Shocks for the truck

[robert claus]

I had problems with a set of Bilstein struts I bought from S..warehouse. They simply did not work and had an internal rattle, from the time I put them on. I could not get any satisfaction from S..warehouse or Bilstein. They promised a return authorization which never arrived, and I had to dispute the purchase through my cc to get my money back.
I went to an alignment shop I know and respect - they confirmed that the Bilsteins were defective, and put on a set of HD Napa struts which I really like. When I had a Ford van, I went through a couple of sets of OEM shocks, but finally installed KYB shocks which felt great and lasted for years. So, I'd recommend Napa or KYB.

[pappy19]

I have Bilsteins on my F-250 and the wifer's Lincoln LT (a fancy F-150) and they have been great. Had them on for about 70k and 2 years. Still work fine. My '96 Bronco has a full set of Monroe shocks and they seem to do well also. I had Rancho's on my old 2002 F-350 and they lasted 150k with nothing but rust showing, but they still worked fine.

[Turtle]

SeeMore asks about ride characteristics and it is a 4X4. Does great towing. No complaints. I do get off the road frequently to drive soft beach sand for about a 1/2 mile to get to a surf spot. Basically, the truck seems stiff with driving unloaded, which is most of the time. Sounds like I just need to suck it up around town since the towing safety is more important. Thanks for the input. And the new shocks will have to wait because it looks like we're going to have to give the IRS more money than I thought. They must have found out we have an Airstream and think we are freaking millionaires... Jamie

[2proms]

I also installed Bilsteins on my 2005 GMC Yukon XL.

[SeeMore]

Turtle - when you do get around to the shocks later, you might want to research the Ranchos and dial them in softer as your off-road is not unduly rough terrain. You can get an improved on-road, non-towing ride over stock without sacrificing the towing stability. As mentioned by others, I believe KYB offers an adjustable for the 4x4 that is good. I just don't have experience with their product.