How to Replace shocks on your 1983-1990 Ford Ranger

My shipment of shocks came in so today I show you how they fit, where they go, and a few tips to help you along the way if you decide to tackle this suspension system project on your own car or truck. This will help you replace your shocks faster and easier with less breakage of you or your suspension system on your car or truck. These shocks are for trucks with up to a 3” lift. The rear suspension is already lifted 2”, and in a future episode I will replace the stick front springs with 2” lift springs. It just takes some basic automotive hand tools to beat the rust and patina under my truck into submission today, now lets get this Danger Ranger some new budget 4x4 shocks!

[@Ash-zh5yg]

I've used a lot of lube sprays and not scientifically just by feel. Liquid Wrench stands above all of them and became the one I reach for in the pile.

[@Foxcanfixit]

For me it depends on what I’m doing, if I want to let it soak, deep creep, if I’m using the drill press, liquid wrench or PB, kroil only if it’s on sale

[@con_man-]

i’m a bit late to the party but how did the shocks ride? i’d like to get me a set for my 88 but nobody has a review on them on these old trucks.

[@Foxcanfixit]

In the back a little stiff if the beds empty, in the front, perfect.

[@SoutherxSickxess]

Dumb question. Never worked on cars but I want to start doing basic maintenance. I have a 1991 ranger extended cab 4x4. This tutorial should be the same correct ?

[@Charon-5582]

Should be... I'm pretty sure they kept the chassis the same. The part is the same on rock auto.

[@docchung9085]

I actually just bought rear shocks but been too lazy to do them in the cold. Do you need to support the weight of the truck with a jack when replacing the rear shocks? Or would the leaf springs support the weight?

[@Foxcanfixit]

The springs support the truck. Shocks are not load bearing. Easy on and off.

[@Foxcanfixit]

Now if it’s Struts, then yes most if not all struts have the spring attached and bear weight. Struts you have to Jack the car up and take the weight off the suspension.

[@jesusamaya8144]

Fox what size are your tires they look great please let me know

[@Foxcanfixit]

30x9.5R15 Achilles Desert Hawk XMT

[@tristandeppe5215]

@Foxcanfixit Garage got the same size on my 86 bronco ii. Fit and look great with the factory lift which seems to be exactly the height you did to your ranger here.

[@zachconroy1443]

I thought for sure you were gonna use Fox Shocks.😉

[@Foxcanfixit]

Love to but waaaaaay out of my price range.

[@charleshurley7255]

Was that a lift? In you garage? Jealous

[@Foxcanfixit]

Yes and it came with the house!

[@charleshurley7255]

@@Foxcanfixit I think you should move....hint

[@dallasburke9464]

How did those skyjackers hold up

[@Foxcanfixit]

Very well. I have alternated between using them and Rancho for years.