Hi, I actually have a pair of air shocks at the rear of the ranchero (1975), i want to replace them because they always loose air and would like to install classics shocks, any brands to suggest ? something that could lift up a bit the rear would be welcome. Thanks
I'm using Monroe 58539 overload shocks (not air shocks); they raised the rear about 3/4 inch and work great. They didn't make the car ride any harsher either. https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog...cid+v8,1333460,suspension,shock+absorber,7556
Shocks should never be used to lift a vehicle. The mount locations aren't engineered for that load. Having said that, I used to put air shocks on all my rides.
Following TestDummy's post ... shocks cannot be assumed to "lift" the rear of a vehicle (or the front). They only add friction to the movement of the normal springs. If you need it to sit higher, change the springs.
KYB shocks at all the corners work well,handle,ride nice.Air bags inside springs if your going to haul heavy loads/trailer. http://www.ranchero.us/forum/index....ne-recommend-new-rear-shocks-for-my-76.21612/
Yes, I agree, the springs determine final ride height, and if you need to keep the rear from sagging with a load, airbags inside the springs are the way to go. You can put good shocks on, like Monroe or KYB, then install bags and use the air lines from the shocks to inflate the bags.
WHen I got my Ranchero, it had Gabriel air shocks. They didn't hold air well, and I though air shocks were dumb, so I took them off and replaced them with heavy duty conventional Monroes. After two weeks, I gave the Monroes to a friend and installed new Gabriel High Jackers, an air pump under the front of the bed, and a panel under the dast with a gauge & switch. My Ranchero handles and rides 150% better with the air shocks. (YMMV)
