2010 Explorer smoother shocks or ride?

[nolimits]

Ok did searches, and no I don't want a caddie Am looking to improve ride quality though.

Had:
2006 XLT V6 bought new, sold few years ago, liked ride and fit.

Just got 2010 EB V8 12K mi.

Not an apples comparison I know, XLT, EB, V6/V8.

The ride on the 2010 is firmer, too much for me, age maybe arrg. Anyway I just spoke with dealer who does show a change in shocks since 2006. Hard to tell what this meant, PNs get superseded, sources change over years etc, who knows if valving and rates are close. The 2010 does handle semi taught for an SUV, maybe since the mid 2000 public roll over attention to SUVs Ford may have tightened/firmed suspension. The 2006 did have RSC though.

The 2010 rides firmer due to shocks potentially and also the 18" wheels with lower profile tires.

Anyone know more or have a good shock solution? I want to keep it safe and not overly mushy but do need to soften it.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Davidm53]

I have the Monroe Quick struts on my 06 V6 EB. Not like a Cadillac but a good improvement on the ride.
90,000 miles and the original shocks were pretty harsh. The Quickstruts are the whole spring shock assembly.
Might do the sway bar links and bushings next.

 

[Flag Gibby]

Pretty sure that what is making the ride too firm for you has everything to do with the 18" rim low profile tire combo. It is amazing how just stiffening up the sidewall of a tire some can change the ride quality/handling of a vehicle. As far as a new strut the guys over in the modified section really like the Rancho RS5000's.

 

[nolimits]

shorter wheels ideas

Ok so if I go shorter wheels and taller tires I can't seem to find an alloy 16" or 17", mostly steels, older styles. OEM I have 18x7.5. Would like to find used alloys not painted or chrome clad. 16x 7.5 maybe?

Anyone know what options work. Mines a 2010 EB V8. I want to end up with similar outside diameter.

Maybe I need to consider non OEM brands? What do you like?

 

[Flag Gibby]

The OEM Mountaineer 17" should be a direct fit and the 245/65 OEM size on it should give you the softer ride that you are after.

 

[nolimits]

The OEM Mountaineer 17" should be a direct fit and the 245/65 OEM size on it should give you the softer ride that you are after.

I'll check them out, thanks

 

[Destyn2001]

You can also add a fatter tire to the factory 18"s. There is plenty of clearance as in 2010 a factory 20" rim was optional. The fatter tire may give you the cusion you want without having to buy new tires AND rims. I would check with your local tire ship and see what they have to say about it.