The shock absorbers are one of the most overlooked components by the majority of the sport truck or SUV owners. It is essential to understand that the shock absorbers should not be just ‘good enough.’ They should be the best of all. It’s because when you lower your vehicle, most of the components used in the process may reduce the effectiveness of the shock absorbers. Eventually, the OEM shocks become useless and result in poor ride quality.
| Product No. | Shocks for Ford Ranger | Product Image | Product Reviews | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1) | Gabriel 43167 |  |  |  |
| 2) | Monroe 32238 |  | | |
| 3) | Belltech 8000 |  | | |
| 4) | Rancho RS5000X |  | | |
| 5) | MILLION PARTS |  | | |
Thus, it is imperative to keep an eye on the shocks to enjoy your driving experience and mainly for the sake of your safety. Shocks will also help you to perform a sudden maneuver such as saving a child or avoiding an animal that came across out of nowhere! In this article, I have given the best Ford Ranger shock reviews so that you can choose the most suitable shocks for your vehicle.
How to know when to replace shocks
Shock absorbers, much like any other auto part, need to be replaced after a certain point. The average is 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the shocks. But, how do you know when it’s time? What are the signs you should be aware of? Here they are:
- Lowered control while stopping: Is it taking longer than usual to stop your car? If yes, it could be because of worn out shocks. This is also a sign of danger because if you don’t stop immediately, you might risk an accident.
- Steering wheel vibrations: This is another big sign that your shocks need to be replaced. You will not be able to control your vehicle when the shocks are not performing their best. This is why your steering wheel will vibrate when you drive.
- Problems during turns: While swerving and dipping, if you are noticing difficulties, it is definitely due to your shocks.
- Shaking: Another sure shot sign that your shocks need replacement is shaking on uneven surfaces. The Ford Ranger is a tough vehicle that should easily navigate through various types of road conditions. If any type of road is causing it to shake, it is because of the shocks.
Best replacement shocks for Ford Ranger – Buying guide
These are the factors you should consider while buying replacement shocks for your Ford Ranger:
- Type: There are gas charged shocks and hydro shocks. There are also twin-tube designs and monotube designs. Each of them has pros and cons. Decide which one is the best for your needs.
- Compatibility: Shocks are engineered according to the vehicle. So, you must choose shocks specifically made for a Ford Ranger. Otherwise, you will have fitment issues.
- Design: Are they front shocks or rear shocks?
- Reliability: Good shocks will last at least 50,000 miles without problems. Keep this in your mind so that you don’t end up with cheap shocks.
- Other features: These include resistance to corrosion, lightweight material, resistance to oxidation, etc.
Contents
Best Replacement Shocks for Ford Ranger
1. Gabriel 43167 Rear Spring Assist Load Carrier Shocks
Here is a product that combines shock and spring technology that reduces the ride height while traveling. Its front coil springs run at the same rate and try to improve the stability of your vehicle and maintain the height. On the flip side, the variable-rate rear coil spring gives around five hundred lbs of load capacity. The brand is also famous for providing a chromed piston rod for corrosion resistance along with a leak-proof piston seal. These features help in extending the shock’s lifespan.
Key Features and Specifications
- It combines both the shock and spring technology altogether and becomes a budget-friendly solution for any heavy-duty uses.
- Its stable-rate front coil springs help in improving the level of stability and restore/maintain ride height according to the standard guidelines.
- Its variable-rate rear coil springs provide 500 lbs per pair of load capacity. Gabriel 43167 Rear Spring Assist Load Carrier Shocks does not increase payload.
- Its materials displace heat most proportionately and increase the chances of the product’s durability and longevity.
- It is compatible with the Ford 1980 to 1996, Bronco 1990 to 1997, F Super Duty 1980 to 1983, and F-450 Super Duty 1990 to 2011 Ranger.
- The best part about this product is that it is suitable for any old vehicle. So, even if you are unable to find its components, you can use these replaceable shocks.
2. Monroe 32238 Monro-Matic Plus Shocks for Ford Ranger
This shock system is specifically known for its compatibility with the large bore structure. To all those who may not know this term, let me tell you that a bore is the piston’s diameter. When the width is quite more comprehensive than the other model’s diameters, then you can choose this system for the rescue. Monroe provides more natural heat dissipation that eventually impacts the functionality and longevity. It can give you a smooth riding experience and assurance of long life.
Key Features and Specifications
- Its piston rod diameter is around half-inch. Its carburized exterior offers a long service life without expecting much maintenance.
- It works on non-dust shield units by taking mechanical force and converting it into the heat. Once done, the shocks distribute the heat to the surroundings.
- The bore width is around 1-3/16 inches, which is more significant than many other shocks. It provides optimal efficiency and consistent control.
- No such weather conditions can affect these shocks negatively. It gives the ultimate performance in each season by working smoothly.
- It is easy to install and helps in reducing the vibration of the vehicle without imposing any adverse effects on the ride height.
- It is suitable for any new model of your beloved brands. It is durable because of its quality materials that can also help in reducing friction.
3. Belltech 8000 Replacement Shock Absorber
KW Automotive – the parent company of this brand – is well-established and known for its shock absorber technology. Many OEM and aftermarket companies rely upon KW automotive’s suspension tuning. Belltech’s designers and engineers spend quite a tremendous amount of time just tuning a new line of shock absorbers. Mercedes AMG, Novitec Ferrari, Hennessey Motorsports, and a few more companies trust Belltech and KW Automotive for sport truck, SUV, or other car applications.
Key Features and Specifications
- Belltech’s shocks are famous for its value-oriented performance. You will experience a smooth feel and sound during your whole journey.
- The materials used by the company are best in quality. Its new design and innovation help in eliminating the air entering in the system.
- Its sealing structure is competent and always matches with even the minor changes of Ranger on each passing day. You can trust the fact that it is specially made for your vehicle.
- The cavitation-free valve train avoids air from decreasing the shock absorber’s effectiveness. Also, it is fully covered with durable metal dust boots that offer clean operations.
- Its metal has a protective coating that helps the shocks to stay rust-free for a longer run. Its OEM ride quality is ideal for better performance, control, and comfort.
- It is inexpensive and highly compatible. The rubber mounts are included in the kit. However, some users don’t suggest it for heavy use as the rubber fitting may wear down.
4. Rancho RS5000X Gas Shock Set for Ford Ranger 4WD
It is evident that we always look for compatibility whenever we think about the best shocks for Ford Ranger 4×4. If you are one of those people who love to spend some quality time with their old and rare models of Rangers, then this product is a boon for you. It offers smooth and effortless rides even at high speed. It’s because when you ride your truck or another vehicle at high speed, the vibrations increase in the vehicle’s undercarriage, but the shocks keep the cab unaffected.
Key Features and Specifications
- It is lightweight and easy to install/maneuver before and during setup. The kit includes all necessary parts to fit in with the whole shock system.
- These shocks are ideal for any four-wheelers. You will surely feel comfort as these tools can help you to drive in peace, without putting much effort.
- It works well with any model between 1998 and 2011 and includes all components for front and back installations. It also ensures a constant ride height.
- It is similar to the factory model and provides easy setup. However, it doesn’t work for the new models that have been launched after 2011.
5. Million Parts Front Shock Strut Absorbers Kits
When the majority part of the material used in the making of shocks is made of the metal, it is essential to consider the welding quality. It is directly related to the durability and operations of the shocks. So, make sure that the weld quality matches your requirements. Generally, the heat impacts negatively to the quality of the metal. The shocks, on the other hand, absorb the forceful impacts and try to avoid unsafe circumstances while you are traveling in your truck or SUV. This product is ideal for Ford 1995 to 2001, Mazda 1998 to 2008, Explorer 1998 to 2011, etc.
Key Features and Specifications
- Its newly developed valve technology is based on the car-speed. It ensures safety and provides all-round welding.
- It offers unbeatable stability with its piston seal. It is well-bonded with Telfon that helps in reducing friction. It also maintains the temperature to keep the valve’s firmness.
- The damping oil inside the shocks does not evaporate. It doesn’t let the weather oxidize the metal and also protect it from corrosion. It also protects the non-metallic parts of the shocks.
- These shocks will surely give you an enjoyable and memorable driving experience. Even if you are traveling on a harsh road with an infant or a 90-year old granny, then also you can trust the smoothness these shocks can provide.
- This product is ideal for any Ford Rangers that were made before 2011. It reduces wear and tear of your favorite models and is also compatible with some of the new models.
People also ask
Below are a few questions about shocks and their answers.
1) What are the best shocks for Ford Ranger?
Monroe and Rancho are usually the leaders. The others on our list are also just as reliable. It all comes down to personal preference.
2) How do I make my Ford Ranger smoother?
The easiest way to do this is to check the shocks and replace them if needed. Other factors that contribute to the smoothness of a vehicle are air pressure in the tire, quality of the tire, and the weight on the bed of the vehicle.
3) How much does it cost to replace shocks on a Ford Ranger?
If you do it yourself, you will only pay for the parts and that will cost you around $160. If you prefer a mechanic, you will pay $80 to $100 as labor charges.
4) Should I replace all 4 shocks at a time?
Yes. Or, you could replace them in pairs – just the front shocks or just the rear ones.
5) Can I replace shocks myself?
Yes, most shocks have bolt-on installation. You can do it yourself.
6) Can you drive with bad shocks?
We do not recommend that you drive with bad shocks. It is not just uncomfortable, it is also dangerous.
Buying the best replacement shocks for Ford Ranger requires a bit of research. You must keep a few things in mind before you invest any shocks for your fantastic vehicle. The first on the list is its compatibility. You must check whether the shocks you are willing to buy can fit in your Ranger. If not, you will have to compromise with the benefits. To check the compatibility, you can check the OE number and match it with your user manual. Other things to keep in mind is its effectiveness, designs, seal quality, and the product’s vulnerability.
Now that you know what to keep in mind before investing in a shock, you can choose the best replacement shocks for Ford Ranger from the list mentioned above. I hope you got everything you were looking for! Stay safe, drive moderate, and live fullest. 🙂