Shock absorbers Bilstein or OEM Volkswagen

If you're just trying to level you could try a set of adjustable height Bilstein shocks. That Rancho looks like it's leaking as you've already described.

Qmulus that is a great tip for removing that bolt. When I put my Golf R control arms and Audi solid rear bushings on our 2013 tiguan I lowered the sub frame because I was installing the dead set kit at the same time. Along with HD Bilstein shocks.

Best thing I did was put Bilstein 5100's on it in place of the Ranchos.

As was mentioned already, the Bilstein B4 is available for the front and rear of the Atlas. I have a full set of B4s on my mkV Jetta and they are fantastic. Quite firm but still comfortable. They rebound once and the party's over, unlike the Atlas which pogos down the road.

Bilstein claims around 10% stiffer dampening and rebound over OEM. I've had both B6 and B4's on my Passat, and the B4's was something I preferred more.

However if you're willing to spend upwards of $300 per shock bilstein b6 shocks go great with heavy loads.

Bilsteins would be a better option to choose from as they have direct replacement shock valving that offers a better ride then the stock rancho's but its all personal preference. Bilsteins while stiffer then stock some find too stiff (they're main goal you can say is handling)

Bilsteins have never failed to deliver for me. They spend so much on R&D and valving test and tune that they just perform so much better.

I just did the 5100's at 2". I also have a +0 offset wheel (this matters). My 275/70R17's rub the mudflap at full turn when entering a driveway.

I had 4600s on my k1500 and it still rode awful. Tried Pro Comp premium shocks and they were even worse vs the 100k Bilstens.