it runs great but rides like a boat and i think they are original shocks. what would you people recommend for replacements or maybe air shocks?

 

Rancho 5000X $50-$62 a shock depending on where you get them.

 

If you made it this far on the originals, I’d say get the same brand if they still make them.

 

On my 2002 F150 I ran Monroe Reflex. Much better ride than stock and they lasted about 10 years. Most people ignore shocks and just assume that's the way the truck is supposed to ride.

 

Definitely Bilstein 4600. For sure on the pricier side but a fantastic shock and no doubt will last a while.

 

I second the Bilstein,I've had mine for three years with great results.

 

Third on the Bilsteins, 4600 series for a stock height truck. I'm at 70k miles or so on mine, the rears are about done now but they have been very good under anything I've thrown at them. Plenty of off road use, frequently hauling at the trucks limit. The set before these were some cheap Monroe's, lasted about 3 months until leaking out the oil and doing nothing on washboard. I'll also say I would recommend against the Rancho 5000's, from what I've seen they do not hold up. Fine when new, but disappointing durability. My good friend has a set, and they made a world of difference on his stock F150 initially but after about 20k miles it's like they do zilch to control the axle on washboard, the tires comically bounce up and down. Their 7000's are a different story, they seem to be good. Last time I checked though, they didn't have that fit a stock OBS F150.

 

If you want the best get Bilstein, and if you are on a budget get Monroe Gas Magnum. I've had different versions of Rancho in the past and never liked any of them. KYB also makes some good budget friendly shocks.

 

i will try the gas magnums. what about air shocks?

 

I just put monro-matics on all four corners and I'm happy.

 

Those should be pretty close to original.

Air shocks are junk.

 

You can order the OEM Motorcraft shocks on Rock Auto.

 

I just did the rear shocks on my truck and installed some KYB gas-a-just shocks. I did the front end 6 months ago with the same and it has a nice firm ride to it now. Doesn't feel like a wallowing pig.

Pulled some carquest "sport bruisers" off it that were just flat shot, very little damping left. When I did the front it was because one of the shocks was broke and the other was just slap wore out.

 

I have used the KYB's on my last few trucks and they have worked well.

 

The KYB gas-a-just are supposed to be a step above OEM grade and performance. I was impressed with the ones on the front and got a set for the back. Rides like a truck should. Not harsh but firm.