Pep Boys Gabriel VST

[rkj082000]

My 97 explorer is going in on Friday for 4 new Gabriel Pro-Ryder shocks. Pep Boys is doing the install. Are there any pitfalls I need to watch out for, i.e., is there something common that can go wrong with the installation. I just want to be prepared in case there is a problem. Was going to do myself, but for 48.00, I decided to let them do the work. I do plan on spraying all bolts w/ liquid wrench tonight to help them out. Thanks in advance.

 

[jimbo74]

nah.... shocks are pretty straightforward... unless you got some really crummy workers......

 

[Ross-N-Chicago]

I hope yours last longer than mine did. They were just about useless after 25K miles. Chicago roads wore em out. I don't think they are anything special other than inexpensive. Too bad you didn't upgrade to something better--Monroe Reflex, Rancho or Edelbrock.

In another way, I wouldn't buy them again.

 

[rkj082000]

From what I have read here, the Gabriels are supposed to be good shocks. The edelbrocks have gotten mixed reviews, and they cost 4x more than the gabriels. Considered Bilsteins as well, but heard they were more of an off road shock and ride really stiff on the road. Can anyone else chime in with their experience with the Gabriel Pro-Ryders. I have not had the work done, so I still have time to change. Thanks in advance...

 

[JDraper]

I have a set on my X, and they have about 20k miles of on and off road use on them. I've had no problems with them whatsoever, and they were definitely worth the $20 each I paid (with a lifetime warranty). Big improvement over stock. I replaced the stock shocks at about 4k miles because they were too mushy. A set of Bilsteins would be better, but it's a huge price difference.

 

[Lifted95X]

Originally posted by JDraper
I have a set on my X, and they have about 20k miles of on and off road use on them. I've had no problems with them whatsoever, and they were definitely worth the $20 each I paid (with a lifetime warranty). Big improvement over stock. I replaced the stock shocks at about 4k miles because they were too mushy. A set of Bilsteins would be better, but it's a huge price difference.

I have to second what Jeff says here, no problems with mine either.

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

Is the ride firmer than stock shocks?? I'm thinking of replacing them too and I don't want it to be bumpy and stuff.

 

[Lifted95X]

They are firmer than stock.

 

[Hokie]

Also, did y'all use shock extensions with the Gabriels - Or do that custom extension that GJarret has talked about? If no extensions, how do they handle the 2" TT/shackle lift? Any wheel hop/lifting? thanks

 

[Hokie]

Oh, and SSIKORA.. Wings nothing.. my cousin just got drafted by Nashville... Ice Hockey and Tennessee... interesting

 

[Lifted95X]

Wings Nothing?!? I am happy fo your cousin, congratulations, but Nashville?!? Are you actually proud of that team? Please tell me you are kidding.

 

[Hokie]

Hey SSIKORA ever heard "When it all goes South" by Alabama?
"It don't matter what state you're in.. someday the South is gonna rise again" ... maybe this is the start

(But my loyalty is definately StL ~ where cuz and family are from)

 

[Lifted95X]

Stl...much better of a choice.

 

[Rhett]

Ugh. Detroit removed the Blues 3 straight years in the playoffs...I still haven't forgiven the wings for that...

I see your tagline all the time and it gets me. hehhe

And that BS game-winning goal by Yzerman in the '96 or '97 playoffs...Fuhr was screened by about 7 or 8 guys and still the puck went in. Ack!! But I have to give the Red Wings credit, they are consistently good year in and year out, and offer the only competition to the Blues within our division. At least they are a skilled team unlike the Sharks.

 

[Lifted95X]

Yea...it will be a tough year for us this year though...with the injuries, and Cujo letting in almost 3 goals per game, it will be hard in the playoffs.

 

[Hokie]

As fun as hockey is and all.... Does anyone have answers to the questions I asked before?

"Also, did y'all use shock extensions with the Gabriels - Or do that custom extension that GJarret has talked about? If no extensions, how do they handle the 2" TT/shackle lift? Any wheel hop/lifting? thanks"

 

[Lifted95X]

No extensions, and I have no problem.

 

[JDraper]

No extensions were not a problem for me either.