I know I've added several threads recently... sorry. I'm just so excited to start working on making my van road-worthy for several upcoming trips. I want it to drive nice and to be as reliable as possible so that my wife won't chew on me the rest of the trip. LOL....

So, I know I need to replace all of the shocks. I am interested in the Rancho 5000 series. What do the rest of you think of these for the van? Are there other shocks that some of you are totally gaga over and would recommend to me? Are the Rancho going to be too stiff? Do they last long or will I be replacing them again soon?

Thanks.

 

I went with Bilstein's for two reasons: 1. Their stellar reputation AND lifetime warranty 2. found all four delivered to my door next day for $326!

Just my personal preference---I've already installed Hellwig front and rear sway bars. If I didn't weigh 7,800# as a daily driver I'd think my E250 was a Ferrari!

 

LOL. That's awesome. I'll be looking into at least changing out the old rubber end links and such, but I am not sure about the sway bars themselves although I know good ones can make quite a difference. Hellwig? Never heard of them until now. I'll have to remember that.

As for the Bilsteins, yes, they do have a very good reputation. Thanks for your opinion. Always interested in knowing what others think. Keep it coming!

 

The RS5000 is a nice replacement to the stock shock, it is a firmer ride than stock. They come with a lifetime warranty as well. Save your receipt.

Rancho Suspension: Warranty & Ride Guarantee

Also our new RS7000MT (our new monotube) and the RS9000XL (the adjustables) are great as well, especially if you are concerned about the ride quality, you can adjust it to whatever you and your wife like.
Good luck in your choice and Happy New Year!

 

I put a set of kyb's on mine and am quite happy with them. Did the whole set for about $125, got them from rockauto.

 

Ranchos are in the middle of the range, great quality, medium prices, you should look them up.

 

The van I have came with them put on by the PO. 8 years later but not that many miles and they ride great and this is an E250!

I don't know much about current Rancho shocks but I put a set on my Ranger PU years ago and removed them within 2 days and put the stock ones back on until I could buy something that worked better. Way to stiff!
The rear wheels came off the ground on a bump that with the stock shocks I barely felt.

I use Bilstien when ever I can afford to put them on one of my vehicles and they make them for that vehicle. My DD has them as well as my race car!

 

I use Bilstien