I think the monroes are not only a better price but a better value. Rancho shocks are the 5000 series they have had for years. They are good shocks but the monroes, although not an offroad brand name, are however better suited for multiple uses such as all-terrain. monroe also makes rear loading shock absorbers for heavy loads in the back of the dakota. Such as quads! They allow up to 1200 lbs (which happens to be our GVWR after truck weight) Monroe also manufacturers rancho so you know you are getting the same quality for a MUCH better price.

The only reason many people spend the extra cash is for the Rancho name, where-as in my opinion its not a better product.

 

what is the model number for the monroe shocks with the absorbers both front and back

 

I just recently installed the Rancho shocks on my '05 Dakota and let me tell you they are worth every penny. The truck still rides very smooth but the old bucking horse ride is completely gone when you hit holes or bumps. Best option I have installed on my truck. Instant gratification!!!

 

Sorry I posted it twice.

 

Do you have any kind of lift on your truck? I am still interested in these as they seem to be firmer but the price is very jacked up compared to the monroes.

 

The monroe's are the sensa-tracs which have a grooved section in them so that the ride is softer normally then when the piston moves past the grooves it gets harder. People who have the spacer in the strut have reported that they can be rather bouncy since the spacer puts the piston near the top of the grooved area at rest. I personally will be installing Rancho's when I switch my shocks unless something better comes out between now and then (hoping but it doesn't look likely).

 

I think this has been asked but not an answer what are the part numbers for the front and rear shocks/struts for the rancho and the monroes?

 

No, unfortunatly they do not. if it they are listed anywhere it is a misprint from an old catalog. Check the Monroe website!

I wanted some bad!

LB

 

Hey I'm new the forums and to owning a Dakota, I have an 06.

I was wondering do the Rancho's work on an 06? my ride is really bouncy and it only has 25k.

I thought they had struts on the front, is it hard to change them over to shocks?