Need opinions on shocks replacement

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Nov 3, 2013 | 07:42 PM

JohnnyDiaz

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Dec 2009

Posts: 20

Likes: 0

Need opinions on shocks replacement

Well its time to finally replace the shocks and they are almost shot. I have a 2002 Ford Excursion 7.3 Diesel 4x4 with all stock suspension. I have chosen to go with Bilstein 24-185479 for the rear and Bilstein 24-185462 for the fronts. Any thoughts or opinions? I just want to stick with factory ride height but get a smoother ride. Also possibly changing the front and rear leaf springs. Anyone have this combo?

Nov 3, 2013 | 08:19 PM

EXv10

Post Fiend

Joined: Mar 2009

Posts: 11,798

Likes: 14

From: Mt. Shasta California

Monroe-matic standard shocks, they will do everything they are supposed to do and save you some money.

Nov 3, 2013 | 08:23 PM

JohnnyDiaz

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Dec 2009

Posts: 20

Likes: 0

Forgive me for my ignorance but what is the difference? I'm a complete newbie. My suspension is in need of a major over haul and could use some help. I would like to keep the factory ride height but would like a much better ride. I'm also reading that changing the leaf spring will ehlp but don't know which shock / leaf spring comob will work best. I can buy the bilstein front & rear from ebay for $252.

Nov 4, 2013 | 12:55 AM

Tylus

MMNC (SS)(Ret)

Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 11,606

Likes: 151

From: SE Georgia

Quote:

Originally Posted by EXv10

Monroe-matic standard shocks, they will do everything they are supposed to do and save you some money.

ditto.

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnnyDiaz

you can get all 4 replacement shocks for about $90 shipped from RockAuto. they run $19-22 each

highway rigs don't need superwhamadyne shocks. they need shocks. it's your money, but I'd spend it elsewhere on more worthwhile mods. like replacement springs

Nov 4, 2013 | 01:34 AM

Magnus E

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Jul 2013

Posts: 1,336

Likes: 11

From: Danbury, CT

The Bilstein is a great choice. I installed the 4600 on otherwise stock suspension and made a world of difference. Smooth and settled. Sounds like you found a good price.

Nov 4, 2013 | 10:58 AM

fishintheobx

Senior User

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 307

Likes: 0

From: Siesta Key, FL

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnnyDiaz

You sound like me a few years back... If you want to take the best approach, start doing your research on the V/B spring swap and what it will take to get through it. It's F250/350 springs and putting them on your Ex. Search is your friend...there is tons of info on this very forum. The history lesson here is they put softer springs on the Excursion than the p-ups to appeal to more family-oriented needs. Over time, the heavy truck, the miles, the soft springs make for a bad combo. Only downside is you'll likely pick up 2-3" in ride height, but it's more than likely what you think is factory ride height today really isn't due to worn out springs. But the ride and handling will be tons better than what you have. There are some veterans on this forum when it comes to the project. Most are nice, some are grouchy from getting the same questions...but all know their stuff!

Shocks? I like my Rancho 9000 adjustables. But if you do a spring-swap, shocks will be one part of your project. Good luck!

Nov 4, 2013 | 12:31 PM

housedad

Cargo Master

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 2,790

Likes: 24

From: Mount Royal, NJ

If you tow a lot or tow heavy, then Bilsteins.

If you don't tow at all with OEM springs, then I find myself in a rare place: I have to agree with Brent.
Monroe-matic shocks are the way to go.

That felt weird...

LOL Brent!