Total noob seeking info on suspension replacement

[BoogieBot]

Hey ya'll,

I picked up a nice little 2000 Ranger 2.5L manual, 2WD a few weeks ago. It's the first 4-wheeled vehicle I've owned in a few years (been 2-wheel only for the duration) that desperately needs the front shocks replaced.

I did the rear suspension on my bike, and it was easy: order the shock and spring, ask the vendor to put the spring on (no spring compressor at home), and bolt the 2 new rear shocks on when I got em. Easy peasey.

But I'm a bit confused by some of the terminology used in truck/auto suspension and don't know what to buy. I want an easy bolt-on solution. Do I need to buy separate shocks and springs and find someone with a spring compressor? What about complete strut assemblies like Monroe QuickStrut or StrutTek? I've read the "Choosing the Right Shocks" section of the Technical Guide (http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Pick_The_Right_Shocks.htm), but I'm still confused as to what parts I should be buying.

Many thanks for info. Or a chiding to search better (I did, and was still confused).

 

[MetalDeerSolid]

The springs most likely do not need to be replaced. Shocks should be just a simple bolt-in job.

The Monroe QuickStrut assemblies are MacPherson struts, which the ranger does not use. There's just a coil spring next to the shock.