Shocks working properly?

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Dec 6, 2006 | 03:49 PM

gbroehl1

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From: Connecticut

Shocks working properly?

1979 F150 4x4 with front quad shocks.

I just replaced all 6 shocks in my truck with new Ranchos. The set aft of the front axle fit fine, but the set on the front of the front axle and the rear axle(which are the same model might I add) did not appear to install correctly. I had the vehicle with the wheels off and being suspended by the axles so it should have still been at ride height. When I installed them and fully extended them, I could not get the nut on top. They did reach through the top of the tower but not enough to catch the nut.

I ended up using a jack to compress the axle closer to the frame so I could tighten the nuts. Is it just me or is this not right? It seems to me that at normal ride height the shocks are currently fully extended thus not having any give for pot holes when hit. My feeling is that they should ride somewhere in the middle when sitting still. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

Rear axles RS5115
Aft of front axle RS5117
Front of front axle RS5115

Dec 7, 2006 | 06:47 AM

WarWagon

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Sounds like the shocks are too short for your application. There are shaft extentions available that you can screw on the shaft and give you anothe 3" or so.

Dec 7, 2006 | 07:19 AM

gbroehl1

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From: Connecticut

I just found the 3" extentions at Summit for $10. Am I compromising anything by adding these. It seems that is would lower the overall strength of the shocks by doing this. And they will certainly not add to the looks of the truck. Has anyone else used them?

I still fail to understand how the application chart at both Rancho and Summit would be wrong. I can't be the first person with a 78 - 79 F150 to use these shocks.

Dec 7, 2006 | 04:15 PM

WarWagon

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I have used the extension quite a few times with good results. The fact that the shocks don't fit in the first place has me puzzled.

Dec 7, 2006 | 07:12 PM

gbroehl1

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I call Rancho from work today and they confirmed that I do have the right shocks for my truck. They seem to think that I must have a lift, but I am 99% sure that there is no lift on my truck. I have to measure my old shocks and give them the specs and they will give me part numbers that should fit. My issue is going to be with Summit. I doubt they will take the shocks back as I have opened most of them at this point.

Dec 7, 2006 | 07:22 PM

WarWagon

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If the part number is correct, then just bite the bullet and use the extensions.

Dec 8, 2006 | 12:29 PM

rebocardo

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From: Atlanta GA

FWIW: On an older truck of which you do not know the history, in the future, measure first, then go to the their catalog and chose a shock that gives you six inches of travel in each direction from its static/at rest position. That way you do not have to use wack extensions.