I have spent some time trying to find out what Ford uses for springs and shocks for different F150 packages. Below is what I have found out and I was hoping I could find out how the FX4 rides in comparision to the Sport package. Below you will see that the major change is only the shocks for the FX4 and the part numbers are based on a 2021 F150 XLT, 3.5L EB, 4X4, 145" SCREW. Max tow only changes the rear springs.

Sport, front spring 5310, front shock AST86044, rear spring not listed, rear shock ASH1264, front stabilizer 5482
Max Tow, front spring 5310, front shock AST86044, rear spring 5560, rear shock ASH1264, front stabilizer 5482
FX4, front spring 5310, front shock AST86047, rear spring not listed, rear shock ASH1271, front stabilizer 5482

Thanks for any comments.

 

I doubt there'd me much (if any) noticeable difference between FX4 and non-FX4 ride quality. While there probably is valving differences between the two shocks, it's probably just varied enough for Ford to claim it's an "off-road" shock. Some claim they're the exact same shocks, just with different part numbers.

The only way to know for sure would be to throw two brand new shocks on a shock dynamometer, and I've never come across anyone that has done this.

 

I was reviewing threads last night and there seems to be lots of different opinions on ride quality. Probably best to take them out for a test drive to see the differences.

 

I have found that I can get the FX4 package for the same price as upgrading to a locked differential. Should I or will I be sorry about possible bounce and ride issues?

 

I have nothing to compare it to, but I do find the FX4 shocks a bit bouncy. I'm swapping them out for the Roush tuned Fox 2.0 F&R.

 

My last three previous trucks (XLTs) were all FX4...but I ordered my new Lariat without the FX4. I am very happy with the ride of this new '21...and have had several people tell me it's the best riding truck they have ridden in. Then again...I didn't complain about the ride of my other trucks either. They all seemed to ride excellent, especially for a 4x4 truck . Mine probably has some sort of bounce too, but I've never really even noticed it since it rides so smooth.

 

I think I will get the non-FX4 version, I like the ride in it.

 

I drove both before I ordered my Lariat. With 18" tires I couldn't tell the difference in ride between the Fx4 and 4x4 versions. I ended up ordering the Fx4 and am pleased with the ride after 1600 miles on the truck.

 

I went to the dealer today and drove both the 4X4 and the FX4. Personally, I liked the 4X4 package. I will not be off-roading so the FX4 package is something I do not need.