Shocks
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 1,446
Likes: 9
From: NE Iowa JD Country
I do not have a plow, but replaced mine with Ranch-o 5000's ( supposedly a direct replacement for what my FX4 came with). They fit and all, but the ride is not the same, especially in corners. The new ones were substantially smaller diameter and maybe a touch shorter.
I would suggest some heavy duty Bilsteins or I heard of others having good luck with Monroe HD & maybe beefier coil springs
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 354
Likes: 5
From: Katy, Republic of Texas
There is no "best" shock for these trucks (or any vehicle). Every shock and every driver is different. What I like may not be what you like.
I have the Monroe Gas Magnum in the front and Gabriel Ultra's on the rear. Noticed no difference in the rear between the 180,000 mile OEM and the Gabriel, but was not expecting to, was not having a problem to start off with.
I did notice a smoother ride when I put the Gas Magnums on.
So long as you stay away from the basic cheap shocks from Gabriel and Monroe, you should be fine. Mid level and up for those brands will do fine for most, the more expensive ones (KYB, Bilstein etc) also have different level shocks, but even their starter ones are decent.
As for the plow, you will need better springs to help with the ride. Shocks will wear out quicker with a plow (and many shocks warranty do not cover plow use).
I have the Monroe Gas Magnum in the front and Gabriel Ultra's on the rear. Noticed no difference in the rear between the 180,000 mile OEM and the Gabriel, but was not expecting to, was not having a problem to start off with.
I did notice a smoother ride when I put the Gas Magnums on.
So long as you stay away from the basic cheap shocks from Gabriel and Monroe, you should be fine. Mid level and up for those brands will do fine for most, the more expensive ones (KYB, Bilstein etc) also have different level shocks, but even their starter ones are decent.
As for the plow, you will need better springs to help with the ride. Shocks will wear out quicker with a plow (and many shocks warranty do not cover plow use).
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boaterdude83
1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
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Dec 23, 2010 02:11 PM
