new shocks?
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2004
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new shocks?
I would like to install new shocks on my 97 Explorer with 80k miles (original shocks). The boat like swaying over bumps has served me well, but i must move on. I have searched around, and have read Gabriels are pretty good for the money, any suggestions? Also, any tips on Installation for a first timer. I have a Ford service manual on CD, and it appears to be rather easy. However the rears seem to have a more complex procedure. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Joe
Thanks,
Joe
New User
Joined: Jul 2004
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Stay away from the Gabriels! I have a 94 explorer and replaced my OEM shocks with them think the same as you. Man, I had a better ride with the worn old shocks. I broke down and got the Monroe Sensa-Tracks. Big difference!
It is actually a very easy job, I don't know how diffrent your 97 is though. Just becareful on the fronts. I had a heck of a time with mine. I ended up snaping the stud on the passenger front shock. I had to weld a new stud on.
The back shocks are easier than the fronts. Just make sure you are pretty close to lined up when you cut the hold back strap on the rear shock, it moves quickly
It is actually a very easy job, I don't know how diffrent your 97 is though. Just becareful on the fronts. I had a heck of a time with mine. I ended up snaping the stud on the passenger front shock. I had to weld a new stud on.
The back shocks are easier than the fronts. Just make sure you are pretty close to lined up when you cut the hold back strap on the rear shock, it moves quickly
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Jacksonville, NC
I also used monroe sensa-tracks. It rode much better with them. I changed them myself too for the first time. It was pretty easy. For the rear it help a little if you remove your spare tire you can get the upper bolts a little easier and have more room without the spare tire there.
New User
Joined: Apr 2004
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I put on a new set Bridgestone AT Revo tires and Monroe Sensa-Tracks shocks and it made a big improvement in the ride and handling of my 98 Explorer. I did it myself in the driveway and it was not difficult. I agree that dropping the spare tire makes installing the rears much easier.
Cross-Country
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 75
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From: Ontario
I am planning to replace all my shocks in my 97 (probably original).
I do need to beef up the rear end though, as I pull a fairly large travel trailer, and it tends to drop the back end down quite a bit. I do have a good load leveler with anti-sway bars.
Any suggestions???
I do need to beef up the rear end though, as I pull a fairly large travel trailer, and it tends to drop the back end down quite a bit. I do have a good load leveler with anti-sway bars.
Any suggestions???
Senior User
Joined: Aug 2004
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anyone have any feedback on rancho shocks?? I want to put osme on I know they are firm and i'm ok with that i jsut would like those and have the same ride height when i put 20's on my wifes sport trac so that no bumps make them rub.
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Junior User
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Thanks for your suggestions. I will pick up a set of Monroe Shocks this weekend. Does anyone have a preference, the Reflex or Sensa-Tracks?
Thanks again,
Joe
Thanks again,
Joe
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Thread Starter
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Junior User
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Hi all,
Just wanted to update my post.
I installed Monroe Sensa-Trac shocks last month and the ride is unbelievably improved. I’m glad to say I experience little body roll in corners and that nasty clunk from the front end is gone. I shopped around and found Sears had the lowest price. I was able to install them myself for less than $140. I was quoted between $350-$410 for parts and labor installed for the very same product. Save yourself the money… installation is extremely simple, and you get the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
Thanks again for the replies,
Joe
Just wanted to update my post.
I installed Monroe Sensa-Trac shocks last month and the ride is unbelievably improved. I’m glad to say I experience little body roll in corners and that nasty clunk from the front end is gone. I shopped around and found Sears had the lowest price. I was able to install them myself for less than $140. I was quoted between $350-$410 for parts and labor installed for the very same product. Save yourself the money… installation is extremely simple, and you get the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
Thanks again for the replies,
Joe
Last edited by rollinXplorer; Jan 8, 2005 at 11:17 PM.