Hello all!
Very new member here... I need to replace the shocks on my '03 F-150 4WD. Heres what I'd like to do:

1) Replace shocks with higher-end ones that will help with 4-wheelin.
2) Upgrade to 17" rims (at a later date).

I'd like to do this without buying a lift kit, as I'm on a limited budget. I'm considering a leveling kit for the clearance advantages, but I kinda like the "stock look." I've been researching shocks and haven't found a lot of solid answers/opinions. I'm looking at Ranchos, Pro Comp, Monroe and Bilsteins. All are highly recommended for trucks with lifts, but I'm staying stock height for now. Any recommendations for stock shock replacement? Do I need special upgrades to put 17" rims on? I'll put it out to you guys...

Cheers
Teknokid

 

Monroe "Reflex"

 

I have the same year truck as you and recently replaced my stockers. A couple of things:

With shocks, you get what you pay for. Any of the 4 manufacturers you listed are very good to great, and their prices will reflect this. Whatever you decide to go with will be a big improvement over stock. I've ran Bilsteins for a couple of years on 2 different trucks and absolutely love them. They are IMO the best shocks on the market, but also the most expensive ($250 for all 4 on Ebay).

As far as a leveling kit goes, I would stay away from them for our truck. They will cause unnecessary wear and tear. If you want to level your truck so you aren't rubbing anymore, crank your torsion bars. This can be done for free but you should get an alighnment afterword. Other's will attest to staying away from aftermarket torsion keys/ leveling kits for the older f150 models (97-03).

Someone else will chime in about your wheel question...

 

I can get the Monroe shocks locally, but the Bilsteins will have tto be bought online. Eshocks are about $20 more than ebay, but come with a little more of a guarantee.
I wonder, how BIG of a difference shocks can make? Any opinions?

I did find some 16" rims I like, so I might stay with that size. Won't be getting tire/rims for a few months yet, but I 'm researching now. Anyone know off-hand the max tire size I can go?

Cheers

 

33x12.50's (305/70-16, or 305/65-17).

 

For shocks, I'm running Gabrial Ultra all around. They were $27 ea at AutoZone. I wanted new shocks but didn't want to spend alot because I am planning a lift kit soon and was looking for temp fix.

 

Looks like it'll be Bilsteins for me. Gonna try eshocks.com I think. Any recommendations on other places?

 

I got mine from rockauto.com but not sure if you will get the same savings as I did since I live in Canada. I saved almost $250 on a set of Monroe reflex shocks buying them online instead of locally. Price diff per shock was about $60-70.

 

I want to say theres another website with better prices than EShocks.com. I think its ShockWarehouse.com or something like that. Check that.

 

Hey 97XL - I know what you mean, I'm in Calgary - the land of no taxes and still overpay for auto parts!