My '72 F250 Custom is in need of new shocks. Definitely in the front, not sure about the rear. I've seen on here and on Fordification.com that people like the Monroe Gas-Magnums. The Monroe website lists a few different options that would be suitable, including a couple of Gas-Magnums (34900 and 34911).

They also list a load-adjusting shock for the rear (58518). This one has a coil spring around it. Is the spring like a built-in helper spring?

The other front shock listed (37053) has different mounts from the others, at least in the photos.

Anyone have experience with any or all of these? Likes or dislikes? Alternatives? What's with the different mounts?

 

I've heard nothing bad about the gas-magnum shocks. Supposedly one of the best for these trucks.

 

Since my 67 F100 is getting faster by the day from my carb tuning, I'm starting to think the front end is a bit soft too. It has a set of KYB shocks on it but they don't look new. The old push down hard on the front end doesn't give too much bouncing, just a couple of diminishing bounces, pretty slight.

Does anyone make any adjustable shocks for these trucks?

 

So... what shocks do you recommend? Daily driving, not planning to put any major loads in the bed.

 

Monroe sensa-trac shocks are nice. But I would go with the gas magnums if it were me. I use my truck for everything. I might even go to rancho next time.

 

I took a look at the Rancho site but they don't have any listings for trucks this old. I would like to go with the Ranch 9000 that is adjustable.

I need to find the dimensions/specs for what fits these trucks.

 

Monroe coil-overs used to be called Load Levelers. I have a set on my '63. Great shocks.
I have KYB Gas-a-just on my '72, also great shocks.

 

Funny you mention this. I just got my 71 F100 2WD back yesterday with my new rear shocks on it. The old ones were completely toast, and I had been waiting to do this for awhile ($). I went with the Monroe SensaTrac Coil Over Shocks you mentioned (58518). They are exactly what I was after.

I do plan on doing a little towing/hauling with my truck, and that played into my decision somewhat. So, while I've only driven it for about 20 mins. since getting it back, I can tell a huge difference. It may seem a little stiff for some, but it's a 71 Pickup Truck, I don't expect to ride like my Suburban.

The coil overs are not a substitute for sagging leaf springs. This is where the Helper Springs come in (extra support for leaf springs). The coil overs like these Monroes are the perfect rear truck shock in my opinion.

Next month, the fronts go on (they're toast, too). I'll be getting some KYB's for the front. These were whole heartedly recommended to me for the front by my mechanic as far as performance & value are concerned.

That's my 2 cents.

Bob

 

Thank you, Bob! Great, thorough, answer!

 

What have your found out, quinltec?

 

Shocks are on hold at the moment. Too much other crap going on. Will post when I make my move.

 

Wow... I can relate to that!

 

Shockwarehouse.com has a complete set of front and rear shocks for $115, delivered. These are KYB Excel-G shocks. Anyone know anything about these?

I know just from comparison shopping I am not going to do much better than $115, but am I getting junk in return for my money? Or are KYB shocks good quality?

 

Kyb is of better quality. Not a cheap brand anyway.

I looked quick, and a set of Monroe gas magnums that I want are 135

 

KYB shocks are excellent shocks. The shocks you mentioned are their OEM style shock absorber. The Gas-a-just line is their performance shock absorber.