billmac

I just got my new Rancho's and was surprised to see the shocks did not have any tie straps. I checked the Rancho web sight and it indicated the RS9000X shocks were cellular gas type. These shocks must be hydraulic, hence the reason for no strap. I have a couple of questions for those that have installed these shocks on their trucks. Once you get the top mounted, I assume you just pull the shock out as far as you need to. Should I work the piston a few times before I mount the shock. Last question, obviously these shocks will not last as long as a gas shock such as Bilsteins or Monroe Gas Magnums especially considering the weight of the Cummins engine in our trucks. Does anyone have any long term experience with the shocks? I was just wondering how many miles I might expect to see the shocks hold up for. Thanks for any replies and patience for novice questions.

20014x4

I've had mine for about 40000 miles now. setting three in the front and two in the rear. I don't do alot of heavy hauling. They still feel as good as the day I baught them. . Check summit I think they're on sale right now.

KATOOM

I hope you made a good choice since I just ordered some. I have the KYB Monomax's and they are WAY to stiff. Or at least the back is. I just cant stand the ride anymore and I want to enjoy driving my truck. I dont know why people say that anything other than Bilsteins will go bad given the weight of the Cummins. I would think that means Bilsteins or KYB's dont move very much (what I am experiencing now) and than means the rest of the truck including you is taking up the rest of the abuse thus wearing everything else out. Oh well, hope they work good for you.

billmac

Thanks guys for the replies. Looks like I made a good choice in going with the Ranchos. Jlipskoc, my reference to "work the pistons" was a poor choice of words. Actually what I meant was to expand and compress the shock a few times.

Mexstan

I've had the 9000's for almost a year now and about 15,000 miles. Don't often have the truck fully loaded but do drive on a lot of rough roads. So far no problems. Even with these shocks the back of the truck is stiff with no load so I use a piece of 4X4 placed behind the rear wheel wells and then use about 4 sand bags between the wood and the tailgate. That makes a huge difference to the ride. If you don't use a restraint such as the 4X4 the sandbags slide to the front of the box quickly and don't do the same job.
When I am pulling stumps that same 4X4 acts as my force multiplying lever to pull the stumps out at an angle, so for me it serves a dual purpose.

DodgeCowboy

hey mexstan do you have a gooseneck hitch? if you do try pulling stumps with that would be amazed at how much better bang you get for you buck

Mexstan

No gooseneck, but this method works great.
Thanks.