The Bilstein B6 24-018685 is a rear monotube shock absorber for the Spartan EC2000 motorhome chassis, listed at 21.61 inches extended. Owners on user forums who have replaced Spartan chassis shocks with Bilstein units describe less jarring over expansion joints and potholes and more controlled body movement in turns, which is the practical reason to pay more than for a basic replacement. One owner noted that Spartan itself pointed them to Bilstein as the original equipment choice, so this unit matches the factory-spec supplier.
Check fitment before ordering. Published model-year ranges for the EC2000 vary, so confirm your chassis year and the extended length with the manufacturer first. Long-tail searches for a Spartan EC2000 rear shock replacement, Bilstein B6 24-018685 install, or motorhome monotube shock upgrade usually lead to the same concern: rear shock access is tight around the heat shield, so plan your tools and time accordingly.
Published year ranges for the EC2000 vary between sources, so the manufacturer should confirm the chassis year and extended length against your vehicle before you order.
The manufacturer's general installation guidance states that BILSTEIN shocks should be installed by a qualified suspension specialist, on a chassis hoist, with the vehicle securely supported.
Owners on user forums describe breaking the upper nut loose first, removing the lower mounting bolt, then holding the upper nut while turning the shock body. A long ratcheting box wrench helps where the heat shield blocks a standard ratchet.
This is a moderate-difficulty job for a home mechanic with a solid jack setup and patience. Plan on a socket and wrench set, a long ratcheting box wrench for the tight upper nut, and a scissor jack if you need to pull the lower mount into alignment, which owners report is useful on stiff heavy-duty units. The manufacturer's guidance advises a chassis hoist or secure support, and says not to clamp the shock in a vise or apply heat near it. Owners on user forums warn that the upper lock nut can resist and turn the shaft, and that an impact wrench can damage it, so use hand tools there. Replacing worn upper mounts and bump stops at the same time is a common forum recommendation.
