When you own a powerful vehicle like the 1999 Ford F250 Super Duty, the condition of its suspension system is incredibly important. You might not always think about your vehicle’s shocks, but they play a crucial role in how your truck handles, rides, and performs, both on and off the road.
Neglecting them can lead to a less comfortable ride, reduced control, and increased wear on other components. Upgrading your shocks can significantly improve your driving experience, offering you better stability, enhanced comfort, and more confidence behind the wheel. It helps ensure your truck can continue to handle the heavy loads and challenging terrains you expect it to.
This guide will walk you through some top options that can benefit your truck’s longevity and your peace of mind, focusing on solutions that offer a noticeable upgrade for your vehicle’s suspension needs.
Top Picks
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Category |
Product |
Score |
|---|---|---|
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🏆 Best Overall Lift Kit |
86/100 |
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💰 Best Value Lift Kit |
90/100 |
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💡 Best Innovation (Hood Support) |
92/100 |
How We Chose the Best for Your Truck
When evaluating suspension components for your truck, we focused on several key aspects to ensure you get the most out of your investment. We considered factors like ride comfort, as you want a smooth and controlled experience whether you are cruising on the highway or navigating rougher terrain.
Durability was also paramount; these components need to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. We looked at ease of installation, understanding that you might be looking for a straightforward upgrade. Customer reviews and overall value for money played a significant role, providing insights into real-world performance and satisfaction. Our aim was to identify products that offer a balance of quality, performance, and reliability, helping you make an informed decision for your vehicle.
TeraFlex 2.5″ Lift Kit
So, you’re looking to give your Jeep JKU Wrangler a bit of a boost and tackle tougher trails, right? Well, this TeraFlex 2.5″ Lift Kit with 9550 VSS Shock Absorbers is a solid contender. It’s designed to not only give you that extra ground clearance for bigger 35-inch tires but also to significantly improve your off-road experience. What’s cool is that TeraFlex really focuses on maintaining your Jeep’s on-road manners too.
So you’re not sacrificing daily comfort for weekend adventures. Whether you’re navigating urban potholes or conquering rocky trails, this kit aims to keep things smooth and stable. It’s a fantastic option if you’re ready to upgrade your JKU’s stance and capability without losing that crucial street comfort.
Pros and Cons
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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✅ Significant improvement in ride quality over stock |
❌ May require additional parts like exhaust spacers for certain models |
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✅ High-quality, heavy-duty components included |
❌ Axles might need adjustable track bars for proper centering after install |
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✅ Relatively straightforward installation for many users |
❌ Some users reported missing minor hardware or outdated instructions |
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✅ Effectively prevents ‘death wobble’ with larger tires |
❌ Rear brake line relocation brackets might cause rubbing in some cases |
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✅ Excellent customer support reported by users |
❌ A few isolated reports of spring sag over time |
What People Say
Folks are consistently impressed with how this kit transforms their JKU, noting significant improvements in ride comfort and off-road prowess. Many highlight the straightforward installation and the quality of the components, making it a favorite for DIY enthusiasts.
You’ll often hear about the smoother ride and how well it handles larger tires without the dreaded ‘death wobble’.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Todd Smiley
Purchased this item for a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport. In my opinion Teraflex makes the best of these brands in terms of quality, completeness of components as well as overall installation instructions and support. The ride quality did improve over the stock ‘Sport’ suspension ride quality. By improve, the ride is now softer and the suspension absorbs the bumps better than it had with the stock suspension. Highly recommend the suspension lift!
🗣️ Kate
I love this lift kit. Very easy to install. Took about 6 hours with jack stands. Definitely worth the money. Plus, no death wobble with it. Slapped 35″ Toyo open countries on it the next day.
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily Driving |
Provides a softer, more controlled, and smoother ride than the factory suspension, making your daily commute more comfortable. |
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Off-Road Adventures |
Increases ground clearance and allows you to fit larger tires (up to 35 inches), helping you navigate tougher trails and obstacles with ease. |
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Tire Upgrade |
Specifically designed to accommodate larger 35-inch tires, giving your JKU a more aggressive look and enhanced capability. |
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DIY Installation |
Many users found the installation manageable, especially by combining the provided instructions with online video guides, typically taking 4-6 hours. |
Built Tough
This kit is built with heavy-duty components, which many users find to be superior to OEM parts. While most reviews praise its robust nature and long-term performance, a very small number have reported issues like spring sag, but overall, it’s considered a durable upgrade.
Key Benefits
- Allows fitment of larger tires (up to 35 inches)
- Provides 2.5 inches of lift for increased ground clearance
- Enhances off-road capability and articulation
- Maintains excellent on-road handling and ride quality
- Includes all necessary hardware for installation
Rating: 4.3 (total: 103+)
maXpeedingrods JK Lift Kit
If you’re thinking about giving your Jeep Wrangler JK a fresh new look and some extra capability, this maXpeedingrods lift kit could be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s designed to give your JK a modest 2.5 inches of lift in the front and 2 inches in the rear, which is perfect for fitting those larger 33-inch tires you’ve been eyeing, and even up to 35-inch max.
What’s neat is that it aims to boost your Jeep’s on and off-road performance without making your daily drive feel like a monster truck rally. You get that elevated stance and improved ground clearance for tackling trails, all while aiming to keep your ride relatively smooth for everyday cruising.
It’s a solid choice if you want to enhance your Jeep’s presence and versatility without a complex overhaul.
Pros and Cons
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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✅ Provides a perfect and exact fit for compatible Jeep JK models |
❌ Does not include sway bar extensions, which some users wish were included |
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✅ Relatively easy and straightforward for many to install |
❌ Professional installation is recommended if you’re not familiar with suspension work |
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✅ Offers good value for the added height and appearance |
❌ Some users suggest purchasing new shocks before installation for optimal performance |
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✅ Accommodates larger tires, including 35-inch maximum |
❌ May require additional components like track bar relocation brackets for axle alignment with larger tires |
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✅ Designed to maintain a smooth ride quality |
❌ Considered more for aesthetics and light off-roading than extreme use |
What People Say
Many users have shared that this lift kit provides a great look and fit for their Jeeps, often highlighting its ease of installation. You’ll hear folks say it’s pretty straightforward to put on, making it a good option if you’re comfortable doing some wrenching yourself. The general consensus points to a solid upgrade that effectively lifts the vehicle and allows for bigger tires, giving your JK that more aggressive stance you’re probably looking for.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ M Curry
I purchased this for my wife’s 2018 JKU. Just what I was looking for. It has front and rear spacers, front and rear shock exgtenders, and front and rear brake line extenders, and the necessary hardware. The build quality is worth every penny and more. Installation is pretty straightforward if you’re comfortable with basic automotive work. These function as well as any other basic spacer lift, and it met my needs perfectly.
🗣️ Chandlar Groce
Great product. Came in great time. It was a perfect fit for my vehicle.
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Tire Upgrades |
You can fit those aggressive 33-inch, or even up to 35-inch, tires you’ve been dreaming of, instantly changing your Jeep’s look. |
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Weekend Off-Roading |
The increased ground clearance helps you tackle moderate trails and obstacles with more confidence, enhancing your adventure. |
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Daily Commuting |
While adding lift, it’s designed to help retain your Jeep’s smooth factory ride, so your daily trips remain comfortable. |
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DIY Projects |
Many users find the installation pretty straightforward, meaning you might be able to install it yourself with basic tools and some automotive know-how. |
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Carrying Gear |
The suspension lift helps manage cargo better, reducing sagging when you’re hauling extra weight. |
Built Tough
This kit features heavy-duty construction, with components that are generally considered robust for suspension parts. While one user noted some uneven welds, they clarified that the design ensures these welds don’t bear the weight, and the overall powder coating and fit-and-finish are good, suggesting a solid and reliable build for its purpose.
Key Benefits
- Adds 2.5 inches of front lift and 2 inches of rear lift
- Increases ground clearance for off-road adventures
- Allows fitment of larger tires, up to 35 inches
- Helps retain a smooth factory ride on and off-road
- Minimizes changes to suspension geometry for easier handling
- Includes shock extenders and brake line extenders
Rating: 4.5 (total: 11+)
u-Box JK Hood Lift Support
If you’re a Jeep JK owner and tired of fumbling with that flimsy prop rod every time you need to peek under the hood, then you’re going to love this. The u-Box Hood Lift Support is designed to make your life a whole lot easier by letting your hood stay open on its own, smoothly and securely. Imagine not having to awkwardly balance that stick or worry about it slipping – whether you’re topping off fluids, doing a quick inspection, or tackling a more involved project, your hands are free.
It’s a simple upgrade that makes a surprising difference in convenience, turning a minor chore into a hands-free operation.
Pros and Cons
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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✅ Makes opening your hood hands-free and simple |
❌ Installation instructions might be unclear or hard to read for some users |
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✅ Installation is quick and doesn’t require complex modifications |
❌ Some users suggest adding lock washers or threadlocker for extra security, as they are not included |
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✅ Frees up space under the hood by removing the prop rod |
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✅ Durable construction with rust-resistant parts |
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✅ Fits perfectly for compatible Jeep JK models |
What People Say
Folks who’ve already installed these hood lifts often rave about how straightforward the process is, even if the included instructions might be a bit minimal. You’ll frequently hear how much everyone appreciates not having to wrestle with the factory prop rod anymore, making routine checks or bigger projects under the hood a breeze.
It’s clear that this small change brings a lot of daily convenience and freedom, making many users wonder why Jeeps don’t come with these from the factory.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Cassie Illies
Love these things I wish jeep would have this factory great product easy to install and don’t have to use that hood stick anymore
🗣️ Pete N.
Super easy to install even with little to no installation instructions. Took every bit of 20 minutes to install these and they work great! I personally put a drop of Blue Loctite on every Fastener just because there were no lock washers included with the hardware. Would certainly recommend this to anyone that has a Jeep JK !
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
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Quick Inspections |
Your hood pops up and stays put, letting you quickly check fluids or inspect things without fumbling for a prop. |
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Working on the Engine |
You get full, unobstructed access to your engine bay, with both hands free to get the job done. |
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During Inclement Weather |
No more struggling with a wet or icy prop rod, simply lift the hood and it stays in place. |
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For Everyday Convenience |
It’s a small upgrade that brings significant ease to anyone who regularly accesses their Jeep’s engine compartment. |
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Enhancing Your Jeep’s Features |
Adds a modern, factory-like touch that many Jeep owners wish came standard. |
Built Tough
This hood lift support is built with sturdy steel brackets and features a piston rod that’s treated to resist rust and corrosion. This means you can count on it to last, standing up to the elements and frequent use without losing its ability to hold your hood securely in place.
It’s designed for long-term reliability, giving you peace of mind.
Key Benefits
- Makes opening and keeping your hood up effortless
- Frees up your hands for working under the hood
- Built with rust-resistant components for lasting durability
- Super easy to install without needing modifications
- Eliminates the need for the factory prop rod
Rating: 4.6 (total: 183+)
FAQ
Why Should I Consider New Shocks For My 1999 Ford F250 Super Duty?
Your 1999 Ford F250 Super Duty, being a hardworking truck, relies heavily on its shocks for a comfortable and safe ride. Over time, original equipment shocks wear out, leading to a noticeable degradation in handling and ride quality.
Upgrading or replacing them can significantly improve your truck’s stability, reduce body roll, and enhance its ability to absorb bumps, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. New shocks help maintain proper tire contact with the road, which is crucial for braking performance and overall safety. It’s an essential maintenance item that restores your truck’s original feel and often improves upon it for better control and comfort.
How Do I Choose The Right Shocks For My 1999 Ford F250 Super Duty?
Choosing the right shocks depends on how you primarily use your F250. If you mostly do daily driving and light hauling, a standard heavy-duty replacement shock designed for trucks will likely provide a great balance of comfort and control. For those who frequently tow heavy trailers or carry significant payloads, consider shocks specifically designed for towing, which offer firmer damping to manage the extra weight and prevent sag.
If you take your Super Duty off-road, look for performance shocks with features like larger diameter bodies, gas-charged designs, or even reservoir shocks for better heat dissipation during extended rough use. Always ensure the shocks are a direct fit for your 1999 F250 Super Duty, considering any lift kits or modifications you might have installed. Researching reputable brands known for truck suspension can help you narrow down your options.
What Are The Signs My 1999 Ford F250 Super Duty Needs New Shocks, And Can I Install Them Myself?
You can often tell your F250 needs new shocks if you experience excessive bounciness after hitting bumps, the front end “dives” excessively when braking, or the vehicle sways noticeably when cornering or in crosswinds. Another common sign is fluid leakage around the shock body or uneven tire wear.
Performing a “bounce test” by pushing down hard on each corner of the truck and observing how many times it bounces can also give you an indication; more than one or two bounces usually means worn shocks. While installing shocks on an F250 can be a DIY project for those with mechanical experience and the right tools, it can be challenging due to the truck’s size and potentially rusted bolts. If you’re not comfortable working under a heavy vehicle, it’s always best to have them installed by a qualified mechanic to ensure safety and proper fitment.
An alignment is typically recommended after shock replacement, especially if suspension components were disturbed.
Pick Your Shock
When it comes to selecting the ideal shock for your 1999 F250 Super Duty, youll want to prioritize based on your trucks primary use. Are you focused on a plush ride for daily driving, robust support for heavy towing and hauling, or superior articulation and durability for off-road adventures? Your choice hinges on matching the shocks design to your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right suspension components for your vehicle is a significant decision that impacts your driving experience in many ways. You gain improved handling, enhanced safety, and a more comfortable ride, whether you are towing, hauling, or simply commuting.
The options we have discussed provide a range of choices to meet different needs and budgets, each offering distinct advantages. By considering factors like your driving habits and specific vehicle requirements, you can select the best upgrade. Remember, investing in quality components for your vehicle’s suspension is an investment in its performance, your comfort, and its overall lifespan.
It allows you to continue enjoying your truck with confidence and control, making every journey more pleasant.
| TeraFlex 1251000 2.5″ Lift Kit | maXpeedingrods 2.5″ Front & 2″ Rear Lift Kit | u-Box Hood Lift Support Strut | |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Rating | 4.3/5 (103 reviews) | 4.5/5 (11 reviews) | 4.6/5 (183 reviews) |
| Lift Height | 2.5 inches | 2.5 inches front, 2 inches rear | N/A |
| Included Components |
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| Installation Time | 4 hours | Varies, typically a few hours | Minutes with simple hand tools |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
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