1998 Ford Expedition - Shock Replacement (Recommendations Needed)

[augy88066]

Hello! I have completely overhauled the suspension of my 1998 Ford Expedition but I have not yet replaced the shocks or springs. The springs seem fine but the shocks are original OEM from 1998 and mostly rotted out at this point.

Couple of questions:
1) Do you have any recommendations for good quality shocks for a 1998 Ford Expedition 5.4L w/ 4x4? The ride is very bouncy at the moment and has been for 5+ years. I suspect it is the shocks as literally, the casing is mostly gone / rotted out.
2) Should the OEM springs be replaced as well? There seems to be no rot on the springs and they look fine.

Other than that, control arms and ball joints have been replaced already. No other issues with the expedition besides a random code popping up once in a while stating, Bank 1 too lean. Even replaced the air filter, the housing and also the sensors within the housing.

Other work done to date:
- Entire vacuum system has been replaced.
- Throttle body cleaned and new throttle controller installed.
- Idle control valve replaced.
- Head gaskets replaced.
- Rear main seal replaced.
- Oil pan gasket replaced.
- New belts and timing chain.
- New plugs, did not do fuel injectors.
- Alternator replaced.

 

[J Hairston]

I'd recommend Rancho adjustables. I can't recall the series, possibly 9000's? I recently overhauled my suspension on my 1999 XLT 4x4 and have enjoyed mine so far. I purchased off of Rockauto.

 

[augy88066]

I'd recommend Rancho adjustables. I can't recall the series, possibly 9000's? I recently overhauled my suspension on my 1999 XLT 4x4 and have enjoyed mine so far. I purchased off of Rockauto.

Thank you! I will look into them!

 

[podsquad]

KYB 565088 (Heavy Duty) MonoMax Monotube
KYB 565019 (Heavy Duty) MonoMax Monotube.....Rear...will have to grind to fit.
I had air suspension....works great...one of the top fixes to the truck
The Rancho's are a dead end....they s.....

 

[Moeman]

If there's nothing in particular you're trying to accomplish, I'd just go OEM or some decent aftermarket brand. Shocks for that model are pretty dirt cheap. Got to Rock Auto and look under category "Factory Ride."

No need to replace springs if they are not broken or severely rusted.

 

[jgyatesjr]

On my 1997 Eddie Bauer I used NAPA OESpectrum in 2020 . I am pleased with performace but I don’t drive the Expedition much as it is a back-up vehicle for moving or carrying family and friends for outings. Only have 217,000 miles..prior to these shocks i has Elderbrock shocks for 20 years.. Paint still looks great- no rust...I have had no engine work but have replaced alternator, starter, coil packs, plugs, battery, brake pads/rotors, tires, lower ball joints, right header, rear trailing arms, rear brake line, vent window motors and AC pulley over the years.

 

[J Hairston]

Chiming back in here. I installed Rancho 9000XL adjustable shocks and they fixed my bouncy rear end. Easy and install and easier to adjust. Just get under the vehicle and turn the dial to your desired firmness/dampening setting.

 

[Petesexpy]

KYB 565088 (Heavy Duty) MonoMax Monotube
KYB 565019 (Heavy Duty) MonoMax Monotube.....Rear...will have to grind to fit.
I had air suspension....works great...one of the top fixes to the truck
The Rancho's are a dead end....they s.....

I did the same exact thing - it's been 5 years and these shocks are still going strong.