My '97 XLT 4WD is ready for some new shocks. Anyone care to offer opinions as to the level of difficulty in replacing them? I'm reasonably competent with routine maintenance tasks -- is this the type of job I can do on a Saturday morning, or should I just let Sears do it? Do I need any special tools?
Also, recommendations for after market shocks? I only use it on-road, but do use it to haul some light loads (home repair stuff, etc.) as well as pull a small utility trailer with it.
Thanks!
You can do it yourself in about an hour or less. I used Bilsteins on my 96 Explorer. They added much more control (less up and down motion and less sway) with only a very small amount of increased ride harshness. Bilsteins are expensive compared to others, I think I paid $49 each, but I think they are worth it. After 65k miles, they still seem to be as good as new, whereas the stock shocks were worn out at 20k.
I thought the Bilstiens were twice that much. I used Monroe Reflex and they are excellent. About $45 each.
I paid $49 each in 98. Haven't priced them recently, but if they are in fact close to $100 each, I might or might not get them. That sure is a lot of money!!!
Yes, I priced shocks for a '97 XLT V8 last year and the Bilsteins were around 100 a pop. I bought the Monroe reflexes and they work quite nicely.
-Fred W
performanceproducts.com has them for $65. Autozone should be able to special order them for the same price. That said, you are probably better off with the Reflexes - the Bilsteins are very firm (but not harsh).
-Jonathan snipped-for-privacy@sonic.net
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required