Mini Shock Replacement

[Riggs]

I recently bought my 98 xlt used @ 60K miles. I've replaced the original factory shocks with Edelbrocks. While I was doing this I noticed the bizarre mini-shock on the differential housing. Obviously it's purpose is to reduce torque shimmies and keep the rear end under control. Is it necessary to replace this little guy at 60k? I'm a professional painter/photographer and the vehicle will be used for some unpaved/off-road driving in Utah/AZ (just to "chase the light" ... not extreme recreation). I only want a safe vehicle that's not going "freak out" in the wilderness.

 

[Jim F]

Replace if concerned

If you are concerned, replace it. I would go to Ford and price the OEM version. It should be an easy replace. Peace of mind is a wonderful thing, since this would be the first thing on your mind as soon as you hit the trail if the original is still on.

 

[Goober]

Not trying to contradict, but before replacing it, find out what it does and what its normal replacement interval is. I mean, no since in replacing it if it is good for 100k unless it's bad. And like most things, OEM will charge more for the part, see if you can get a similiar or better unit at a parts store for less.

 

[Stephen S]

I had the same question about mine when I found it. There's a couple of threads here about it. I learned that it is to help reduce some vibration that the 91-94 Explorers have at highway speeds. Ford put these mini shocks on the diff housing so the 95+ Explorers wouldn't experience the same vibration. I've got 105000 miles on mine with the original mini shock, and no problems with vibration on the highway, or "freaking out" off road. Ray Lobato has removed the one on his lifted 97 and he also reports no trouble. I wouldn't worry about replacing it. Go buy some film with that money and have some fun!!! Hope this helps.

 

[GJarrett]

Stephen is correct in the reason for the minishock, but the IFS pretty much fixed the "65mph shakes" problem irrespective of additional help from the extra shock. Ray Lobato did remove his and later on a lot of us followed suit (the minishock limits articulation on the trail). I don't think any one of us could ever tell any difference whatsoever with it on or removed. I know I couldn't.

You can do whatever you want to do with it. I simply threw mine away.

 

[Riggs]

Thanks! I think I will spend the money on film and leave the baby shock right where it is. My vehicle is fine on the highway. Ford dealer didn't know what a normal replacement interval was for it anyway.

Any ideas for a slightly sagging left rear. I'm thinking it's gotta be the spring.

 

[GJarrett]

To follow Gimp's answer, I cover it in my article. Click on "Gerald's Truck" in my signature line and scroll down to my second post. One of the first things I dealt with was that left-hand butt sag.