This is a realy simple question, I have a 98 4X2 with the 4.6, I've got about 67000 miles on it so far and I've noticed that the front end is not settleing down after a bump like it did when it was new. Since the front suspension is all original still I'm beting the factory Shocks are about dead. I've heard alot about rancho 9000's and wanted to get some opinions on a good replacement shock that can also improve the handling and ride. I'm not sure if I want to change the ride height either, although I do know that I don't want it any lower. Just looking for what others have tried and what the outcome has been. Last but not least where's the best place to buy them online or otherwise?

 

At 67K the factory shocks are fried. Yes, Rancho RS9000s are "one" of the best shocks; highly recommended by me. I have my factory heavy duty shocks outside in a box with 750 miles on them if anyone wants a cheap replacement set. If you go Rancho, they always have them cheap here www.4wheelparts.com

 

I have heard many rave about the 9000's, and the Edelbrocks. I want to replace my shocks again soon, and I'm riding the fence whether to go expensive or cheap. Yes, your shocks were probably goners around 45k, if not before. It's amazing how much your everyday vehicle can deteriorate(sp?) before you notice. I replaced my front shocks at about 43k, and it still rode badly, and rattled horribly. I then replaced the rears a couple of days later, and it corrected most of the problems. Strangely enough, before I changed the rears, it felt like the front shocks were still bad. Yesterday I put on some lowering shackles with urethane bushings, and it made a BIG difference. The rear axle no longer feels like it's just along for the ride The ride and handling improved alot. I know you mentioned you didn't want to go lower, but there are shackles that can be adjusted to either 1" or 2" of drop, the urethane bushings really help!!,,,,98

 

I did luck out on the rear suspension in that I took it in to my dealer with 35K on it complaining of a squeaking sound coming from the rear. The dealer verified the concern and said I had defective leaf springs and replaced them under warranty. Oddly this did not stop the squeaking, I later fixed that by simply lubing the latches on the tailgate. Either way, a free set of leaf springs on Ford worked for me. I also wanted to put a sway bar in the rear and put a better one in the front. Would you recommend doing them at the same time? Thanks again for the input.