1981 GMC G3500 Shocks and Struts

Essential 1981 GMC G3500 Shocks and Struts

KYB – High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock (Part No.565039)

High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock

from

$82.99
Tough conditions demand tough truck shocks. The large bore KYB MonoMax provides the additional stability that heavier, more powerful or high center of gravity vehicles demand. The KYB MonoMax is a heavy duty monotube shock absorber that provides the most handling, control and durability of any KYB shock; and its just for trucks. The MonoMaxs tough design automatically adjusts to driving conditions with fade-free performance. The KYB MonoMax has an outstanding reputation for vehicles that do real work, go off-road, tow a trailer or haul heavy loads. It uses a work-ready, zinc-coated steel piston ring and includes an off-road dust boot.

Product Features:
  • Maximum Performance Upgrade With Up To 40% More Damping Performance Than Standard Shock Absorbers
  • Perfect Solution When You Need To Upgrade Suspension Performance On Your Gm Truck
  • Truck Monotube Design Outperforms All Other Standard Shock Absorbers
  • Zinc-Coated, Stainless Steel Piston Ring Provides A Positive Seal In The Most Extreme Conditions
  • Rubber Boot To Protect The Shaft And Keep Dirt And Debris Away From The Seals
  • Engineered To Help Vehicles With Electronic Safety Systems (Esc, Abs, Etc.)
See More

Rancho – RS9000XL Shock Absorber (Part No.RS999116)

RS9000XL Shock Absorber

from

$153.99
Get premium control and performance with Rancho RS9000®XL shocks. Recognized as the first nine-position manually adjustable ride control series in the off-road market, RS9000XL shocks are ideal for on- and off-road use, towing and more.

Product Features:
  • NINE LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE — Nine-position easy-to-adjust knob allows customized damping control and firmness for on-road and off-road flexibility
  • DESIGNED FOR HARDWORKING VEHICLES — Ideal for stock or lifted trucks, SUVs and Jeeps that tow, haul or go off road
  • INDUSTRY FIRST — Recognized as the first nine-position manually adjustable shock series in the off-road market
  • REDUCES FADE — Nitrogen gas pressurized to 120 PSI to minimize air-to-oil mixture and reduce damping performance fade and foaming
  • STRONG AND DURABLE — Features an application-specific 18mm nitro-carburized piston rod to resist scuffs and corrosion, double-welded loops at stress areas and 1.25-in. sintered iron piston for enhanced structural integrity
  • HANDLES EXTREME TEMPERATURE CHANGES — Up to 2.75-in. tri-tube body (application specific) filled with all-weather fluid allows for cooler operation, increased vehicle control and ability to withstand internal temperatures of -40 to 248°F
  • SMOOTH PERFORMANCE — Polyurethane rebound bumper and bushings and graphite-filled fluon-banded piston help absorb ride harshness and enhance responsiveness to changing road conditions for an overall smoother ride
  • BUILT TO LAST — Low-friction, self-lubricating seal retains gas and oil for quicker rebound and smoother compression while the long-lasting premium liquid metallic finish and polyvinyl protective boot ensures long life
See More

Monroe – Gas-Matic Truck Shock Absorber (Part No.59045)

Gas-Matic Truck Shock Absorber

from

$42.49
Monroe® Gas-Matic truck shock absorber are gas charged and provide improved control at an economical price.

Product Features:
  • Available for import and domestic light trucks and vans
  • Gas-charged unit
  • Improved handling and control
  • Economical OE replacement
  • Meets OE product specifications
See More

KYB – Gas Shock (Part No.344262)

Gas Shock

from

$55.99
Ride Comfort may be important, but restoring a vehicles Ride Control, stability, stopping, lane change responsiveness and handling is critical. KYB Excel-G Shocks and Struts are designed for the most important performance purpose: Restoring the vehicles original capabilities. KYB is a world leading supplier of shocks and struts to new vehicle manufacturers and the Excel-G is made on the very same KYB OE assembly lines, uses the same OE quality components and is calibrated to restore original, designed performance, not change it. That has earned Excel-G the classification: OEA (Original Equipment for the Aftermarket). The KYB Excel-G is a nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design that includes every quality component that our global OEM products include and it is the preferred choice by professional technicians.

Product Features:
  • KYB Recommended Orem Replacement Shock
  • The KYB Excel-G Helps Restore The Designed Control And Handling Of Your Gm Truck
  • The KYB Excel-G Uses A Triple Lip Fluid Seal To Reduce The Chance Of Oil And Gas Leaking Out
  • Vehicle Specific, Hand Assembled, In-House Damping Valves Correctly Manage Tire Contact, Steering Response And Body Movement
  • Electronic Safety Systems Depend On The Suspension, Brakes And Tires Operating As The Vehicle Manufacturer Intended. The KYB Excel-G Helps Keep Electronic Safety Systems Performing As Designed.
  • KYB Has The Strongest And Thickest Strut Bodies And Brackets In The Industry; Minimizing Flex To Maintain Correct Alignment In All Conditions
See More

KYB – High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock (Part No.KG5420)

High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock

from

$81.99
The KYB Gas-a-just monotube shock absorber has additional performance advantages over the traditional twin-tube design: It can instantly, automatically adjust to your performance needs and never experiences fade due to aeration. The KYB Gas-a-just has two separate working chambers: An air-free hydraulic piston and valve area for responsiveness and control, and a second high-pressure nitrogen gas area with a floating piston that provides a comfortable ride during normal driving and adds instant performance on demand.

Product Features:
  • Adds Up To 25% More Damping Performance Over Original Equipment Shocks
  • Components And Valving Designed Specifically For Gm Trucks
  • Gas-A-Just Monotubes Include Additional Damping Over One Design For Vehicles That Work, Tow, And Have Larger, Heavier Tires & Wheels
  • High Pressure Monotube Design Separates The Gas And Oil For Fade Free Operation And Instant Response
  • Fluid Leaking Can Be A Cause Of Shock Failure, The KYB Gas-A-Just Has An Ultra-Smooth Triple Chrome Plated Chrome Piston Rod To Reduce Seal Wear
  • The Higher Gas Pressure Of The KYB Gas-A-Just Responds Quickly To Improve Steering Response
  • Electronic Safety Systems Depend On The Suspension, Brakes And Tires Operating As The Vehicle Manufacturer Intended. The KYB Gas-A-Just Helps Keep Electronic Safety Systems Performing As Designed.
See More

Timbren SES – Rubber Spring, Inside Coil Spring Mount, 3600Lb, Aeon Hollow Rubber (Part No.GMRG35)

Rubber Spring, Inside Coil Spring Mount, 3600Lb, Aeon Hollow Rubber

from

$454.99
Timbren suspension enhancement system – The decision is easy, Timbren suspension kits (SES kits) are designed to enhance the suspension of your vehicle. Improve load handling haul heavy loads with ease eliminate sag and sway.

Product Features:
  • Eliminate Suspension Sag: When Towing A Heavy Trailer, Timbren SES Extends The Life Of The Suspension Of Your Vehicle And Helps To Avoid Bottoming Out
  • Control Trailer Sway, A Condition Which Occurs With Unbalanced Loads, In Crosswinds Or When Passing Heavy Trucks Timbren SES Stabilizes Your Vehicle
  • Control Body Roll, During Cornering With Powerful Progressive Rate Rubber Springs Which Resist Lean And Enhance Vehicle Stability
  • Improve The Ride, By Allowing The Aeon(R) Rubber Springs Absorb Road Shocks And Bumps. Towing A Trailer Doesnt Have To Mean Poor Ride Quality
  • Economical And Trouble Free
  • Simple And Easy To Install
See More

KYB – High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock (Part No.KG5478)

High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock

from

$103.99
The KYB Gas-a-just monotube shock absorber has additional performance advantages over the traditional twin-tube design: It can instantly, automatically adjust to your performance needs and never experiences fade due to aeration. The KYB Gas-a-just has two separate working chambers: An air-free hydraulic piston and valve area for responsiveness and control, and a second high-pressure nitrogen gas area with a floating piston that provides a comfortable ride during normal driving and adds instant performance on demand.

Product Features:
  • Adds Up To 25% More Damping Performance Over Original Equipment Shocks
  • Components And Valving Designed Specifically For Gm Trucks
  • Gas-A-Just Monotubes Include Additional Damping Over One Design For Vehicles That Work, Tow, And Have Larger, Heavier Tires & Wheels
  • High Pressure Monotube Design Separates The Gas And Oil For Fade Free Operation And Instant Response
  • Fluid Leaking Can Be A Cause Of Shock Failure, The KYB Gas-A-Just Has An Ultra-Smooth Triple Chrome Plated Chrome Piston Rod To Reduce Seal Wear
  • The Higher Gas Pressure Of The KYB Gas-A-Just Responds Quickly To Improve Steering Response
  • Electronic Safety Systems Depend On The Suspension, Brakes And Tires Operating As The Vehicle Manufacturer Intended. The KYB Gas-A-Just Helps Keep Electronic Safety Systems Performing As Designed.
See More

KYB – High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock (Part No.KG6407)

High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock

from

$77.99
The KYB Gas-a-just monotube truck shock absorber has additional performance advantages over the twin-tube design: It can instantly, automatically adjust to your performance needs and never experiences fade due to aeration. The Gas-a-Just is available as an OE monotube replacement and as an OE twin-tube performance upgrade. The KYB Gas-a-Just has two separate working chambers: An air-free hydraulic piston and valve area for responsiveness and control, and a second high-pressure nitrogen gas area with a floating piston that provides a comfortable ride during normal driving and adds instant performance on demand.

Product Features:
  • Adds Up To 25% More Damping Performance Over Original Equipment Shocks
  • Components And Valving Designed Specifically For Heavy Duty Trucks
  • Gas-A-Just Monotubes Include Additional Damping Over One Design For Vehicles That Work, Tow, And Have Larger, Heavier Tires & Wheels
  • High Pressure Monotube Design Separates The Gas And Oil For Fade Free Operation And Instant Response
  • Fluid Leaking Can Be A Cause Of Shock Failure, The KYB Gas-A-Just Has An Ultra-Smooth Triple Chrome Plated Chrome Piston Rod To Reduce Seal Wear
  • The Higher Gas Pressure Of The KYB Gas-A-Just Responds Quickly To Improve Steering Response
  • Electronic Safety Systems Depend On The Suspension, Brakes And Tires Operating As The Vehicle Manufacturer Intended. The KYB Gas-A-Just Helps Keep Electronic Safety Systems Performing As Designed.
See More

Monroe – Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber (Part No.34839)

Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber

from

$63.99
Designed for midsize and full-size trucks and vans, Monroe® Gas-Magnum® shock absorbers provide firm control without a harsh ride. With up to twice the fluid capacity of standard 1-in. bore shocks, they work more efficiently with less effort.

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR TRUCKS AND VANS — Engineered for hardworking full-size trucks and vans and features full-displaced valving on compression cycles to deliver controlled ride and handling
  • BUILT TO LAST — Heavy-duty nitrocarburized rod (non-dust shield units only) and sintered iron piston enhance durability for longer service life while self-lubricating fluid seal reduces friction against piston rod to reduce wear
  • CONSISTENT RIDE — OE all-weather fluid contains special modifiers to handle extreme temperatures and help reduce friction and ensure smooth rod reaction
  • IMPROVES PERFORMANCE — Nitrogen gas-charge maintains tire-to-road contact for improved ride and handling by reducing aeration and shock fade
  • LONGER SERVICE LIFE — Larger bore and bigger 2-in. reserve tube work together to hold more oil for greater capacity to allow the shock to work efficiently for controlled ride and longer service life
  • Nitrogen Gas Charged: For improved ride and handling, helps maintain tire to road contact by reducing aeration – on most applications
  • Sintered Iron Piston: Stronger than traditional metals, enhances durability for longer service life.
  • Special Seal: ‘Self-lubricating’ fluid seal designed to retain gas without excessive wear or friction.
See More

Monroe – Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber (Part No.34910)

Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber

from

$65.99
Designed for midsize and full-size trucks and vans, Monroe® Gas-Magnum® shock absorbers provide firm control without a harsh ride. With up to twice the fluid capacity of standard 1-in. bore shocks, they work more efficiently with less effort.

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR TRUCKS AND VANS — Engineered for hardworking full-size trucks and vans and features full-displaced valving on compression cycles to deliver controlled ride and handling
  • BUILT TO LAST — Heavy-duty nitrocarburized rod (non-dust shield units only) and sintered iron piston enhance durability for longer service life while self-lubricating fluid seal reduces friction against piston rod to reduce wear
  • CONSISTENT RIDE — OE all-weather fluid contains special modifiers to handle extreme temperatures and help reduce friction and ensure smooth rod reaction
  • IMPROVES PERFORMANCE — Nitrogen gas-charge maintains tire-to-road contact for improved ride and handling by reducing aeration and shock fade
  • LONGER SERVICE LIFE — Larger bore and bigger 2-in. reserve tube work together to hold more oil for greater capacity to allow the shock to work efficiently for controlled ride and longer service life
  • Nitrogen Gas Charged: For improved ride and handling, helps maintain tire to road contact by reducing aeration – on most applications
  • Sintered Iron Piston: Stronger than traditional metals, enhances durability for longer service life.
  • Special Seal: ‘Self-lubricating’ fluid seal designed to retain gas without excessive wear or friction.
See More

Rancho – RS5000 Shock Absorber (Part No.RS5113)

RS5000 Shock Absorber

from

$66.99
The shock that started it all! Rancho® RS5000 series has been the shock of choice for light trucks and sport utility vehicles since 1985. Available for stock and lifted applications, RS5000 is ideal for on and off-road use, at an affordable price.

Product Features:
  • Ten-stage velocity sensitive valving – Provides tuning specific for each vehicle
  • 5/8-in. (16mm) diameter piston rod (select applications) – Adds strength and durability. Size varies by application.
  • 1 3/8-in. (35mm) diameter piston (select applications) – Ensures performance in any environment
  • Protective boot included – Protects the shock rod and oil seal
See More

KYB – High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock (Part No.565060)

High Pressure Monotube Gas Shock

from

$133.99
Tough conditions demand tough truck shocks. The large bore KYB MonoMax provides the additional stability that heavier, more powerful or high center of gravity vehicles demand. The KYB MonoMax is a heavy duty monotube shock absorber that provides the most handling, control and durability of any KYB shock; and its just for trucks. The MonoMaxs tough design automatically adjusts to driving conditions with fade-free performance. The KYB MonoMax has an outstanding reputation for vehicles that do real work, go off-road, tow a trailer or haul heavy loads. It uses a work-ready, zinc-coated steel piston ring and includes an off-road dust boot.

Product Features:
  • Maximum Performance Upgrade With Up To 40% More Damping Performance Than Standard Shock Absorbers
  • Perfect Solution When You Need To Upgrade Suspension Performance On Your Gm Truck
  • Truck Monotube Design Outperforms All Other Standard Shock Absorbers
  • Zinc-Coated, Stainless Steel Piston Ring Provides A Positive Seal In The Most Extreme Conditions
  • Rubber Boot To Protect The Shaft And Keep Dirt And Debris Away From The Seals
  • Engineered To Help Vehicles With Electronic Safety Systems (Esc, Abs, Etc.)
See More

Rancho – RS5000 Shock Absorber (Part No.RS5116)

RS5000 Shock Absorber

from

$68.99
The shock that started it all! Rancho® RS5000 series has been the shock of choice for light trucks and sport utility vehicles since 1985. Available for stock and lifted applications, RS5000 is ideal for on and off-road use, at an affordable price.

Product Features:
  • Ten-stage velocity sensitive valving – Provides tuning specific for each vehicle
  • 5/8-in. (16mm) diameter piston rod (select applications) – Adds strength and durability. Size varies by application.
  • 1 3/8-in. (35mm) diameter piston (select applications) – Ensures performance in any environment
  • Protective boot included – Protects the shock rod and oil seal
See More

Monroe – Shock-Mate Shock Absorber Boot Kit (Part No.SA1997)

Shock-Mate Shock Absorber Boot Kit

from

$13.99
Monroe® Shock-Mate® Shock Absorber Boot Kits are universal replacement shock boots use to protect the shock’s piston rod from dirt, mud and other contaminants – protecting the life of your shocks.

Product Features:
  • Protects the shock’s piston rod from damage
  • Universal design for easy installation
  • Tie-strap included for a secure fit
  • Constructed from high quality urethane for maximum durability
  • Multiple color choices available
See More

Monroe – Shock-Mate Shock Absorber Boot Kit (Part No.SA1998)

Shock-Mate Shock Absorber Boot Kit

from

$13.29
Monroe® Shock-Mate® Shock Absorber Boot Kits are universal replacement shock boots use to protect the shock’s piston rod from dirt, mud and other contaminants – protecting the life of your shocks.

Product Features:
  • Protects the shock’s piston rod from damage
  • Universal design for easy installation
  • Tie-strap included for a secure fit
  • Constructed from high quality urethane for maximum durability
  • Multiple color choices available
See More

1981 GMC G3500 Shocks and Struts

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC G3500. Maybe you just need a couple of Shocks and Struts. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 22 different Shocks and Struts in our inventory ranging from $13.29 to $454.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 GMC G3500 running smoothly.

Shocks and Struts are only as good as their brand. We stock 5 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1981 GMC G3500. Monroe, Rancho, and KYB are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Shocks and Struts for your 1981 GMC G3500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 322 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber with 1.0 stars and Magnum RV Shock Absorber with 5.0 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Shocks and Struts to keep your 1981 GMC G3500 rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Shocks and Struts Brands To Make Your 1981 GMC G3500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC G3500 demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Shocks and Struts make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your G3500 the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Shocks and Struts brands and parts.

Popular Rancho Shocks and Struts

We carry Rancho parts in our stock across Front Shock and Struts categories, plus more. For a 1981 GMC G3500, our most popular Rancho Shocks and Struts include:
RS5000X Shock Absorber
from $85.99
(3)
RS5000X Shock Absorber
Front Shock and Struts
RS5000 Shock Absorber
from $66.99
(10)
RS5000 Shock Absorber
Front Shock and Struts

FAQs for 1981 GMC G3500 Shocks and Struts

What are the most purchased Shocks and Struts for the 1981 GMC G3500?

Out of 22 Shocks and Struts for the 1981 GMC G3500, the most popular in our inventory are:
Gas-Matic Truck Shock Absorber
from $42.49
(3)
Gas-Matic Truck Shock Absorber
Rear Shock and Struts
Gas-Matic LT Shock Absorber
from $38.99
(4)
Gas-Matic LT Shock Absorber
Front Shock and Struts
Gas-Matic Truck Shock Absorber
from $42.49
(4)
Gas-Matic Truck Shock Absorber
Front Shock and Struts

What are the top-rated 1981 GMC G3500 Shocks and Struts?

Top-rated Shocks and Struts for your 1981 GMC G3500 based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber
from $65.99
(2)
Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber
“Bought these for the rear of a 1984 K20. Doesn’t come with mounting hardware for the top. The old ones the mounting hardware is pressed in with t”
Magnum RV Shock Absorber
from $75.99
(1)
Magnum RV Shock Absorber
“Easy install and nice product”
Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber
from $63.99
(1)
Gas-Magnum Shock Absorber
“Good price. Made big difference.”