nasars

It time to replace my shocks, 05 lariat 4x4. 78000 miles. Do I realy need to replace the front springs or can I just replace the shock? Is the spring a part that normally wears out? I was looking at my service manual and it states that I have to remove the rear caliper to replace the rear shocks, it looks like I would have enough room to get shock off without taking off the calipers, what's been everybody's experience? I will probably be going with the monroe reflex front and rear. I was looking at the monroe load leveling shock, but was afraid that the ride would be to harsh. I only tow my camper about 5 times a year (6000lb).
Thanks

tritonbullet

You need what is called a quick strut. It's a spring and shock combo or you could say the entire unit. Monroe sells a decent set. Check out Monroe shocks.

2006scab

You can change you rear shocks without removing the calipers. I wouldn't replace the springs if they still look good. You will need a spring compressor tool so you can disassemble the spring from the old strut and put it on the new strut. Or you can probably take it to a shop and get them to do that. You can rent the tool from the auto parts store.

screamineagle

This^^^ Rear shocks are a breeze, fronts are essentially the same as a cars struts. Rent the spring compressor for free, it's very simple and cheaper than strut assemblies.

nasars

Thanks for the advice, Springs look in good shape. Was leaning toward just doing shocks. Can anyone speak to how stiff a ride the Monroe load leveling shocks give you? Trying to decide between those and the Monroe reflex.