I have a '93 F150 that needs some new shocks. It is equipped with heavier duty shocks and springs and I am looking to replace the OEM shocks with a performance type shock that is rated for heavier duty (for towing mainly). Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

I use Gabreil(sp?) gas ryder (heavy duty) shocks on my 88 F150. These are the first new shocks this truck has ever had, and so far I like them.

 

If money is not the issue, I would highly recommend the Rancho 9000s with the in cab front and rear adjuster. Cost with shocks, compressor, switches, gauges, and air hoses is about $400. These are very good shocks, but the best thing about them is the amount of difference in the compression and rebound between the #1 and #5 settings. It allows you to adjust anywhere from a nice cushy ride front and rear to soften up a bumpy road, or to firm up the front shocks for better handeling on winding mountain roads, or to firm up the rear when towing. They have held up well on my F250 supercab 4x4, through an entire season of Brutal Mud Bogg racing, day to day work duty, and towing my Jeep. They greatly improved the miserable rough ride notoriouse with 3/4 ton 4x4 suspensions, and they make a huge difference in steering control(especialy with 8" of lift and 36" tires) when adjusted propperly, they keep the front from wandering or diving (usualy a 3 setting in the rear and a 4 setting in the front for precise turning on mountain roads). With the settings at 2 in the rear and 2 1/2 or 3 in the front it smooths out even the messed up LA freeway system,and still retains good steering control. If you install them with care to follow the directions the lines hold air very well, I don't even check them for weeks at a time if no adjustments need to be made. The In-Cab adjuster kit is high quality and very complete including the compressor, and back lit gauges. The only draw back is the price, and the fact that Rancho is starting to take a hard line stance against warranty claims if there is even the slightest hint of off road induced dammage. Later,
Jeff

 

 

Hey I hope you get this reply due to the fact this was an older post you left back in 00. I just bought the RS9000X shocks for my 2000 F150 2wd XLT. I did not buy the In-Cab adjuster kit, compressor, and gauges. I was wondering if you installed the shocks yourself and if so were there any problems you encountered when installing them. Are they easy to install? I drive my truck mostly for commuting around the city of Orlando Florida and occasionally haul a load from Home Depot. I also pull a motorcycle trailer on occasion. I also take my truck to Daytona beach and park it on the sand. I was wondering if the above adjustments you provided would work for me? I'm assuming that number 1 would be the softest ride where 9 would be the hardest ride. Am I correct on this? Im new to this and your response would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joe

 

Big time difference! Best shocks I've ever owned. I've got these bad boys set on 5 all the way around and I love the way she rides. It's like I've falling in love with her all over again! I'd recommend the RS9000's. I feel a really bad habit forming here!