KYB 565009 MonoMax Gas Shock , Red

I have a 1997 F-150 with 200K plus and the rear shocks were factory original. I never repleced them because of time and the stud was against the bottom of the truck bed. I was getting ready to perform other suspension repairs and decided I was going to bite the bullet and attack these rear shocks. I searched several options and for the price and compatibility, i chose the KYB's. When the repairs were completed and I drove the truck down the mile long gravel road I live on, I immediately noticed a more stable handing from the rear of the truck. The rough surface didn't cause the back of the truck to kick out to the side like before. I am very happy with the ride control provided by the KYB's.

Shocks work ok, but be sure to check the nuts, washers, etc. I ordered two. Once came with the correct parts, the other was clearly for another model. It was easier to got to HD and get what I needed than a return et al so I don't know how the customer service would have been...

The 'ol f150 was getting pretty low in the back with a load in the bed. I've got a couple thousand miles on these new shocks and the truck is feeling much better over rough roads, empty or loaded.

Nice and stiff, rides like a truck now! Takes bumps pretty well, like I said stiff but strong. If you're looking for smooth like a car these are not it. If you're looking for strong and reliable with good handling and a truck-like ride then these are great. A few thousand miles and they're doing wonderful, highly recommended.

If I say that the wife says good deal, it's a good deal. She's much happier with the ride.

I bought a full set of KYB MonoMax shocks KYB 565009 & 565006) for my 1999 F150 4X4 pickup (which already came with heavy duty shocks as OEM, but had 77k miles on them). These new shocks made a huge difference in handling and ride. The steering seemed much better as the roll is damped out and more controlled. I was not expecting this much improvement! Not too hard to install.

Seems like good shocks, however I gave them 4 stars because the ride is a little bumpy.

Recommended by my mechanic who installed on his truck. Nice alternative to Ranchos. Nice firm ride.