Time for new shocks, but need help

[Quick]

Hey guys.. been awhile since I posted.

Well I need new shocks. My Explorer bounces, sways, and all that fun stuff. My problem is that I'm not sure what I should get. I don't want to spend large amounts of money because I don't need anything "performance" wise, just a nice set of shocks. I don't know if I want to go with OEM, I'd like a little upgrade from that. Let me know what you guys recommend..

I'm looking for a smooth ride. It is just a daily driver and I'm sick of being jolted around when I go over tracks, hit bumps, etc.. (yes I know it's an SUV )

Also, is it worth my time to install them myself? It looks rather easy but I always say that.. what type of experiences do you have installing them yourself?

Thanks alot!

 

[Lifted95X]

Gabriel VST's. I think they work great personally. For $20 a pop, and a lifetime warrenty, they can't be beat.

 

[Alec]

ditto (glad Gerald and I have created such a following )

 

[JDraper]

Ditto on the Gabriel's. I've got about 10k on mine, including some hard offroading, and they are performing fine. I replaced a set of factory shocks with only 4k on them, and the difference was very noticeable.

 

[MrMatt]

For your application the Gabriels would probably be your best bet, pretty cheap and from what I hear a nice ride.

Desert Rat is running 4 Rancho RS5000s for $148 shipped right now, but thats probably more shock than ya need though.

I ordered the RS5000s and should get them late next week, going to try and install them myself since it seems pretty simple.

Good luck with whatever shock you choose

-Matt

 

[bigbadfred]

Yep I know all about swaying and jolting

My wife hates riding in my X because it sways from side to side when I go over curbs and jolts when I hit a bump or two and I am going with the Gabriels myself because I want a smooth ride and I am also going to replace front sway bar bushings to help smooth out the ride as well. I am actually getting sick of the jolting and swaying myself. I know it is a SUV but there are ways to smooth out the ride drastically and shocks is one of them. Mine is a daily driver as well.

 

[VBVA]

What shock would you recommend for me, I am new to Explorers (previous vehicle a Toyota Pickup). I spend most of my driving on city roads, but I do make it off-road 1-2 times a month, mostly on sand and mud. I have narrowed my choices down to Rancho 5000's or Gabriel ProRyder VSX(T). I know about the price, but I am just worried about the ride. I like my ride to be stiff and responsive, not soft lke a mattress. Thanks in advance.

 

[rpr]

I just installed the Gabriel VST's on my '97 XLT. I've noticed a significant improvement over the stock shocks. Nose dive during breaking, which was my major complaint with this vehicle, has almost been entirely eliminated. Side sway and body roll in turns has also been significantly improved (reduced).

The ride has firmed up a bit on slightly uneven roads (as expected, and this is not necessarily a bad thing), and overall it handles rough roads and speed bumps with "aplomb" (that's a good thing).

These have got to be the best bang for the buck when it comes to an upgrade for your Explorer. No complaints from me for my $80 total investment.

 

[bigbadfred]

RPR

Thanks for the info on the shocks and I am glad you like them because I am going to get some as well.