The Bilstein B6 4600 rear shock (part 24-274944) is a replacement damper for the rear axle of Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks. The manufacturer positions the B6 4600 line as a direct-fit upgrade for stock height light trucks and SUV's. Its monotube design is meant to keep damping consistent without fade, and its velocity sensitive, digressive piston adjusts to changing pavement. For a 2017 F-250 or F-350 owner looking for a stock-height rear shock upgrade, that matters. One owner on a user forum reported that the factory rear shocks were already leaking at about 5k miles, and another wrote that Bilstein 4600 or 5100s made a world of difference in their truck.
Against a budget damper, the case for this unit is steadier control over a long service life. The manufacturer backs the B6 4600 with a limited lifetime warranty. Set expectations on towing, though. Owners on user forums point out that shocks don't support the load; they dampen the movement of the axle, so heavy towing still depends on the springs, sway bars, or load-leveling hardware. Before ordering, confirm your model year, 4WD configuration, and rear suspension against your VIN, since published year coverage for this part number varies. The manufacturer's install guidance for the 4600 and 5100 series says the shocks are installed in the same manner as a standard replacement shock.
No. The manufacturer lists the B6 4600 series as non-adjustable, so there is no damping dial to change.
The manufacturer designs the B6 4600 line for stock-height light trucks, so check with the manufacturer about your specific ride height before ordering a leveled or lifted setup.
Owners on user forums note that shocks control motion rather than carry weight, so the shock works alongside the springs and any load-leveling hardware rather than replacing them.
This is a manageable driveway job for a rear shock swap, though it is not a quick bolt-in. The manufacturer's procedure calls for removing the old shock, sliding the boot adapter over the stem, and installing the lower washer, sleeve, and bushing before seating the shock in its original location, followed by the upper bushing, washer, and nut. If a chassis hoist has been used, the vehicle should be lowered so its full weight is on the suspension before the fasteners are fully tightened. Owners on user forums report that a pry bar helps with aligning the shock bolts, and that ratchet straps around the ends of the shock can compress a rear shock for installation without jacking up the truck. Owners on forums working on other 4600 installs also recommend holding the shaft stationary with an Allen key while torquing the top nut. Plan for penetrating oil on seized mounts, and use a torque wrench and jack stands.
