93 F-150 2WD 81k miles

I recently replaced the original shocks on my truck with general quality parts (all 4 at $30 each - Monroe Matic). One rear was leaking. I was surprised that the ride quality was not improved in fact it may be more harsh than before. Tires are year old Michelins. Are better shocks likely to improve my situation?

 

Short answer, NO.

There are some better shocks out there but are they worth the money, probly not in your case.

The biggest problem is you have an empty truck with rear leaf springs, leaf springs ride better with a load on them. The front (coil springs) should be a way smoother ride than the back but the easiest way to make an empty pickup ride smoother is to put some weight in the bed. Bags of sand are usually the cheapest and easiest to get. You'll need a pile of them though. Of course now you'll be heavier which will hurt your MPG a little but it's up to you.

 

What he said. Shocks only dampen the up and down moment of the axle. If you want a new set of leaf springs, I heard that Deaver makes smooth riding leaf springs.

 

RAS, ATS B code springs, rear sway bar and Bilstein shocks are what I recommend. If you need extra help, air bags are always an option.