I have a 1996 4WD Ford Ranger and i need to purchase some new shocks for the truck. I would like to have something that works nicely for most 4WD roads in the state (not the nasty stuff Darren is doing) but the average 4WD roads out there. I am currently looking at the Rancho RS9000X adjustable shocks or a set of Bilsteins. Can anyone give me some input on these 2 choices? How hard is it to access the adjusters on the Ranchos? Any adivce is appreciated.
You're probably aware of it, but check www.therangerstation.com for shock recommendations. If you're thinking of purchasing online, check www.jackit.com for prices.
I'm running SkyJacker Nitro 8000s on my 96 Ranger. They may not be quite as good as Ranchos or Bilsteins, but they're not bad and only cost half as much.
It's been a while since I've looked at truck shocks, but you can set up the Rancho 9000s with a control in the cab of the truck, so you don't even have to get under the truck to adjust them. You just do it on the fly. Of course, you'll pay for this convenience.
For a Ranger, standard Rancho 5000s should work. I think that the 9000s are for heavier vehicles but are still an option. I had 5000s on my 91 pathfinder and they worked well. I think that they run about 50 bucks a shock.
I'm a moderator of a jeep forum so I see quite a few posts about shocks for medium to light trucks. I personally use Rancho RS5000 shocks in my jeep. The ride is very nice and they're pretty cheap.
However two shocks which are liked the most often are Old Man Emu and Bilstein (5100 or 5150).
I have adjustable struts on my car (KYB AGX) and can say that you probably wont adjust them often or ever. I think buying shocks that are appropriate to your application the first time would be cheaper and will work fine in the long run.
I had Bilsteins on my truck previously and am now running Old Man Emus. I loved the Bilsteins and am only somewhat satisfied with the OME's. I'll never purchase another product from OME (owned by ARB) because the service I have received (i.e. NONE) from them has been terrible.
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6 repliesThanks
RichieV
I'm running SkyJacker Nitro 8000s on my 96 Ranger. They may not be quite as good as Ranchos or Bilsteins, but they're not bad and only cost half as much.
2000 Ford F-350 dually hauling a 35 ft 16.000# fiver on bumpy forest service roads.
However two shocks which are liked the most often are Old Man Emu and Bilstein (5100 or 5150).
I have adjustable struts on my car (KYB AGX) and can say that you probably wont adjust them often or ever. I think buying shocks that are appropriate to your application the first time would be cheaper and will work fine in the long run.