2021 Lariat 60,000 miles - stupid to upgrade suspension?

[hookem57]

Hello all, I have a 2021 Lariat that is my daily driver that has 60,000+ miles, and I've owned it since new. I have a color matched A.R.E. shell, and it's set up for camping with a rack, roof top tent, and 270 awning that is mounted full time. I've noticed lately that the ride feels "wallowy" and not very tight. It's probably been going on for a while, but just now noticeable to me. Do you think it's worth the $1,800 to upgrade my suspension with the Ford Performance Off-road leveling kit with the FOX coil overs? I'm on a limited income now (64 yo) and anticipate keeping the truck for as long as it is a good runner. I keep up with all recommended maintenance. Thanks.

I have a '21 Tremor. I put Eibach Pro 2's all around. I had a '21 FX4 with Fox, the Tremor had Fox. After the Eibachs I'll never go back to Fox.

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[jflogerzi]

it's time for a spring and shock upgrade in the rear..Fords stock suspension is garbage other than the fox tremor spec. That's a lot of weight. I would prioritize a rear shock plus rear leaf spring upgrade and grab the matching fronts when funds allow

 

[2thdr]

I have a '21 Tremor. I put Eibach Pro 2's all around. I had a '21 FX4 with Fox, the Tremor had Fox. After the Eibachs I'll never go back to Fox.

What did the Eibach Pro 2's do better than the Fox and what type of surface did you notice the improvement on? Is your rig loaded with weight up high and in the bed? I'm mostly trying to correct a mushy feeling, without precise control, and lots of roll in corners. I'm also thinking about a rear sway bar, but don't know if that will help. Air bags would help if they are able to be on separate air chambers (right vs. left).

 

[Frenchy]

A sway bar will help with side to side motions. If hitting the trail, I would not bother with a rear sway bar. Understanding that you want an improved ride over stock(easy to do BTW) I would go the Old Man EMU route. If on a budget I would go with the Nitrocharger suspension with the correct springs front and rear. This will help you achieve a good ride overall with good vehicle dynamics.

 

[Beach]

2thdr,

I'm in the same general boat with my truck (although I have a little over 100,000 miles on mine). I've also noticed that "wallowing" feeling in the shocks, and I plan on holding onto my truck for the long haul—the goal is to pass it down to my son for his first vehicle in the not-too-distant future.

BLUF-- You're on the right track. The shocks are a common weak point on these vehicles, so an upgrade like the one you're considering is definitely worth it in my opinion.

That said, although Fox is a great upgrade, based on my research and what I've seen from others, I would recommend looking into the Eibach Pro-Truck Stage 2 Kit. It's another great alternative that should address the issues you're feeling. Truth be told, I’m on the lookout for a deal for an Eibach Pro-Truck Stage 2 Kit right now (shameless plug if anyone has a set they are willing to part with)!

To make the decision a bit easier, here is a breakdown of what I've found comparing the three main contenders (There are definitely more options out there, but to keep it simple, here are three that always come up on the forum) based on manufacturer data (not all encompassing but you get the idea).

Shock Comparison: Fox vs. Eibach vs. Bilstein

Feature	Fox Performance Series 2.0	Eibach Pro-Truck Stage 2 Kit	Bilstein 5100 Shocks
Maintenance	Fox recommends a factory service/rebuild every 50,000 miles for mixed use (I believe). Basic service for a full set of four 2.0 reservoir shocks starts at $510 (rough estimate), plus any additional parts if there is damage.	Eibach promotes this as a "set it and forget it" system with no rebuilding necessary. It's designed for durability and long-term performance without scheduled maintenance.	Bilstein also designs the 5100 series as a low-maintenance, "set it and forget it" option with no rebuilding required. They are known for their long-term durability under various conditions.
Load Handling	These shocks are engineered for high performance and can handle significant loads. However, their softer, performance-oriented valving may feel less controlled with a constant heavy load compared to shocks specifically tuned for that purpose.	This system is specifically engineered to handle additional weight from gear like bumpers, winches, and racks, providing a more controlled ride and reducing body roll. The front coilovers have an adjustable spring perch to compensate for increased loads.	The 5100s feature a monotube design with a unique, velocity-sensitive, digressive piston that reacts to changing road conditions. They are designed to be suitable for heavy hauling and towing, often providing a firmer, more controlled ride.
Warranty	Fox offers a 1-Year Limited Warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Modifications or improper service can void the warranty.	Eibach provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty on their Pro-Truck shocks, covering factory defects in material and workmanship.	Bilstein offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty for the original purchaser, covering defects and ensuring consistent, fade-free performance.
Cost	Generally the most expensive option. A set of four Performance Series 2.0 shocks can range from approximately $1000 to $1,600+, depending on the specific vehicle and features like reservoirs. Rebuild costs are an additional long-term expense.	A highly competitive mid-range option. The Pro-Truck Stage 2 kit typically costs between $1,200 and $1,600.	Usually the most budget-friendly of the three. A full set of four Bilstein 5100 shocks generally costs between $400 and $500.

A Few More Thoughts:

With your A.R.E. shell, camping rack, rooftop tent, and awning mounted full-time, you have a significant amount of constant weight on your truck. That's why I lean towards the Eibach Pro-Truck Stage 2 kit. It seems perfectly suited for our kind of setup, where handling that extra weight while improving on-road comfort and off-road capability is key. The lifetime warranty and "set it and forget it" design are big pluses.

As for another option, if you're looking for something a bit cheaper than Fox or Eibach, the Bilstein 5100 shocks are a fantastic choice.

They are renowned in the truck world for being a durable, effective upgrade over stock suspension, especially for handling weight, and come with an excellent lifetime warranty.

If you have the time, take a look at the attached video. It's from Shock Surplus and they test out all three of these setups. It was a big help for me and may help with your decision too:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9oqO0_9Gvw

Hope this helps and good luck with the decision,
NOMAD

I second the Eibach pro truck kit, should be cheaper. I paid $500 for mine, levelled the front 2.5" and much less softness and float. Good company

 

[Racket]

Just adding to the chorus, I changed out my rear shocks (Eibach) springs (UK multispring takeoffs) and switched to Sumo Blue bumpstops myself but got a shop to put in the Eibach adjustable struts up front to level the truck then do the alignment.

I realigned the headlights afterwards myself (instructions somewhere here on the forum) and I'm happy. With paid labor I probably spent $1100 total and consider it a bargain for the ride improvement.

 

[Rtball]

New to the Forum, so hope I am not stepping on anyone's toes with my input.
I installed a rear sway bar on my 2019 F-150 Platinum, plus the Bilsteins. I believe that the sway bar made the most difference concerning wallowing or sloppy handling. The sway bars are ungodly pricey for the Ranger compared to what I paid 6 years ago.
My Ranger is a resurrected 2022 XL with 134k miles and by all visual evaluation has the original shocks. It handles great! No one mentioned the sway bars that I noticed, so I am just adding my nickel's worth..

 

[Dereku]

New to the Forum, so hope I am not stepping on anyone's toes with my input.
I installed a rear sway bar on my 2019 F-150 Platinum, plus the Bilsteins. I believe that the sway bar made the most difference concerning wallowing or sloppy handling. The sway bars are ungodly pricey for the Ranger compared to what I paid 6 years ago.
My Ranger is a resurrected 2022 XL with 134k miles and by all visual evaluation has the original shocks. It handles great! No one mentioned the sway bars that I noticed, so I am just adding my nickel's worth..

Toe stepping on is always appreciated. Welcome to the mini truck world. Former full sizer here. Less people and less crazy builds here but we make do.

 

[TxOTRRanger]

New to the Forum, so hope I am not stepping on anyone's toes with my input.
I installed a rear sway bar on my 2019 F-150 Platinum, plus the Bilsteins. I believe that the sway bar made the most difference concerning wallowing or sloppy handling. The sway bars are ungodly pricey for the Ranger compared to what I paid 6 years ago.
My Ranger is a resurrected 2022 XL with 134k miles and by all visual evaluation has the original shocks. It handles great! No one mentioned the sway bars that I noticed, so I am just adding my nickel's worth..

Welcome to the Party!
We're just a bunch of Misfits that Have Fun and Enjoy our trucks!

 

[Dereku]

Welcome to the Party!
We're just a bunch of Misfits that Have Fun and Enjoy our trucks!

Don’t mislead the new guy, we are upstanding citizens.

 

[2thdr]

New to the Forum, so hope I am not stepping on anyone's toes with my input.
I installed a rear sway bar on my 2019 F-150 Platinum, plus the Bilsteins. I believe that the sway bar made the most difference concerning wallowing or sloppy handling. The sway bars are ungodly pricey for the Ranger compared to what I paid 6 years ago.
My Ranger is a resurrected 2022 XL with 134k miles and by all visual evaluation has the original shocks. It handles great! No one mentioned the sway bars that I noticed, so I am just adding my nickel's worth..

Yeah, I kinda choked on the price of Hellwig sway bar!
After all the helpful input here, spending too much time on the interweb, and getting some advice from Sean at Surplus Shocks i decided on:

Bilstein 6112 front shocks
Bilstein 5100 rear shocks

I decided on the Bilstein's due to reviews, reputation, and advice, especially since they should go up to 100,000 miles, not needing to be serviced or rebuilt, unlike Fox and some others. Additionally instead of a sway bar, I am going to try some Sumo Springs in the rear. Individually inflatable air bags would work also, but at about five times the cost. I'm going to install the rear shocks and Sumo Springs myself to save labor cost and have my local Ford dealer install the front coil overs for about $600. In the plan is also to source some Bronco Sasquatch 17x8.5 take-off wheels and slightly wider tires when it's time to replace tires.
If this doesn't get the ride to where I think it can be, I can always try a Hellwig sway bar and maybe an OME leaf spring pack.
Thanks everyone, I'll try to come back when I've got everything done and give some feedback.

 

[TxOTRRanger]

Don’t mislead the new guy, we are upstanding citizens.

I thought that is what we're supposed to do. Mislead them lol.

 

[Dereku]

I thought that is what we're supposed to do. Mislead them lol.

Only when it applies to the long term savings of owning a ranger. The 5100 shocks get better fuel economy.

 

[TheExtra404]

I thought that is what we're supposed to do. Mislead them lol.

It worked on me...

 

[Racket]

I'm encouraged by @Rtball praising the ride quality on a high mileage 5G.

It makes me wonder if I was too harsh in my initial assessment... but then I expect after the refresh OP will be freaking ecstatic.

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