Need new shocks all around - should I replace anything else?

[deeman]

I plan to install new front / rear shocks on my 2008 XLT 2WD. It has 120k on the odometer and I don't think the PO did any suspension upgrades as part of normal maintenance.
I'm not looking to do a lift at this point, but perhaps a leveler lift soon.

Two questions:

1. I may have some heavy-ish gear in the bed of the truck - nothing crazy maybe 500-600lbs. What front and rear shock do you recommend? I've like Bilstien's in the past. KYB's?
2. Are there other items I should plan to replace while I am in there? There does not seem to be any issues with the suspension.


Thanks!

 

[Uncle Gump]

I like KYB's... but I had one Mono Max fail. We will see...

If you just bought it... I would take a solid look at all of it. Steering... brakes... and suspension.

 

[cmequestionu]

A vehicle's springs hold the weight of the vehicle. The shocks/struts control the movement of those springs. 5-600 lb doesn't sound like a lot if you had a full size truck. That's almost half of the Ranger's capacity. I would look into helper springs to correct ride height.

As far as what to replace a good rule of thumb is to grab any suspension/steering components you can and give them a good shake. If they're loose, replace them. Before you take the wheel off, after you get it in the air, grab the wheel at multiple/opposite ends and try to rock it. If you hear/feel anything move replace that. Look for grease/rips/tears around boots. Replace if necessary.

 

[Dirtman]

I almost always find that my sway bar links and bushings need to be replaced about the same time my shocks do, but a visual and shakey test will tell you all you need to know about what's ready for replacement and whats not. There is no standard replacement interval for steering and suspension parts, you just check them and replace as needed.