What's the best option for a tired suspension?

[Precision]

I have a 2000 5.0 with 124k on it and the suspension feels like crap, it's tired. What is my best option for replacement?

Best option if I lifted? (I only want 1-2inches or so)?

Best option for stock height with new 30-31 inch tires?

 

[Produce Man]

Just made the popcorn, so here goes. Search is your best friend. http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=196965 .Try this for your front end.
As for the rear, You'll hear new leaf pack, Ad-A-Leaf, Warrior shackles, Monroe Load levelers, whatever shock you want or any/all of those combinations for 2".
My plan for My '99 Eddie is to go with the Monroes on the rear, Rancho 9000's up front (for their adjustability) and a TT to bring her level to what the rear ends up being. I have the rear air ride now which the air part works fine, just the dampening has gone away(pogo stick effect).
I don't go hard core offroading anymore(sold the '94 Bronco) so I just want the Ex to feel more like a truck instead of a mushburger. I'll be running 245/75/16 tires.

 

[SoNic67]

My experience:
I have a pair of almost new Monroe Sensatrac in my shed. They lasted 2 weeks on my rear, they are that bad.

 

[Precision]

What about for stock height?

 

[koda2000]

i can't speak for any lift related components, but it depends on what's worn out. shocks make a huge difference (all 5 of them). i'm happy with the KYB Gas Adjusts i have on my '01 EB, but i don't off-road (maybe Rancho if you do). if they haven't been replaced yet, upper/lower ball joints with bushings/arms if they're worn. i like Moog. sway bar end lings and bushings. Moog's end links are okay, but replace the bushings with Energy Suspension. inner/outer tie rod ends if you need them (Moog). if your rear springs are sagging, you can replace them or install Monroe Load Lever's (w/helper springs) in the rear. your tires can also have a big effect on ride. i have Michelin's on all my trucks. they're a little stiff in the sidewall, but still give a comfortable ride and wear like iron. RockAuto is a good source for replacement parts and the forum get's a 5% discount

 

[Precision]

i can't speak for any lift related components, but it depends on what's worn out. shocks make a huge difference (all 5 of them). i'm happy with the KYB Gas Adjusts i have on my '01 EB, but i don't off-road (maybe Rancho if you do). if they haven't been replaced yet, upper/lower ball joints with bushings/arms if they're worn. i like Moog. sway bar end lings and bushings. Moog's end links are okay, but replace the bushings with Energy Suspension. inner/outer tie rod ends if you need them (Moog). if your rear springs are sagging, you can replace them or install Monroe Load Lever's (w/helper springs) in the rear. your tires can also have a big effect on ride. i have Michelin's on all my trucks. they're a little stiff in the sidewall, but still give a comfortable ride and wear like iron. RockAuto is a good source for replacement parts and the forum get's a 5% discount

The rear is sagging for sure. I figured I'd start with shocks. I definitely get that clunky sound over bumps and if I pull into a parking lot that is at a different elevation the explorer rocks, it's irritating.

So to start? 4 shocks + 1 set of new leafs for the rear? I thought about billstein shocks.

 

[koda2000]

The rear is sagging for sure. I figured I'd start with shocks. I definitely get that clunky sound over bumps and if I pull into a parking lot that is at a different elevation the explorer rocks, it's irritating.

So to start? 4 shocks + 1 set of new leafs for the rear? I thought about billstein shocks.

there are as many opinions on shock brand as there are shocks. maybe someone will respond with their experience with Billstein's. as far as replacing the rear leafs, that's what i'd do, but many here have had success with the Monroe Load Lever's. one poster even re-arched his own springs, but i had my doubts about the longevity of that repair and he never reported back. oh, and there are 5 shocks on the 4-doors. i recommend you also replace the 5th shock (aka the rear axle stabilizer).

 

[Precision]

Hopefully it will feel like new again once my shocks are replaced and hopefully there won't be too much hassle for install. I know a guy so maybe that will help

 

[koda2000]

Hopefully it will feel like new again once my shocks are replaced and hopefully there won't be too much hassle for install. I know a guy so maybe that will help

barring rust, they are simple enough to change. keep in mind this is a full frame, rear leaf spring truck. if you're expecting a plush ride you'll be disappointed.

 

[Precision]

barring rust, they are simple enough to change. keep in mind this is a full frame, rear leaf spring truck. if you're expecting a plush ride you'll be disappointed.

I don't need plush I just need stability and planted handling

 

[SoNic67]

Then go for KYB Gas-A-Just. They are monotubes, same technology as Bilsteins, but at a decent price.
Rear axle stabilizer (5th shock) made a difference to my truck too - that's a different construction though, because is installed horizontally.