Monroe Sensatracs vs. Rancho 5000 | Ford Explorer Forums

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Monroe Sensatracs vs. Rancho 5000

cifer

Active Member
Joined
May 13, 2004
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City, State
San Jose, CA
Year, Model & Trim Level
2000 XLT
I currently have Rancho 5000's, and feel that they may be a little bit too stiff for me. All of my driving is on-road, but I plan to take my Ex on some REALLY light trails, so I need something that is perfect on-road, ok off. I was playing with the idea of getting some sensatracs. Anyone have experience with these two shocks? Is there a noticeable difference between the two? Will the softer shock sacrifice too much body roll - which I'm also trying to minimize?
Some have said that the Gabriels are good also. Are they comparable to the Monroes?
 



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Not sure about the Sensatracs, but I just put a round of Monroe Reflex on my '00 X Sport and I definitely prefer the ride over stock. I also got an EE sway bar installed the same day so my X feels like a whole new truck.

I heard nothing but good things about Sensatrac. I understand the ride is a bit softer than Reflex, but they're great shocks all around. Tenneco (maker of Monroe) also makes Rancho so I think you'll get quality no matter what you decide. I didn't find much in the way of bad things re: Monroe when I did my research a few weeks ago. I couldn't justify the added cost for the Rancho especially since they are designed for "off-road" and I rarely do anyone more hardcore than a backcountry gravel/rocky road anyhow. Occasionally I hit a logging or fireroad. The Reflex/Sensatracs should be more than adequate for that.
 






The Sensatracs are a lot more forgiving shock than the Rancho. They provide a lot better (smoother) ride but will sacrafice a little body roll. I pefer the Rancho, but I use mine off highway alot.
 






I have sensatrac on my truck right now and don't really like them. For the rear its not too bad but up front i would probably go Reflex and leave the sensatrac in the rear. Just my opinion.
 






Infragate, what don't you like about the senatrac's in the front? too soft/hard?

Thanks,
Tonedog
 






What about Reflex's? Are they as firm as Rancho 5000s?
 






I am a 90% on-road 10% off guy. I think that you will be happy with the Sensatrack's over your stock shocks, they are much better than old crusty stock shocks. The only thing that I have to complain about them is that the truck somewhat bobs forward and back on the highway, but it is very slight. The body roll is much improved over stock. Chances are you will like either shock Rancho/Monroe, but remember that my tires are 2" smaller and it may be a little different for me.

I am pretty sure Rancho 5000's are more stiff than Reflex.
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31" 's, Skackles/TT
 






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