bilsteins were standard on my tacoma with the trd pkg. i've never had ranchos so i cant compare. they are much stiffer than the regular shocks yielding in quicker response. you can take a speed bump at 30mph and not really even notice it. i would predict that off road the bilsteins would also help reduce bottoming.
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Silver Ice Xterra Xe
4x4 auto 3pk
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2000 XE 4x4, ARB bumper, 33x10.5 KM2, 3" fabtech SL, Skid Row skidplates, Calmini Sliders.