Well, I finally broke down and put some new shocks on the beast. I am about to make a long trek out to San Antonio with my 30' TT (1600 miles) so I wanted some quality shocks. I decided to go with the Rancho 9000X In-Cab system. The shock install was fairly straight forward. Now I have to find a good place to mount the controller.
I can't believe the difference a set of shocks makes. Granted not a sports car feel but I can definately feel the difference at highway speeds and my shocks aren't making that annoying sucking sound when I jump on the tailgate.
All in all a very good system. Now I have to get some airbags and I am set. Yeah right

 

Mike,
I also did the 9000x but did not go with the incab setup.
It does make a huge difference when pulling.
I have a 8k lb toyhauler that worked the back pretty good even with a 1200lb weight dist. hitch.
I noticed that it pulls alot better with the 9000x than before - I have the shocks set at 7 in front and 8 in the rear.
It feels alot more stable when you have a side wind pushing on you.

it was worth every penny.

Scott
'02 4x4 CC 7.3 SWB

 

Nice Thread. I have been thinking of rancho's my self and it is good to hear the change if trailering. I am assuming you are only using one shock per wheel, ie pair per axle. What does the in cab controller do?

 

It allows you to modify the stiffness of your ride from inside the truck.
The remote control has a gauge and compressor to adjust the shocks.

The 9000x I have, you have to get under the truck to adjust the settings.

Scott
'02 4x4 CC 7.3

 

Yep I am only using the single shock per wheel setup.

Toyhaulr is right on the money. The in-cab controller always me to adjust front and rear to whatever stiffness the job at hand requires. For example, if I am towing something then I want the rears stiffer than the fronts. This allows for more stability when under load. However, if I am empty and screaming down the toll road (most of the time) then I need the fronts stiffer than the rear again for stability where most of the weight is.

 

I went with the bilsteins on my truck and an AirLift airbag system with load controller. It is nice to be able to adjust from in cab what you want the ride to feel like and when I have the 5er hooked up to be able to just push the button and level the truck out. having the adjustable shocks and the airbags I'm sure you will love it. The other love in my life wouldn't go for me spending the dollars on the adjustable shocks AND airbags, guess they just don't understand.

 

Thanks all. I will check out the adds online and see what I may need. I do like the ability to alter the ride from in cab. My old shocks are about worn out and don't to wear out my tires. I do pull a toyhauler so the 9000's seem the way to go. Thanks for all your input.

 

Well, I looked at the Ranchos and at just over 500 with controller, I think I will have wait till after the holidays. Only expect to travel a little before then with my PSD anyway.