Bilstein AK2284 Suspension Shock Absorber - Rear

Bilstein B6 4600 Rear Shock Absorber

The Bilstein B6 4600 shock absorber is a direct-fit upgrade for stock-height light trucks and SUVs that need more controlled rear suspension performance. Built for the Ford F-150, Ford F-150 Heritage, and Ford F-250 applications listed below, part number AK2284 delivers consistent damping for everyday driving and load-carrying use.

Key Features

• Monotube internal design for consistent, fade-resistant performance
• Velocity-sensitive digressive piston reacts to changing road conditions
• Tuned for each specific application for balanced ride and handling
• Non-adjustable damping for straightforward OE-style replacement
• Blue straight boot and yellow painted finish
• Lower mount: eye 14.1mm; upper mount: stem

Product Line Details

The Bilstein B6 4600 series is aimed at stock-height trucks and SUVs that need a firmer, more controlled shock absorber without changing suspension height. This line focuses on application-specific tuning, which helps the rear suspension respond more consistently on pavement, rough roads, and when the vehicle is carrying added weight.

Detailed Description

Bilstein AK2284 is a rear suspension shock absorber engineered for direct replacement on select Ford trucks with heavy-duty or 7-lug wheel configurations. It is compatible with 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage, rear, with Heavy Duty Package (7-lug wheels); 2000-2003 Ford F-150, rear, with Heavy Duty Package (7-lug wheels); and 1997-1999 Ford F-250, rear, 7-lug Wheels. The monotube construction helps maintain stable damping performance, while the digressive piston design responds to road inputs with controlled compression and rebound characteristics. This makes AK2284 a practical choice for drivers looking to restore rear suspension control on a Ford F-150 or Ford F-250 without altering ride height.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive rear-end bounce over bumps and expansion joints
• Reduced control from worn OE rear shocks
• Unstable ride quality when the truck is loaded
• Inconsistent damping on rough or changing road surfaces
• Loss of handling precision in rear suspension response

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify rear fitment by year, model, and wheel/package configuration before installation. This shock uses a stem upper mount and an eye-style lower mount with a 14.1mm lower eye, so matching the mounting points on the vehicle is important. For best results, inspect related suspension components such as bushings and mounts during replacement, and confirm that the vehicle remains at stock ride height.

Quality Assurance

Bilstein designs the B6 4600 line as an application-specific OE-style upgrade for light trucks and SUVs, with tuning matched to the listed vehicle applications. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 172286, 182286) for the same application.