I tried searching for this, but haven't found much info. I know that the FX4 package on the 2006 trucks has the upgraded Rancho shocks, but I'm trying to find out if the springs are any different. I opted against the FX4 package because I figured I'd be lifting my truck pretty soon, but now have decided to keep it stock for the time being and was looking to purchase the suspension upgrade to have my truck ride like an FX4--which IMO is orders of magnitude better than the stock XLT ride.

So if I do upgrade, will I only need the Rancho shocks or will I need new springs as well?

Thanks

 

Hmmm.. . I looked at mine and I don't see any Rancho stuff - only OEM black shocks. The brochure says " off-road shocks, though .

Think the 4X4 spring rates are different between the XLT/FX4?

Also, mine rides nice and stiff - but that's also the twankies/stiff sidewalls.

Is this a Canada/US thing?

Cheers
Grog

 

It could be...I was just told that the FX4 had upgraded Rancho shocks...and if I know Rancho, they'd be sure to make them nice and bright Rancho red & white for recognition.

Anyone in the US know of a difference? Or do your FX4 shocks actually say "Rancho" anywhere on them?

 

I don't think their is a difference in the springs or shocks on the 04-07 Fx4's. The earlier body style Fx4's had "Rancho" shocks. However, they were valved the same as the shocks that were included on the towing package on all 4x4 F-150's. The shocks were just marketed to compete with the Bilstien's on the GM Z71 trucks.

 

So what is the difference between the FX4 and the XLT? Just different badging, interior, & 18" wheels?

 

I had the same issue when I bought my 2005 XLT. The dealer told me that the new body style does not use rancho, they use motorcraft. The XLT 4x4 and the FX4 use the same set up. The springs and shocks are the same. I would recommend getting the Bilstein 5100 adjustabole spring seat. I have them and they are by far the best shock I have ever owned. I have tried the Rancho 5000's and 9000's and they are worse than stock in my opinion. Just my 2 Cents. Good Luck

 

I'm going to have to go back to my dealer now...I could have SWORN that he showed me an FX4 with Rancho's...maybe not. However, what got all this started was that I test drove an FX4 and it rode like a dream, however I ended up buying an XLT, and this thing magnifies EVERY bump in the road--and there are a TON of bumps out here in Tucson. I did find some comfort in adjusting the seat up some. I don't know if the seat was radiating the bumps more since it was all the way at the lowest setting or not, but since raising it some in the rear, I don't feel the bumps like I used to.

You mentioned the Bilstein 5100 adjustable shocks above...anyone else using these? I really don't want to buy new shocks if I'm going to be lifting my ride in a year or so. I just figured I could buy some off someone who was lifting their rig and didn't need their stock FX4 shocks anymore. But now you've got me thinking that they are the same as mine. I'll have to check with my local dealership again...not that I don't trust you...I just thought I saw some red & white shocks under an FX4 when I was shopping.

Thanks for the info though

 

The Fx4's have different tires, wheels, trim and skid plates.

 

you should see what they do for the 4x2.....I switched out the entire coilover from the FX4 and the rear shocks w/blocks and the ride is like night and day. I can't figure why 4x2 owners are spending the money to lift with those leveling spacers, when they can just switch out the coilover and get 3" of lift AND a firmer ride AND not have the control arm look like it is going to snap.

Coincidentally I was driving through Georgia the other day and a section of the highway was made of concrete. I was beside another 4x2 and his entire front end was bouncing while mine was a level as can be.

 

My 03 FX4 had Rancho shocks, but my 06 FX4 doesn't.

 

I got behind a newer model ('04+) FX4 yesterday and it clearly had the red & white Rancho's on the rear. I'm going to have to head up to the Dealership this weekend and look around. Anyone know what model # Rancho's these are? Are they the 5000's?

 

If it had red and white Rancho's, they were aftermarket. FX4 comes with plain black shocks. Thay may be different than what is on the XLT or Lariat, but they are all black.

 

The XLT has the long bed, and the heavy duty package. The FX4 does not.

 

Ummm, ok....I'm just going to say it as nice as possible.

Get a life .

 

BTW: Yes, you need ALL new springs and shocks .