New Shocks for my box stock '96 XLT 4X4 4.0L

[jrfranz]

Hello All:

I have a box stock '96 XLT 4x4 with 99K on it. When I had the truck in for service last time (I know brakes are fairly simple, but they seem way too important to teach myself how to do a brake job on - sorry for the side bar) my mechanic noticed all of my shocks (still original) are leaking.

I am looking for a reccomendation on new shocks - I don't want to spend a fortune (I know people love their Edelbrocks but they seem really pricy). I am not a serious off roader - but the truck does make it off the pavement and I know shocks can really change the ride.

I have Michelin LTX M/S tires (so far they are great) with stock rims - what do you all reccomend for shocks?

Will I need to have an alignment done after replacing the shocks to prevent uneven wear on my brand spankin' new tires?

I also need to do a tune up - any favorites for plugs and wires? Are the platinum plugs worth the extra jing?

What are the biggest bang for the buck mods I can do to make the truck more offroad worthy without making major sacrifices in its highway driveability? Our land is about 3 1/2 hours away.

Thanks for the responses in advance-

 

[TarHeel085]

i LOVE my Bilsteins, and i have the same tires you do. and no you dont need an alignment after you get shocks.

 

[Kontrol-Trak]

Some people here have Gabriel VSTs and they are happy with those shocks. They are very affordable. I have Michelin LTX and Monroe Reflex. It's a great combo, I'm pretty happy with them.

 

[jrfranz]

How tough of a job is repalcing the shocks? - looks pretty easy (if the bolts are not completely seized). Any tips from anyone out there?

thanks again for the replys -

 

[KillerXLT]

I have 0ver 99K on my 95 Ex. I would love to add mods (a torsion shackle lift) to it but I haven't b/c I believe it will be a waste of money investing into a high milage ride. Don't get me wrong there is nothing wrong with it but who knows what could happen in the near future.
As for the plugs and wires. I have NGK plugs and Bosch wires.

 

[RTStork]

Originally posted by jrfranz
I also need to do a tune up - any favorites for plugs and wires? Are the platinum plugs worth the extra jing?

What are the biggest bang for the buck mods I can do to make the truck more offroad worthy without making major sacrifices in its highway driveability?

Thanks for the responses in advance-

For plugs, I recommend Motorcraft or bosch platinums. For wires, the stockers are pretty good, but MSD or Taylor are some good upgrades.

Some good bang for the buck mods would be a free flowing exhaust, an air induction kit, and a Diablo or Superchip. I'd also switch over tio synthetic fluids. All of these mods will free up some power and some gas mileage. I gained 2mpg with my cut air box, synthetic oil, and dual exhaust.

 

[Nonoy]

I recommend Bilstein. I had Monroe Sensatract and I regret having it so, I replaced it after a year. I drive 100 miles a day, 5 times a week, and I can tell the difference. Even my car pool noticed the comfort of the ride. I replaced it my self and took me 4 hours. You wiil need an extension for the two upper bolts at the rear. You have to take out the spare tire for easy access. The front... you need to pull out the fender cover for easy access for the upper bolt. Carefull not to tear the fender cover apart. If you do, which I did, just secure it again with plastic ties. I took the wheels out also and secure the X with a jack stand. I also suggest that you spray the rear lower bolts with liquid wrench. Oh yes, you will need another crocodile jack to push and align the shocks to the lower bolt holes unless if you are strong enough to push the shock upward in a lying position or if you have a lift.
Good luck.