My 2cents : bilstein 5100

 

Stock, new shocks.

 

Stock struts will be the best for what you are looking for. You may add some type of rear shock if you feel as though the bed is a bit "hoppy" but its not needed if you are not feeling any issues. Unless you are wanting to spend up to 5K on suspension upgrades, I would not change to any aftermarket struts for your condition.

 

There are those who think new OEM shocks perfectly good, and others who feel the best place for them is a dumpster. I tend to the latter.
You could drive and tow with non-functioning shocks and many do barely noticing it. I just prefer the stability and handling of better shocks. KM

 

I don't particularly care for the stock shocks, but they're most likely the "most comfortable" per the request.

 

46,000 km on 2017 Lariat and when changing the wheels for the winter ones yesterday I have noticed some traces of oil on the left front shock. So far I did not see the difference in the ride quality but, I guess, it is a question of time.
Right now it is a bad time to approach any garage because some people just love to have someone else to swap their tires or wheels Seasonal thing, it shall pass.
Considering mainly on-road driving but the Canadian/Quebec definition of the "road" + considering relatively harsh winters, what brand/model of shocks would you recommend? I am not looking for the lift/leveling options, just replacing the shocks with an alternative I won't regret. Not necessarily top of the line.
When replacing the shocks on F-150, is it just the shock absorbers or it is better to have the kit with the springs?
I assume it is not a good idea to use the dealer for this, they probably only install Ford original parts? If any of the fellow Canadians did it recently, how much did you pay for the front shocks + labour?

Thanks!

 

Per original question - For comfort, not off road performance - Monroe Reflex Part No: 911335. I tried Skyjacker Black MAX shocks first - performed well, but the bushings got loose/ovaled relatively quickly so they rattled. Replaced with the Reflex's at 22,000 miles (at 24,400 now) and rides well, doesn't hop like the OEMs (one shock did show signs of leakage at change). Realize they are only twin tubes and a small step up, but for street and gravel/soft dirt fine for now. Perhaps Ford Performance Fox Suspension or Roush Kit in future...

 

Thanks for the suggestions!

There is something odd on Monroe website, they say:

PART NO: 911335
SHOCK ABSORBER - REFLEX

• FEATURES
• DESCRIPTION

Product: Reflex Shock Absorber
Position: Rear
Application Qty: 2

Rear?

 

Me bad - saw shocks, thought rear. Saw you asked for front struts...sorry...I did not make that change yet to provide insight.

 

Seems all of this is more focused on stock height to leveled applications. I went the other way and went lower with mine and I'm pretty pleased with it. I just have a 1/2 Belltech kit but went from their 1" shackle to a 2" so it's sitting at 1/3. The struts are very comfortable for the most part though dips in the road they can be a bit floaty. For what I have into the setup, I don't really have any complaints. My Stifflers traction bars didn't change the ride quality at all either. I would like to move to Vikings and a VAS front end at some point, little bro has Viking adjustables on this cat-eye Chevy and they're quite nice I must say.