The Bilstein 24-274395 is a rear shock from the B8 5100 Series, a monotube gas design aimed at lifted and leveled Ram 2500 trucks. The manufacturer describes the line as using a high-pressure monotube body with a velocity-sensitive digressive piston that adjusts to road and load changes. Owners on user forums say the 5100 feels firmer than factory on a 2500 but stays controlled and not harsh, which makes it a practical step up from worn stock units if you tow or haul. Buyers searching for a Ram 2500 rear monotube shock, Bilstein B8 5100 rear upgrade, or fade-resistant towing rear shock will find this unit fits that need.
Installation is a manageable driveway job for a mechanic who is comfortable working under a truck. Owners on user forums recommend supporting the rear axle before removing a shock, since the axle can drop once the unit is out. Access to the upper nut is tight, so many owners remove the wheel-well liner first and use a long extension with a thin wrench on the inside nut. Owners also report that the rubber bushings in the included hardware pack can be too small for the frame holes, so check fit before assembly. Fitment details vary across listings, so confirm the application with the manufacturer before ordering.
Owners on user forums report that monotube shocks like the 5100 are generally not compressed when installed unless they are held with a band, and many did the swap without a compressor by supporting the frame and wheels off the ground.
Owners on user forums who installed 5100 shocks on 2014-and-later Ram 2500 trucks report that the included rubber bushings were too small for the frame holes, and that the conical bushing faces up during assembly.
Plan on several hours per side if you are working without a lift, based on owner reports. You will need a jack and stands, a 13/16-inch wrench or socket for the inside nut, a 7/8-inch socket with extension, and a thin wrench to hold the shock shaft while you break the nut loose. Owners on user forums say an impact tool can speed up removal, but avoid overtightening the lock nut during reinstallation. Support the rear end before removing the old shock, and check the mounting hardware and bushings before you start.
