I was browsing through a catalog at the Rancho 9000s. Can anybody comment on any improvements after replacing from a stock shock? I see they are included in the off-road package, just wondering if there is much difference from what I have. I have made nosuspension changes yet. I had the 5000s on my old 1/2 ton Ford, they were great. The truck I have know gets a little loose in the back on washboard gravel roads when empty. I need to fix that. My 1/2 ton ford was better under those conditions. I might have to drive around carrying a ton of sand in the back.

 

I wouldn't call it an upgrade, get a set of Bilstiens, and for the best results get a set tuned by Kore engineering. ks

 

I have a set of the 9000Xs and for me, they work good. I don't have any roads like that around me (at least none I go on) so it's hard to say exactly how they'll handle.

 

I have the 9000xs, I have had then on for over 15000 miles. I put them on because I added 2" leveling kit and 315s. I am satisfied with the shocks. I like the fact I have some adjustment options. I opted for the Ranchos from research on various forums.

My first Dodge diesel, owned chevy/gm 4x4s for over 30 years before. I always had full lift kits, oversize tires and what ever was the recommended shocks or the shocks that came with the kits, so not very good at comparing stock shocks.

If I hadnt added leveling kit and 315s I would have went with the Bilstiens, seems that the Ranchos are a little rougher with the same shock protection. But I am use to a rough HD 4x4 ride and dont pay much attention to the ride, just how they affect handling in various conditions. The Ranchos seem to do ok for handling. I dont tow any heavy loads, so I cant comment on handling with heavy load.

My recommendation is if you are not lifting or going to oversized tires go with the Bilstiens for a more comfortable ride. If you want options on stiffness and load levels go with the Ranchos.

Just my .02.

 

I have had Rancho 9000's on 2 lifted jeeps and my wife's dodge durango. Although I haven't put them on my Ram 2500 yet, I will do so soon. As I'm sure you could tell from your old ford that they really improve handling both on and off road. My durango and jeep cherokee were very "floaty" with oem shocks and the 9000x's got rid of a lot of sway. I can't attest for the Bilsteins, but have heard lots of good feedback on them. The 9000's will give you similar performance as your 5000's were, but the flexibility of adjustment. I adjust mine on my jeep when going from road to trail or towing. They maintain their stiffness and dampening for many years, too.

 

I too notice that the rear end of my truck gets a little squirmish going over rough roads. I would like to know if shock upgrade would take care of this or not?

Thanks,

Nick