no bilstein shocks for '02 xlt's?

[Jdog69]

so my tire dealer notices cuping in my new tires... blames it on worn out stock shocks (have 75k miles on it)

I'm beginning to drive more 4x4 trails while looking for good fishing holes and wouldn't mind some better shocks. This forum rates the bilstein shocks very high. Also heard great stuff about bilstein shocks/struts but their website doesnt show product available for '02 xlt (only the sport track)

anyone have them on their 02-05 explorers?

 

[Jdog69]

update.. just found out bilstein doesnt make them for anything newer than 01'
grrrr

 

[Squirrelmaster]

Yeah, these trucks use a coil-over design (many refer to them as "struts", but technically they are not struts) that, sadly, appears to have failed to generate enough demand for most after-market companies to want to produce products for.

I am certainly with you in wishing that Bilstein made them for the 3rd Gens, as I love the Bilsteins on my Sport Trac.

Tom

 

[thepotroast]

There are plenty of other good strut options out there for these trucks. Rancho and Monroe just to name a couple....each making various series applications, some adjustable for towing and offroad uses.

 

[Jdog69]

ok so Rancho and Monroe are good brands for weekend warriors like me? Any others made for our trucks?
Are they just drop in? Are some easier to install than others? or do I need spring compressors and all that crap?

thanks in advance for your replies

 

[celly]

Rancho and Monroe are good brands for weekend warriors like me?

FWIW, Rancho and Monroe are like Ford and Mercury. Different options for different tastes and made by the same company. Lots of people like their offerings on this site for different applications.

I've got Bilstein on my '99.

 

[Squirrelmaster]

ok so Rancho and Monroe are good brands for weekend warriors like me? Any others made for our trucks?
Are they just drop in? Are some easier to install than others? or do I need spring compressors and all that crap?

thanks in advance for your replies

If you replace just the shock, then yes, you will need a spring compressor. If you go with the Monroe Quikstrut (which may not be a bad idea as 2002's are a bit notorious for broken rear springs), then no, you should not need the spring compressor.

Take a look at these threads:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=212283

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=273688

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=281465&highlight=strut

Good luck.

Tom

 

[nygbrad]

Has anyone tried these? They seem pretty cheap but I've seen KYBs and Monroes got out in 6 months.

http://www.primechoiceautoparts.com..._campaign=Struts - Front Struts - Rear Struts