I have a 2001 Dakota 4X4 extended cab and need new front shocks. Two questions:

1. Does anyone have experience with Gabriel Max Control Monotube Shocks (77905)? I was looking at Bilsteins, but they are crazy expensive.

2. I had the front tire off and looked at the mounting location. It looks like an easy install. Is it? Is there any way to get screwed during installation?

Thanks for your help.

 

No experience with Gabriel's, but a popular shock on this forum that a lot of people have(including myself) are Monroe Reflex's at $37 a piece on Rockauto.

Quite happy with them.

And the install is quite simple, you may have a difficult time getting to the top shock bolt for the rear but its definitely doable. Front's were quite simple.

Edit: Just realized you said you were doing fronts only. Yes they are quite simple and you shouldn't run into any troubles.

 

I've used gabriel shocks, they are ok cheap replacements, the monroes are a better quality in my experience

 

I'm using the Monroe Reflex too. No problems.

 

I've had at least 3 sets of KYB shocks & struts (different vehicles) over the years and I've been happy with them.

Check out the selection at Rockauto.com. If you order, google 'rockauto discount code' for 5% off the final parts total, but not shipping. Rockauto is the best!

 

Thank you everyone for your helpful comments. I ordered front and rear Monroe Reflex shocks. I'll update this post after installation.

 

I had Reflex on my truck too, they were a great shock with excellent ride quality/handling. If Monroe still made the Reflex for a 2 wheel drive Dakota I would still be using them. Now I have Gabriel Ultra's and have been very happy with them, they are the most similar to the Reflex that I have found.

Jimmy

 

Reflex here also...

 

I have the Gabriel Max shocks all around and I love them. They are firm, but not uncomfortable. Good for off-road use.

 

Just got the four Monroe Reflex shock installed. The lower bolts on both rears and left front were corroded to the point that a torch had to be used to break the seized threads. It was a PIA, but now they're in and the ride is MUCH improved. Thanks to all for suggesting these shocks.