Struts and coil assembly
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Struts and coil assembly
I have a 2004 F-150 FX4, it is getting close to time to replace the shocks. I hate the fact that it has struts, would love to get rid of them. I have noticed the F-250 has separate coil and shock. I am wondering what it would take to put that part of the suspension and put it on the 150. Can it be done and if so what has to be done.
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 124
Likes: 0
There should be no need for an alignment on this system because the strut doesn't support the steering knuckle/spindle assembly as with most cars. You are only changing the spring and 'shock' out at the same time.
Trending Topics
Hotshot
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 10,459
Likes: 10
From: RVA
If you're simply uninstalling the strut assembly, replacing the shock, and reinstalling then you won't need to realign. You'll only need to realign if you remove the control arms at any point, or if you add a leveling kit in the process.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Ford Trucks Coming to Mecum Indy 2026
Brett Foote
5 Best / 5 Worst Ford Truck Wheels of All Time
Joe Kucinski
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,293
Likes: 18
On a 2004 I doubt if the front coil springs are worn out unless its had some rough use. I would go on line (shock warehouse), pick out the struts I want, get them and take them to a shop to be installed. I would go with Bilsteins. Best shocks I ever had.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 799
Likes: 13
From: East L.A.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/370847781931?lpid=82
More Turbo
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 538
Likes: 24
From: Ojai California
This is less than an hours labor charge...
Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor Single Action Clamshell with Safety Bar | eBay
Macpherson Strut Spring Compressor Single Action Clamshell with Safety Bar | eBay
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
coils & struts
I don't think they are worn out, just would like a set up like what is on the F-250.
More Turbo
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 538
Likes: 24
From: Ojai California
Changing shocks/struts on a newer 150, is not routine maintenance, probably go about 80,000 on factory struts, go to higher quality aftermarkets after that, probably last the life of the truck,...
Laughing Gas
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 799
Likes: 13
From: East L.A.
Several makers of these, from $45-ish to $1K-ish. Coils springs are coil springs. As long as the tool will accomodate the springs diameter in its working range it will work.
Several videos on you-tube show how to use them.
Several videos on you-tube show how to use them.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
I am only going on what my local garage told me, that it was necessary to realign.