F-350 Single wheel 6.0 diesel SuperCab, 2005 with towing package. Empty now, and jounces a bit and some steering shimmy. Before I load my Lance I think I need new shocks, as these are likely original from 2005. I already have the extra leaf springs and anti-sway bar, so I don't plan to put on any air bags. What shocks do you recommend, front and rear? Don't go crazy, but help me get a more stable ride when empty, so I can feel that when loaded, it will also be a steady, firm ride. Thanks equipment.
2005 4x4 Ford F-350 Super Cab Lariat SRW, 6.0 Powerstroke diesel with 1995 Lance Model 880.
I have Rancho 9000's that a lot of people recommend on my off-road truck and was never impressed. There is no way I'd put them on anything else I own.
That being said when I was looking for shocks for the truck/camper I found a lot of recommendations for Bilsteins and honestly I dont think I see much of a difference over stock. I will say I didnt think it rode bad stock, so who knows!
Bilstein 4600s made a HUGE difference in my ride over the junk OEM shocks. I've tried both Rancho 9000s and Bilsteins and based upon my experience with two different trucks I prefer the Bilsteins. A great shock.
2011 Wolf Creek 850N/Polar Cub/240w Solar/2-6v Lifeline AGMs/Morningstar Sunsaver w/RM-1 & SureSine-300 Inverter 2011 Ford F-250/6.2L/3.73/Bilsteins/Air Bags/Torklift TD w/Fastguns 2004 Jeep Wrangler/4.0L/5-spd US Navy Ret.
Mello Mike wrote: Bilstein 4600s made a HUGE difference in my ride over the junk OEM shocks. I've tried both Rancho 9000s and Bilsteins and based upon my experience with two different trucks I prefer the Bilsteins. A great shock.
X2
Lynnsr
K0LFM Call Sign Northern Lite 8-11 Q Classic SE
Pro-Craft 180 Bass boat 2003 GMC Sierra 2500, Torklifts & Fastguns, Ride-Rites w/dual Control, Helwig rear sway bar,QD Stable Loads, "E" rated 16" 10 ply Michelins, Heavy Duty Pads & Rotors
I suggest Rancho 9000s. Adjust the rears to 9 when loaded and 1 empty, and front 6 loaded and 3 empty. At least, those are good starting points. I like that I can make them super stiff with camper on.
I'd also add extended bump stops. Also, max the tire pressure on front and rear at 80. I'd also add a double steering stabilizer.
'06 F350 Lariat Supercab SRW, 6.0 PSD 4x4 Long Bed, Intake Elbow, Walker Big Truck Muffler. '06 Host Rainer 950 Double Slide, Fastguns. Firestone Air Bags, Rancho 9000s, Vision 19.5s with Hankook DH-01 245s, Energy Suspension bump stops.
Please help me understand....I'm already having our steering stabilizer replaced, as it's leaking. How would I get a double one installed? Then you mention longer bumper stops. I have them already, just above the extra leaf spring, ready to press down on it when loaded. About 2-3 inches long, I estimate. And the Rancho 9000 -- how are they adjusted? Is it something that can be done when loaded, and does it require any tools? Sorry for the novice questions, but new to all this heavy truck stuff. Dave
dgcarlson wrote: And the Rancho 9000 -- how are they adjusted? Is it something that can be done when loaded, and does it require any tools? Sorry for the novice questions, but new to all this heavy truck stuff. Dave
Rancho 9000s are adjusted manually on each shock by turning a knob OR you can buy an expensive remote controller that allows you to adjust the shock dampening within the comfort of your truck.
I just replaced my factory shocks with KYB Monomax. Haven't taken a test drive yet but they were significantly stiffer that the wimpy stock shocks. I would've gone with adjustable Ranchos but I put far more miles on this truck loaded than unloaded and I'm not that concerned about unloaded ride quality.