Same truck, 97' XLT 2wd. (July 96' Build Date).

Is there a good go to shock for these trucks that won't break the bank but will give a great ride. No lift (it's a 2wd lol), not racing, or offroading, ect. This has been retired to my comfy summer cruising truck. At the most I may drive her on a road trip some 360 miles to go fishing and some of the roads get really bumpy.

At present she bucks like a boat on waves. The Monroe's that are on there now are from when there was around 60k on the clock and it's at 156k now.

 

Did you ever get an answer? I just picked up a '98 standard 2wd with 160k and it's rockin'

 

Motorcaft has some decent ones, see Rockauto.

My '77 has for years been happy on Monroe gas magnums, not sure they still mae?

 

Can't decide between the Monroe standard OEM replacements or Gas Magnums.

How much difference is there in ride quality? I don't mind a firm suspension, but I'm used to performance cars...not trucks.

 

I've liked either. The Gas Magnums do keep the rear from sagging too much while towing.

 

My '77 has had it's Gas Magnums since early 90s at least, very good riding yet controlled always. I might someday repaint them with Rustoleum and keep on as the original paint on them is giving up. No issues with seals or the rods though.. I bought mine on sale at NAPA back then after a wrecker operator buddy recommended them.