Been thinking that my rough riding truck might need a new suspension. I know there are a few things that need to be checked, but could you all give me some advice on (1)what to have looked at and (2) how much a new suspension would probably run(ie, shocks, strut)

 

Depending on how many miles your have. Whether or not you made any mods or the suspension is stock all would play into what you may need to do. If you have a stock set up your 01 has coil on lower front for a 4x2 and torsion bar if 4x4. Hotchkiss leafs in the rear. Basically the ride will mostly be affected by shocks on all. The front will also need to have the lower ball studs done anywhere between 90 and 130K. Steering linkage is another thing. All of the links are prone to wear and the ball studs will need to be looked at. Pay special attention to the idler arm on the RH side.
Your best bet is to take it to shop that you trust and have it looked at. You are looking at a couple of hundred for shocks all around but much more for other items.
Good luck. BTW if she runs good its worth fixing!