[Spooner]

I've got an 01 Ranger 4x4 that's nearing 100k. I think it's definitely time for some shocks. I'm wondering if anyone has any suggestions.

My local guy who does my tires, alignments, etc. swears by Monroe. I see several options from that company that are relatively inexpensive. I would like a relatively smooth ride--for a truck of course--and not really something that is going to knock my kidneys out. For that reason, KYB and Bilstein seem like they're not good ideas.

Any suggestions?

While at it, how about front brake pads? (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

On edit, didn't post in towing, because I don't consider this a tow vehicle. It's more of an around town/winter vehicle.

-John

This post has been edited by Spooner: Apr 24 2006, 03:21 PM

[Jon A]

I'm very happy with the HD Bilsteins I put on the Trailblazer--and it comes with Bilsteins stock. I talked with Bilstein beforehand to verify valving differences, etc, and they're a completely different animal. Here's a shot of a stock rear Bilstein vs the HD:

(IMG:http://www.jonaadland.com/Trailblazer/Rearshockcompare.JPG)

Moral of the story: Even when GM uses Bilsteins as OEM, they use crappy ones. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[Sam Strano]

Moral of the story: Even when GM uses Bilsteins as OEM, they use crappy ones. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

Actually the moral of the story is: Even when GM uses Bilstein's as OEM, GM specs the valving and screws it up.

[LT4Firehawk]

Moral of the story: Even when GM uses Bilsteins as OEM, they use crappy ones. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

Actually the moral of the story is: Even when GM uses Bilstein's as OEM, GM specs the valving and screws it up.

Too true. Just like the valving on the C5 Z06s. The 01s had some real problems with the rear shock valving, they improved it in 02, and then finally got it straightened out with new valving front and rear in 04. So if it takes them 3 years to finally get the valving right on their top of the line sports car, imagine how little attention they pay to something like a truck (since people expect it to ride like a truck).