Hey Jake. No worries about it being discussed before. Because shock (and overall suspension) performance is not only a testable physical reality, but also VERY personal when it comes to an individual's opinions and experiences. So every discussion can be unique.
Fully worth bringing up then, in my opinion.
I would have to say that it is very possible they would be an improvement from your description. After all, the reason we sell them in the first place is so customers can have the option of upgrading between the three different brands/models.
I'd have to say, at least from customer feedback and reading responses here on the forums, that they've got it going on over the adjustable Ranchos as well.
The WH shocks are still a good part, and perhaps going with dual shocks up front is one way around your issue. But so far those using a single Bilstein 5100 per corner are almost 100% adamant that they ride and handle well on and off road. For those that have had their Broncos long enough too, most of them say the 5100's are the best shock they've ever had on their Broncos. That's a big deal when you realize how many varied opinions there can be about a given part sometimes.
We've been selling them for a few years now because they had some good reviews from people we trusted and they'd fall right in the middle of the price range between the WH shocks and the adjustable RS9000's from Rancho. And we (and the customers) have not been disappointed.
Seems Bilstein got the design and valving just right for Broncos.
Some people think our shocks are too soft, some think they're too stiff, and others think they're just right. The Ranchos are universally hailed for being adjustable over a very wide range, and reliable and recognizable. But many (including myself) just never felt that they nailed the valving just right. Good, but never just perfect.
But so far the Bilstein users are a bunch of happy campers.
I don't think your tube bumper is all that heavy (45-55 lbs maybe?), but the winch and bumper combo certainly add some motion to the front. Is the winch mount custom? Or is this a smaller tube "Pre-Runner" style bumper you're talking about? When you said "older style" I immediately thought of the double-tube Smittybilt style.;D
I have a very similar setup to yours. I'm driving a '68 right now that I got from another member here, with a Hanson bumper and winch on the front, with our shocks and the 2.5" as well. It actually works and handles very well, but I'd say also that it could be described as a little "floaty" under some circumstances.
It's not really bouncy or too soft for me, as it sounds like you're describing? Perhaps we're feeling the same thing and it's just wording that's different?
I also just happen to have Bilstein 5100's in the garage waiting for some time to install them. Guess for the sake of this discussion, I'll have to try to do it asap so I can give you a direct comparison opinion.
Been wanting to try them on my '71 project with 3.5" lift, but that's still a long way from happening, so looks like I will be putting them on the '68.
Anyway, call in when you can and see what feedback you get from the other guys.
How long have you had the suspension? Is this previously lifted 5.5 Bronco? What shocks did it have before?
Good luck.
Paul