Shock Questions

[cherrington]

Considering the explorer will be used for almost completely road driving. (occasional camping, but thats not exactly off roading)

I read there are different level of stiffness... and figured softer would be better for a more luxurious road ride. So... what are the brands/types I'm looking for? I don't need anything adjustable.

I looked at the shocks on it now, and they look like they've never been replaced (very rusted/corroded/mangled) it rides like a tank right now. (you can feel every little crack in the road) I'm not sure if they are stock like that, or if its a clear indication that the shocks are toast.

I looked on rockauto.com and they appear to have like.. 8 different types, some electronic, some not. Some with springs, some without... how do i know what i need?

 

[gtyates]

I have Monro Reflexes on my '96. Great shock of these vehicels and for the type of driving you say you do. I, too, a basically have no real off-road driving.

 

[ford99_1979]

I have the Edelbrock IAS shocks from Explorer Express on my 1996. Pretty sure you could source them from any retailer that sells Edelbrock. They give you the best of both worlds, smooth ride and good handling. I've ran bilsteins and rancho's on my last two rangers and I prefer the Edelbrock shocks over them.

Read about the shocks here

 

[cherrington]

Thanks guys.

I'm under the understanding this car does NOT have electronic leveling of the suspension, so any standard shock will work?

And for sake of not spending lots of money, it looks like rockauto has those monroe reflexes for like $37 each. woot!

 

[gtyates]

If its not a "limited" model then you have a regular suspension system.

 

[cherrington]

I'm pretty sure its an XLT. the shocks certainly looked normal...

 

[gtyates]

If it is a "limited" you will have "air bags" at all four corners as part of the suspension system. Also, you would have exterior badging that says "limited" and the seats have "limited" stiched into them near the head rest.

 

[cherrington]

In that case.... its definitely NOT limited. Thanks for the clarification.