuto |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Manufacturer | TrendsAuto |
| Part Number | 24-317887/24-187374/DCL |
| Material | Rubber, Zinc |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
#3 · Best RWD Set
3. Bilstein 4600 RWD Set
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Weight: 25 lb
Best for: Stock-height RWD full-vehicle set.
Why it ranks #3: The complete front-and-rear 4600 set is specifically listed for 2011–2018 RWD Ram 1500 models and is tuned as a stock-height replacement.
Four Bilstein 4600 monotube shocks pair nitrogen-infused 46mm construction with digressive valving for a stock-height Ram 1500 RWD replacement. The floating dividing piston separates gas and oil for stated fade-free performance, while quick response to changing surfaces supports stable, controlled ride behavior across varied driving conditions.
The set includes front and rear 4600 shocks and is listed for 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD, making it a coordinated replacement for owners addressing all corners. Stock-height tuning means it is not presented as a ride-height adjustment kit. The 46mm monotube design uses a floating dividing piston to separate gas and oil, supporting the stated consistent, fade-free operation. Digressive valving reacts to changing surface conditions, which the listing connects to stable, controlled, and comfortable ride quality.
- Front and rear shocks included
- Listed for 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD
- Stock-height replacement tuning
- 46mm monotube with floating dividing piston
- Listed for RWD applications, not 4WD Ram 1500 models.
Skip it if you drive a 4WD truck; the Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Rear Pair is listed for 2009–2016 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD, though it covers only the rear.
A fit for RWD owners seeking stock-height Bilstein 4600 replacements at both ends, with monotube construction and surface-responsive valving. The application is specifically listed as RWD, so 4WD owners should select a product specified for their drivetrain.
Full product details
| Brand | Bilstein |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Item Weight | 25 pounds |
| Manufacturer | BilsteinShocks |
| Part Number | 24-187480 x2 24-187510 x2 |
| Model Number | 24-187480, 24-187510 |
Listed on Amazon as: Bilstein 24-187480 24-187510 Set of 4600 Series Front & Rear Monotube Shocks fits 2011 2018 Ram 1500 RWD – Improves Ride Quality, Handling & Comfort
View on Amazon#4
4. TrendsAuto 4600 RWD Set
- Material Type: Metal
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Stock-height RWD four-shock replacement.
Why it ranks #4: This front-and-rear set targets 2011–2018 RWD trucks without air suspension and offers stock-height 4600-series replacement shocks.
A vehicle-tuned, nitrogen-infused 46mm monotube setup defines this TrendsAuto 4600 front-and-rear set for stock-height Ram 1500 RWD applications. Its floating dividing piston separates gas and oil for stated fade-free performance, while the application-specific tuning is intended to account for uses such as towing and long-haul driving.
The set is listed for 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD without air suspension and includes front and rear monotube shocks. Stock-height tuning makes it a replacement choice rather than a listed lift-height adjustment option. Nitrogen infusion and a 46mm monotube design, together with a floating dividing piston separating gas and oil, are specified to deliver consistent, fade-free performance. The vehicle-specific tuning is described as considering use factors including towing, tire pressure, and more, which helps buyers match a replacement to ordinary work and travel demands.
- Front and rear shocks included
- Specified for 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD
- Stock-height replacement tuning
- Nitrogen-infused 46mm monotube with floating dividing piston
- Stock-height replacement; no lift-height adjustment is specified.
Skip it if you need front lift adjustment; the TrendsAuto Bilstein 5100 set specifies up to 2.8 inches of front lift for listed 4WD trucks.
Choose this set for a stock-height 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD without air suspension that needs front and rear replacements for daily driving, towing, or long trips. It is not the listed option for lift adjustment or 4WD.
Full product details
| Brand | TrendsAuto |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | Comes with housing |
| Manufacturer | TrendsAuto |
| Part Number | 24-187480 / 24-187510 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | B6 4600 |
| Style | Modern |
| Style Name | Modern |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: TrendsAuto 4600 Series Set of Front & Rear Monotube Shocks fits 2011-2018 Ram 1500 RWD Without Air Suspension | Includes TrendsAuto Decal | 24-187480 24-187510
View on Amazon#5 · Best Front Pair
5. Rough Country N3 Front Shocks
- Material Type: Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber, Zinc
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Front lift and mixed-road driving.
Why it ranks #5: The front pair fits 2010–2018 Ram 1500 and Classic models with 0–2 inches of lift, with nitrogen charging and 10-stage variable valving.
Ten-stage variable valving gives these Rough Country N3 front shocks a way to balance highway smoothness with control over rough terrain and jobsite surfaces. Their stated 0–2-inch lift range suits Ram 1500 owners seeking front damping for a mildly lifted setup, while nitrogen charging and a 54mm body support consistent performance under demanding use.
The pair is specified for 2010–2018 Ram 1500 and Classic models with 0–2 inches of lift, making the lift range a key boundary when selecting front replacements. Ten-stage variable valving adjusts damping for paved roads and rougher terrain, supporting a more controlled ride across changing surfaces. High-pressure nitrogen charging and the 54mm shock body are identified as helping cooling and fade resistance, which matters during towing, hauling, and off-road driving. The supplied components are two front shocks, not a complete four-corner set.
- Ten-stage variable valving for highway and rough-terrain damping
- Specified for Ram 1500 2010–2018 and Classic
- Fits stated 0–2-inch lift range
- Nitrogen charged with a 54mm shock body
- Front pair only; rear shocks are not included.
Skip it if you need a complete front-and-rear set; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 set covers both ends for specified RWD stock-height trucks.
A fit for Ram 1500 owners who need front shocks for a 0–2-inch lifted truck and split time between pavement, jobsites, and rough terrain. Check the lift range and front-only scope against your suspension plans before choosing this pair.
Full product details
| Brand | Rough Country |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | (2) Premium N3 Shocks |
| Manufacturer | Rough Country |
| Part Number | 23227_A |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 Years |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber, Zinc |
| Model Number | 23227_A |
| Style | N3 Front Shocks |
| Style Name | N3 Front Shocks |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Rough Country N3 Front Shocks for Ram 1500 (2010-2018 & Classic) – Fits 0-2" Lifted Suspension, Nitrogen Charged Shock Absorbers, Pair
View on Amazon#6
6. Bilstein 5100 Rear Pair
- Material Type: Zinc,Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Weight: 3.2 lb
Best for: Rear stock-height 4WD replacement.
Why it ranks #6: These monotube rear shocks are listed for 2009–2016 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD and provide velocity-sensitive digressive valving.
A monotube design gives this Bilstein 5100 rear pair its stated fade-free performance, while velocity-sensitive digressive pistons respond to changing road conditions. The listing identifies a direct-fit upgrade for stock-height light trucks and SUVs, specifically naming 2009–2016 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD, making it a focused rear-replacement option.
This is a rear pair rather than a full front-and-rear kit, so it fits buyers addressing the rear axle while retaining or separately sourcing front shocks. The listing names 2009–2016 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD, and the additional description identifies stock-height direct-fit use. A monotube layout is associated with consistent fade-free performance, while the velocity-sensitive digressive piston reacts to changing surfaces. Those features support the stated goals of improved ride quality, handling, and comfort without implying a lift-height adjustment.
- Pair of rear shocks
- Monotube design for stated fade-free performance
- Velocity-sensitive digressive piston
- Listed as direct-fit for stock-height applications
- Rear pair only; it does not provide front shocks.
Skip it if you want all four corners in one package; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 set includes front and rear shocks for listed RWD trucks.
A sensible match for a stock-height 2009–2016 Ram 1500 4WD owner replacing rear shocks and seeking monotube damping. It covers only the rear, so account for front components separately when planning a complete suspension refresh.
Full product details
| Brand | Bilstein |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Item Weight | 3.2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Bilstein |
| Part Number | 24-187374(2) |
| Material | Zinc,Steel |
| Model Number | 24-187374(2) |
| Style | Monotube |
| Style Name | Monotube |
Listed on Amazon as: Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Rear Pair for 09-16 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD
View on Amazon#7 · Best Lifted Rear Pair
7. Rough Country N3 Rear Shocks 0–3
- Material Type: Rubber
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Broad-range lifted 4WD rear pair.
Why it ranks #7: The rear pair is listed for 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD and covers a stated 0–3-inch lift range with nitrogen charging.
A stated 0–3-inch range distinguishes these Rough Country N3 rear shocks for 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD. Ten-stage variable valving is paired with nitrogen charging and a 54mm shock body, supporting the listed mix of off-road capability, highway ride quality, and fast cooling in a rear-pair application.
Two premium N3 shock absorbers are included, making this a rear-pair choice rather than a full-vehicle kit. The product title specifies 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD and a 0–3-inch range, giving lift height and drivetrain clear roles in selection. Ten-stage variable valving is described as balancing off-road action with highway ride quality. Nitrogen charging and a fast-cooling 54mm body support operation, while rubber bushings and a spring-loaded piston rod seal are listed construction details.
- Two N3 shock absorbers included
- Stated 0–3-inch range
- Listed for 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD
- 10-stage valving and nitrogen charging
- Rear pair only; front shocks are not included.
Skip it if you have a RWD truck; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 4600 set is listed for 2011–2018 Ram 1500 RWD.
This pair fits the stated use case of a 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD owner seeking rear shocks across a 0–3-inch range. It does not supply front shocks, so plan separately for a complete suspension replacement.
Full product details
| Brand | Rough Country |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | (2) Premium N3 Shock Absorbers |
| Manufacturer | Rough Country |
| Part Number | 23141_K |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 year |
| Material | Rubber |
| Model Number | 23141_K |
| Style | truck, offroad, jeep, suspension |
| Style Name | truck, offroad, jeep, suspension |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information "RC recommends a certified technician install lift systems. Knowledge of RC instructions, suspension procedures and post install checks are required. If a system is installed w/o knowledge and expertise it may impact the integrity/operating safety." |
Listed on Amazon as: Rough Country 0-3" N3 Rear Shock Absorbers for 09-18 Ram 1500 4WD – 23141_K
View on Amazon#8
8. Rough Country N3 Rear Shocks 0–2.5
- Material Type: Alloy Steel, Rubber, Zinc
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: 2002-2008 4WD Dodge Ram 15002011-2018
- Weight: 13.7 lb
Best for: N3 rear shocks for varied terrain.
Why it ranks #8: This nitrogen-charged rear pair lists a 0–2.5-inch range and includes 10-stage variable valving, but its compatibility details are less clear.
Ten-stage variable valving gives these Rough Country N3 rear shocks a stated balance between off-road use and smooth highway driving. Nitrogen charging and a fast-cooling 54mm shock body support consistent operation, while the listed 0–2.5-inch range targets Ram 1500 owners whose rear suspension falls within that lift specification.
The package contains two premium N3 shock absorbers, so it addresses the rear pair rather than all four corners. Its title lists a 0–2.5-inch range and Ram 1500 applications, while the supplied compatibility details specify 2011–2018 models; buyers should use that stated application scope when selecting. Ten-stage valving provides the described damping blend, and nitrogen charging with the 54mm body supports cooling. Rubber bushings and spring-loaded piston rod seals are also listed as construction features.
- Two rear N3 shocks included
- 10-stage variable valving
- Nitrogen charged with a fast-cooling 54mm body
- Rubber bushings and spring-loaded piston rod seals
- Rear pair only; front shocks are not included.
Skip it if you need front and rear replacements together; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 set includes both ends for listed RWD Ram 1500 models.
Consider this pair for a Ram 1500 owner seeking rear N3 damping within the stated 0–2.5-inch range for mixed highway and off-road driving. It covers only the rear, and the listing’s specific compatibility details name 2011–2018 models.
Full product details
| Brand | Rough Country |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | 2002-2008 4WD Dodge Ram 15002011-2018 |
| Included Components | (2) Premium N3 Shock Absorbers |
| Item Weight | 13.7 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Rough Country |
| Part Number | 23141_N |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 Year Manufacturer |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Rubber, Zinc |
| Model Number | 23141_N |
| Style | trucks,offroad,jeeps,wrangler,suspension |
| Style Name | trucks,offroad,jeeps,wrangler,suspension |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information "RC recommends a certified technician install lift systems. Knowledge of RC instructions, suspension procedures and post install checks are required. If a system is installed w/o knowledge and expertise it may impact the integrity/operating safety." |
Listed on Amazon as: Rough Country 0-2.5" N3 Rear Shock Absorbers for 2002-2018 Ram 1500-23141_N
View on Amazon#9
9. Bilstein 4600 Front Shock
- Material Type: Metal
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Weight: 15 lb
Best for: Single front 4WD replacement.
Why it ranks #9: The listing identifies a front B6 4600 shock for 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD, but supplies no lift range or complete-set components.
The listed B6 4600 application is a front shock for Ram 1500 4WD models from 2009 through 2018. That clear location and drivetrain scope can help owners seeking a single front replacement identify its intended role, but the supplied product details provide no lift range, dimensions, or further performance features.
This Bilstein listing identifies model 24-317894 as a front B6 4600 shock for Ram 1500 4WD, model years 2009–2018. The included component is one shock absorber, so buyers planning a pair or complete suspension refresh need to account for additional units separately. The supplied facts do not state collapsed or extended length, lift range, or specific damping construction, leaving those details unavailable for planning ride-height changes. Its strongest supported use is therefore a front replacement within the named vehicle application.
- Identified as a front B6 4600 shock
- Listed for Ram 1500 4WD
- Application spans 2009–2018 models
- Single shock absorber is specified as included
- No lift range or shock dimensions are provided in the listing.
Skip it if you need dimensions or a stated lift range before selecting a shock; the Bilstein 5100 set lists front lift adjustment and a rear lift limit.
This listing may suit a 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4WD owner seeking a front B6 4600 replacement. It specifies one shock but omits dimensions and lift range, so it is a limited-information choice for suspension planning.
Full product details
| Brand | Bilstein |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | Shock Absorber |
| Item Weight | 15 pounds |
| Manufacturer | BILSTEIN |
| Part Number | 24-317894 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | LT |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | 24-317894 |
| Style | Music |
| Style Name | Music |
Listed on Amazon as: RAM 1500 4WD; '09- '18; F; B6 4600
View on Amazon#10
10. Rough Country N3 Loaded Struts
- Material Type: Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Weight: 48.1 lb
Best for: Preloaded factory-style front struts.
Why it ranks #10: These are preloaded front struts for 2012–2018 Ram 1500, not a conventional shock set, making them a less direct match for a shocks search.
Preloaded coils eliminate strut disassembly for installation of these Rough Country stock-replacement N3 struts. The pair is listed for 2012–2018 Ram 1500 and aims to retain a smooth, factory-like ride, while nitrogen charging and a 13⁄8-inch bore support the stated goals of improved handling and tire contact.
Because the coils are pre-loaded, the listing says no strut disassembly is required, a practical distinction for buyers replacing front struts. Two loaded struts are included, and the product is described as a stock replacement for 2012–2018 Ram 1500. Nitrogen gas charging is specified to improve ride and handling and reduce oil aeration; the listing also connects improved tire contact with increased stability. A hardened chromed piston rod is identified as improving corrosion resistance and sealing properties.
- Pre-loaded coil included
- No strut disassembly required
- Nitrogen charged to reduce shock oil aeration
- Hardened chromed piston rod resists corrosion
- The supplied pair is front struts, not a complete four-corner shock set.
Skip it if you need rear shocks in the same package; the Bilstein 24-187480 and 24-187510 4600 set includes front and rear units for listed RWD trucks.
This pair suits a 2012–2018 Ram 1500 owner replacing front struts who values pre-loaded coils and a factory-like ride. It does not cover the rear, and installation guidance recommends certified technicians for lift-system work.
Full product details
| Brand | Rough Country |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | (2) N3 Loaded Struts |
| Item Weight | 48.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Rough Country |
| Part Number | 501097 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 Year Manufacturer |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber |
| Model Number | 501097 |
| Style | trucks,offroad,jeeps,wrangler,suspension |
| Style Name | trucks,offroad,jeeps,wrangler,suspension |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information "RC recommends a certified technician install lift systems. Knowledge of RC instructions, suspension procedures and post install checks are required. If a system is installed w/o knowledge and expertise it may impact the integrity/operating safety." |
Listed on Amazon as: Rough Country Stock Replacement N3 Struts for 2012-2018 Ram 1500-501097
View on AmazonAvoiding fitment mismatches on a Ram 1500
The most consequential fitment trap is assuming that a listing covering the model year also covers every drivetrain and suspension configuration. The Bilstein B8 5100 set excludes RWD and air-suspension models, while the TrendsAuto Bilstein 5100 set specifically states 4WD and no air suspension. The 4600 full sets, by contrast, are listed for RWD.
Individual-axle listings also differ: Bilstein’s rear 5100 pair is for 4WD, and the single Bilstein 4600 front shock is likewise identified for 4WD. Check the truck’s drivetrain, air-suspension equipment, axle position, and existing ride height against the exact listing before buying.
If a listing’s fitment is ambiguous, verify the manufacturer part number against your vehicle details rather than inferring compatibility from a broad model-year range.
What lift-range labels do—and do not—tell you
A stated lift range helps narrow shock choices, but it does not establish that a product will fit every truck within that range. The B8 5100 set specifies 0–2.8 inches of front lift and 0–1 inch at the rear; Rough Country’s N3 front pair covers 0–2 inches, while its two N3 rear options list 0–2.5 and 0–3 inches. Those ranges are not interchangeable: they refer to particular products and, in some cases, different axles or drivetrain applications.
A stock-height buyer may find the 4600 sets more directly relevant because they are described as stock-height replacements. Before selecting a lifted option, compare the truck’s actual front and rear lift separately with the product’s stated range.
The supplied listings do not specify a single universal lift measurement method or compatibility across all suspension modifications.
How to Choose Ram 1500 Shocks
Drivetrain and air suspension
Start by matching drivetrain and air-suspension status to the listing, because the options do not share universal fitment. The Bilstein B8 5100 set excludes RWD and air suspension, while the TrendsAuto 5100 set specifies 4WD without air suspension. The two 4600 full sets are listed for RWD; the Bilstein rear 5100 pair and Bilstein front 4600 shock specify 4WD.
A 4WD owner seeking lift adjustability should compare the two 5100 sets, while a RWD owner seeking a full stock-height replacement should focus on a 4600 set. Verify air-suspension details independently before ordering, since not every listing states whether it is compatible.
Lift range and ride height
Choose a shock whose stated lift range matches the truck’s front and rear height, rather than relying on one number for both axles. The Bilstein B8 5100 set specifies 0–2.8 inches in front and 0–1 inch at the rear; the TrendsAuto 5100 set gives the same ranges. Rough Country’s N3 front pair lists 0–2 inches, and its rear pairs list 0–2.5 or 0–3 inches.
Stock-height buyers may prefer the 4600 sets, described as stock-height replacements. The 5100 sets suit buyers needing the stated front adjustment, while the N3 rear options distinguish different listed rear lift ranges.
Confirm the vehicle’s actual setup and product fitment before treating these ranges as interchangeable.
Axle coverage and replacement type
Decide whether you need a complete front-and-rear set, one axle’s pair, or struts before comparing features. The B8 5100 and 4600 listings from Bilstein and TrendsAuto include front and rear shocks; Rough Country’s N3 front and rear listings each cover only one axle. Bilstein’s 5100 rear pair is rear-only, and its 4600 front listing identifies one front shock.
Rough Country’s loaded N3 struts include preloaded coils and are a different replacement type from the shock pairs. A full suspension refresh favours a matched front-and-rear set, while a targeted repair may call for the axle-specific pair.
If the job requires struts, compare the loaded-strut listing rather than assuming a shock-only product includes a coil assembly.
Which shocks should I choose for my Ram 1500?
For a non-RWD truck without air suspension that needs front and rear shocks, choose the Bilstein B8 5100 Set; it includes four shocks and specifies separate front and rear lift ranges. For a 4WD truck with the same no-air-suspension condition, the TrendsAuto Bilstein 5100 Set offers explicitly stated 4WD fitment. RWD owners seeking a complete stock-height replacement should compare the Bilstein 4600 RWD Set and TrendsAuto 4600 RWD Set.
If you only need front shocks, the Rough Country N3 Front Shocks cover a stated 0–2-inch lift range; for a rear pair, select between the Rough Country N3 Rear Shocks 0–2.5 and 0–3 according to listed lift. Confirm exact fitment and axle needs before ordering.
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- Best Shocks For 2007 Dodge Ram 1500
- Best Headlights For Ram 1500
- Best Suspension For Ram 1500
- Best Rotors For Ram 1500
- Best Truck Battery For Ram 1500
- Best Tuner For Ram 1500
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I confirm whether my Ram 1500 has air suspension?
Check the truck’s equipment information or owner documentation, and inspect the suspension or ask a Ram service department to verify it. Do not assume based on trim alone. Several listed products specify that they fit trucks without air suspension, so confirm this detail against the product listing before ordering.
Do I need an alignment after replacing shocks or struts?
An alignment may be appropriate if the replacement involves struts or changes ride height, or if the steering wheel is off-center or the truck pulls afterward. Replacing shocks alone does not automatically establish that an alignment is needed. Check the installation guidance and have alignment checked if fitment or handling changes.
When should shocks be replaced in pairs?
Replace shocks in pairs on the same axle to keep damping balanced from side to side. If both front or both rear shocks are worn, replace that pair rather than only one. For a complete front-and-rear replacement, choose a listing that explicitly includes both pairs and verify it matches the truck.
What should I verify before ordering a shock set?
Confirm drivetrain, air-suspension status, axle coverage, and the listed lift range before ordering. The listed Bilstein B8 5100 set excludes RWD models, while the TrendsAuto 5100 listing specifies 4WD fitment. Also check whether you need front shocks, rear shocks, or a complete set.
Which option should I consider for a RWD Ram 1500?
For a RWD truck seeking a complete stock-height replacement, compare the Bilstein 4600 RWD set with the TrendsAuto 4600 RWD set. The editorial guidance identifies these as options for RWD owners. Confirm the exact fitment and whether the listing includes the front and rear shocks you need.
Final Words
Start by confirming whether the truck has air suspension and whether it is RWD or 4WD, then match the listing to the axle coverage and lift range you need. For a non-RWD truck without air suspension needing all four shocks, the Bilstein B8 5100 set is the all-around choice; RWD owners should compare the 4600 sets. Verify fitment before ordering.
