The Bilstein B6 4600 24-029032 is a rear monotube shock absorber with a 46mm body, built for the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Base in RWD form. It is a gas-charged, non-adjustable unit meant as a direct-fit replacement for factory shocks on stock-height light trucks, so it installs on the original mounts without modification. The B6 4600 line is tuned to each application rather than sold as a one-size valve package.
Compared with a worn factory damper, a new gas monotube shock helps restore control of the rear axle, cutting down on the bounce and float that tired units cause over broken pavement or under a loaded bed. Compared with a bargain shock, a Bilstein B6 is the choice for drivers who want a consistent, stock-style ride from a known OE-replacement brand. Replacing both rear units at the same time keeps the two sides damping evenly. Search terms to match: 1999 Silverado 1500 RWD rear shock, Bilstein B6 4600 46mm monotube, stock height truck rear shock upgrade. Before ordering, confirm your lift height and rear suspension setup, and check the RPO codes on the glove-box sticker, as owners on user forums recommend.
Published application data covers the 1999 Silverado 1500 RWD rear position, but lift-height and suspension details vary between sources, and some electronic-suspension and steering setups may not be covered. Confirm your truck's VIN and RPO codes against the manufacturer's application information before ordering.
Owners on user forums advise noting how the original boot sits and installing the new shock the same way, with the plastic boot facing up.
Owners on user forums report swapping the rear shocks without pulling the rear wheels. They also recommend safely supporting the rear with jack stands and chocking the front tires before working underneath.
Rear shock replacement on this generation is one of the more approachable suspension jobs for a home mechanic. Expect to need 21mm sockets and wrenches, a breaker bar for seized nuts, jack stands, wheel chocks, and penetrating lubricant. Spray the bolts and shock ends ahead of time, support the rear axle, and remove the top and bottom fasteners. Keep the boot orientation consistent with the old unit. Snug the fasteners, then torque them to the factory specification from a service manual with the weight of the truck on the suspension, so the bushings do not bind.
