A quick history - I have a 2007 2WD Supercrew XLT. About 3 years ago, I installed Bilstein 5100 all around. I installed the Bilsteins because I bought into the manufacturer's notion that they were the 'correct' way to lift an F150, rather than using the more common spacer that sits on top of the front struts. I re-used the factory front springs and set the ride height adjustment on the front shocks at the top setting. I also added 1" shims on the rear. At that time, I also installed a set of 33" LT275/70 R18 BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO on factory steel rims. The result was a great-looking truck that sat level and stout, with the tires sitting neatly within the line of the fenders. Unfortunately, the ride was intolerably harsh, even when the E-rated BFGs were pumped to 40PSI. While I enjoyed better cornering with the new setup, I really missed the factory's smooth and comfy ride and effortless handling.

The first change I made was to swap the hard and heavy BFGs and steel wheels for factory take-off P275/65 Goodyear Wrangler SA tires and wheels from a 2012 FX4. While the ride was noticeably better, it was still too harsh.

I want to enjoy driving my truck again and am considering going back to a stock suspension setup with better-riding (but slightly taller than stock) 32" P275/65 R18 Michelin LTX MS2 tires. It's almost time to retire the Wranglers, so it's a good excuse for making the other changes as well. I've been looking at the Monroe Quick-Strut stock replacements which come loaded with new front springs but no lift. I would remove the shims in the rear and install compatible Monroe rear shocks as well.

Has anyone had experience with the ride quality and durability of the Monroe Quick-Struts? I've read they are equal to, or better, than Ford's factory components, and less expensive. That said, I've never spoken with anyone that actually installed the Monroe replacement struts on a truck like mine. Alternately, has anyone installed the Bilstein 5100 with the ride height set at the lowest, or stock setting? Is the ride less harsh? If I pull out the rear shims but keep the Bilstein 5100 rear shocks, will the added travel of those shocks still work at the factory bed height?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

I installed a set on my truck last summer with a 1/2" spacer on top. The ride quality is great and my truck rides like its new again. Prior to that, I had 4x4 length coil overs in my 2wd which raised the front of the truck a full 2.5" and it was extremely stiff.

You'll like them and they're also really easy to instal. With a 32" tire, you may want to add a 1/2" or 1" spacer as you may look kind of stuffed with a stock height front end.

 

I have the Rancho 9000 quick struts and they are very nice. Fully adjustable and level the truck just right. The shocks adjust from a cushy pillow ride, to a tight but firm ride. I have mine at set at 4 right now which is just a tad bit firmer than a stock ride, and I can change it up whenever I feel like. I'm also running the Rancho 7000MT's in the rear which are also a good all around ride and calm the rear end down over bumps. Plus Rancho has great customer service, they really helped me out when I ran into a issue with installation.

 

Those are great quick struts. I would have bought them if they made them for a stock height ride.

If the op wants to still level his truck, those would be a good choice. However, since he is coming from 5100's, it seems the Ranchos would be pretty similar to what he currently has.

 

Changing the suspension geometry in any way will alter how the truck behaves and "feels"

 

I put the Rancho Quick Lift Loaded's on a little over 3 years ago (55k miles)...

I personally like the ride and the near level height...I put on BFG Rugged Terrains at the same time (LT275/65/18 E rated)...can't really complain...I have mine set at 9...rides like a Caddilac or... err...a Lincoln on the Freeway...I would recommend them to a friend!

FWIW!

Best Holiday Wishes!