Direct-fit OE upgrade front shock for classic Ford F-250 (1987–1998) and F-350 (1986–1997) at stock height. 4WD with solid front axle. Fits both coil spring and leaf spring front configurations. 46mm monotube design. No hardware included. Made in the USA.
The Bilstein 24-016179 B6 4600 Series Front Shock Absorber is the front upgrade for the classic OBS (Old Body Style) Ford F-250 and F-350 heavy-duty trucks — covering 1987–1998 for the F-250 and 1986–1997 for the F-350. This is the era of the 7.3L IDI diesel, the early 7.3L Powerstroke, the 6.9L diesel, and some of the most enduring work trucks ever built. Many are still in active service as tow vehicles, farm trucks, and restoration projects.
The front suspension on these trucks takes substantial punishment: the heavy front axle, diesel engine weight, and sustained towing loads accelerate front shock wear. Worn front shocks on these trucks translate directly into steering wander, front-end float, and the characteristic heavy-truck looseness that comes with worn suspension. The 4600 series, precisely application-tuned for the OBS F-250/F-350 solid front axle, restores and improves all of that at stock ride height.
Application-tuned for the solid front axle on classic 1986–1998 F-250 and F-350 trucks — the OBS and early Super Duty era
Fade-free front damping under the substantial front axle loads of heavy-duty OBS F-Series trucks
Fits OBS F-250/F-350 equipped with either front coil springs or front leaf springs — both configurations are supported
Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA. Backed by Bilstein's limited lifetime warranty
F-250 vs F-350 Year Spans Differ: The F-250 fitment starts in 1987 (not 1986) while the F-350 starts in 1986. The F-250 extends to 1998 while the F-350 ends at 1997. Verify your specific model year before ordering. 4WD Only: This shock is for 4WD F-250 and F-350 trucks with solid front axle. 2WD F-250/F-350 use a different front shock. Sold Individually: One shock absorber per package. Order qty 2 for a complete front axle replacement. Stock Height Only: The B6 4600 Series is for stock-height applications only.
In The Box (Qty: 1 Shock Absorber): • Bilstein 24-016179 Front Shock Absorber • Blue Protective Boot • Black Rubber Bushings NOT Included: • Mounting Hardware (uses existing OEM hardware) • Second shock (sold individually — order qty 2 for a complete front pair)
24-016186 — Rear B6 4600 shock for 1982–1998 Ford F-250 and 1991–1997 F-350 (pairs with this front shock) 24-013284 — Front B6 4600 shock for 1980–1997 Ford F-150 / F-250 / F-350 / Bronco (lighter-duty F-Series with standard chassis) For a complete OBS F-250/F-350 suspension upgrade, pair this front shock with the 24-016186 rear shock. Replacing all four shocks delivers the most balanced improvement in front-end control and overall driving confidence.
Bilstein Official Product Page Bilstein Technical Support: Website: www.bilstein.com Warranty: Limited Lifetime for original purchaser — B6 4600 series gas pressure shocks. Proof of purchase required. See full terms at Bilstein's website.
The 24-016179 fits the following vehicles at stock ride height with 4WD and solid front axle. Fits both coil spring and leaf spring front configurations. Sold individually — order two for a complete front replacement.
⚠️ Fitment cross-referenced across Amazon, Norcal Diesel Performance, ShockWarehouse, XDP, and Diesel Power Products. Note that the F-250 standard starts at 1987 while the F-350 starts at 1986, and the F-250 HD (8-lug) fits through 1998. All variants require 4WD with solid front axle. Always verify your specific year and configuration before ordering.