97-03 fx4 and reg 4x4???
 

Just wondering what was different on a fx4 in these years, I'm guessing shocks but what else?

I'm pretty sure the only difference was the Rancho shocks, LS differential and additional skid plates, other then the obvious cosmetics.

Those are the only mechanical differences I have noticed.

Cosmetic wise the 17" FX4 wheels and the stickers on the box were the only two changes.

don't forget about the steering dampner

In 2000 I bought a new 4x4 and the off road model had skid plates and 17" wheels. I preferred the regular model because I thought the 16" wheels that year looked better and since it had a 3.55 rear, I didn't want the effect of larger wheels on the gearing. My standard 4x4 had traction lok.

The 2002 that I bought last week is a FX4. I was wondering about the Rancho shocks. I thought the previous owner had installed them. I think this truck rides a little stiffer probably because of those shocks.

?? - What steering dampner

...And the Dark Shadow Grey two-tone.

it wasnt always dark shadow gray.... some have silver or tan 2-tone

im pretty sure they dont come with one.

im not sure about the 97-03 but 04-08's my xlt came with skid plates and LS, im sure it was an option for the 97-03's as well.

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e5...a3d6c5a2e4.jpg
<Br>
my fx4 came with the rancho shock but they werent that good so i put 4 new rough country shocks, black trim and a sun roof.

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e5...dd40c690-1.jpg
my fx4 came with the ranchos but i took those out and got the rough country shocks. it also came with a sun roof

so only the 3/4 ton and larger trucks came with the steering dampner???

I went with Edelbrock IAS shocks. World of difference.

I presume you mean a better quality ride. My 02 FX4 rides harder than I like, harder than my 2000 standard supercab 4x4. I'm tempted to change the shocks to make it ride better. The Edelbrocks are probably a very good choice for my preferences.