As an owner of a Ford F350 Super Duty, you understand that your truck is built for demanding tasks, from heavy towing to navigating various terrains. The performance of your shocks is a critical factor in how your truck handles these challenges, directly impacting your driving experience.
Selecting the right shocks is not just about comfort; it is about ensuring the safety, stability, and longevity of your vehicle. Outdated or worn shocks can lead to a rougher ride, reduced control, and increased wear on other suspension components.
By upgrading your shocks, you can significantly improve your truck’s ride quality, enjoy enhanced handling, and maintain better control, especially when carrying heavy loads or driving on uneven surfaces. This guide aims to help you navigate the options available, ensuring you can make an informed decision that benefits both your truck and your journey.
Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
🏆 Best Performance for Lifted Trucks |
95/100 |
|
|
💰 Best Value |
88/100 |
|
|
🎯 Best for Newer Stock Models |
90/100 |
|
|
🛠️ Reliable Choice for Older Models |
85/100 |
|
|
✨ Best Tailgate Convenience |
80/100 |
How We Chose the Best Shocks for Your F350 Super Duty
When selecting the best shocks for your Ford F350 Super Duty, we focused on several key factors to ensure you receive reliable and beneficial recommendations. First, compatibility and fitment were paramount, ensuring each shock is suitable for specific F350 model years and lift configurations. We evaluated ride quality and handling improvements, looking for shocks that offer a smoother ride, better control, and reduced body roll, especially under load. Durability and construction quality were also critical.
We considered the materials used, the manufacturing processes, and the presence of warranties to gauge a product’s expected lifespan. Ease of installation was a practical consideration, as many truck owners prefer to install these components themselves.
Finally, we thoroughly reviewed customer feedback and overall sentiment from user reviews, paying attention to common pros and cons, and assessing the price point to determine overall value.
IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shock
Imagine no more tailgates slamming down with a thud. This IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shock is a neat little upgrade for your Ford F-250, F-350, or F-450 Super Duty, specifically models from 2017 to 2024.
It’s designed to smoothly control the descent of your tailgate, so it glides down gently every time. You’ll find it makes daily tasks much easier on your hands and back, and it’s a smart way to prolong the life of your tailgate’s hinges and cables.
If you’re tired of wrestling with a heavy tailgate, this simple addition could be just what your truck needs.
What People Say
Many users rave about how simple it is to install this tailgate assist, often taking just a few minutes. They particularly appreciate the smooth, controlled drop of the tailgate, which feels much safer and more convenient than dealing with a heavy, slamming gate.
People also mention that it doesn’t make closing the tailgate any harder and generally operates quietly, proving to be a durable and effective upgrade.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Bob
What a excellent idea, I wish I had this years ago. Perfect fit, and had it installed in 5 minutes. Great piece of work.
🗣️ Connor H
Really like this. Super easy to install, fit my 2008 tundra perfectly. It’s a nice soft open, it does NOT make it harder to close, makes very little noise when lowering, seems to be made from good quality materials, has been durable so far.
When It Shines
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Hauling Heavy Gear |
Prevents the tailgate from slamming open, protecting both the tailgate and its contents. |
|
Everyday Errands |
Allows for easy, one-handed operation of the tailgate, perfect when your hands are full. |
|
Truck Longevity |
Reduces stress on tailgate hinges and cables, extending the overall life of your truck’s tailgate assembly. |
|
Working Solo |
No need to brace the tailgate with your body, making solo loading and unloading safer and more efficient. |
Safety First
This assist shock is all about safely controlling the tailgate’s descent. It uses a thickened steel cylinder body and QPQ nitrogen-treated piston rod, plus an anti-dust cover, all designed to ensure smooth, rattle-free operation and prevent uncontrolled, abrupt drops. This means you avoid potential injuries from a heavy tailgate falling too quickly.
Why You’ll Love This
- Controls tailgate drop smoothly
- Extends tailgate lifespan
- Easy, DIY-friendly installation
- Made with durable, high-quality materials
- Frees up your hands when opening the tailgate
Rating: 4.2 (total: 1,183+)
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Shocks
If you’re looking to seriously upgrade how your Ford F-250 or F-350 Super Duty feels on the road, especially if it has a 2-2.5” front lift and 0-1” rear lift (or 0-2″ front lift for Tremor packages), you’ll want to check out these Bilstein 5100 series shocks. They’re a direct replacement for your factory shocks and are built with a monotube design that delivers consistent, fade-free performance. What does that mean for you? A much smoother, more controlled ride, whether you’re cruising down the highway or tackling some rougher terrain.
They feature a unique piston that cleverly adapts to changing road conditions, making every drive more comfortable and predictable. Think of them as giving your truck a whole new level of composure and capability.
What People Say
Users frequently highlight how these Bilstein shocks offer a noticeable improvement over stock options, describing the ride quality as “perfect” and “way better.” Many appreciate their responsiveness and durability, with some confidently stating they expect the shocks to last the life of their truck. There’s a strong consensus that these are a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking a more comfortable and controlled driving experience.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Amazon Customer
Leveled my 2024 f250 put these shocks on way better than stock garbage shocks very responsive and ride quality is perfect !
🗣️ B Westervelt
Installed on my F250 Tremor Diesel after factory shocks leaked at less than 12K miles. These ride way better and I have no doubt they will last for the life of the truck.
Where They Excel
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily Commuting |
Transforms everyday driving into a smoother, more comfortable experience, absorbing bumps with ease. |
|
Hauling & Towing |
Provides enhanced stability and control, reducing sway and improving handling with heavy loads. |
|
Off-Road Adventures |
The digressive piston reacts to varying terrain, offering consistent performance and improved dependability on trails. |
|
Worn-Out Stock Shocks |
A significant upgrade from tired original equipment, restoring and surpassing your truck’s original ride quality. |
|
Long Road Trips |
Reduces driver fatigue by smoothing out the ride, making those extended journeys more enjoyable. |
Built to Last Safely
These shocks are engineered to maintain consistent performance, which is key for your safety on the road. The monotube design ensures heat dissipation, preventing ‘fade’ in performance during demanding conditions. The velocity-sensitive piston intelligently adapts to changes in the road, giving you predictable and responsive handling.
Plus, they’re built to Bilstein’s high quality and safety standards, giving you peace of mind.
What Makes These Shocks Great
- Significantly improved ride quality and handling
- Consistent, fade-free performance with monotube design
- Velocity-sensitive piston adapts to changing road conditions
- Backed by Bilstein’s limited lifetime warranty
- Direct fit for specific lifted F250/F350 Super Duty models
Rating: 4.7 (total: 34+)
Rancho RS5000 Shocks
If you’re driving a Ford F-250 or F-350 Super Duty from 2005-2016 (4WD, 0″ lift), and you’re thinking about replacing those worn-out shocks, the Rancho RS5000x series could be just what your truck needs. These aren’t just replacement parts; they’re designed to give you a noticeable improvement in how your truck handles and feels. With their unique Cross Tuned technology, you’ll find your ride becoming smoother and more controlled, whether you’re sticking to paved roads or venturing off the beaten path.
The engineering behind these shocks helps minimize those jarring impacts, especially at lower speeds, which can make your daily commute or a long work day much more comfortable. They’re built tough with durable materials, so you know they’re ready for whatever you throw at them.
Essentially, if you want your Super Duty to feel more composed and capable, these shocks are definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Customers often mention how well these shocks fit and how much they improve the ride quality, even on older, high-mileage trucks, making them feel “almost like new.” Many appreciate the “great ride” they provide for daily use and for handling heavier tasks like off-roading or pulling a boat. While some have experienced quality control issues, the majority of users find these Rancho shocks to be a solid replacement that delivers on performance and durability, especially for their Super Duty trucks.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ RmRracing
fit great. replaced original shocks on 2014 f 350 with 155000 miles
🗣️ HPW
Truck rides almost like new. These were original shocks on my 2012 4X4 F250 and replaced after 150 K. Good price & good quality
When They Shine
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily Driving |
Transforms your everyday commute into a noticeably smoother and more comfortable experience. |
|
Hauling and Towing |
Offers better vehicle control and stability when carrying heavy loads or pulling a trailer, reducing sway. |
|
Off-Roading |
Improves handling and performance on varied terrains, absorbing impacts effectively for a more confident ride. |
|
Replacing Old Shocks |
A fantastic upgrade from worn-out factory shocks, making your F-350 Super Duty feel ‘almost like new’ again. |
|
Extreme Temperatures |
Designed with all-weather fluid and nitrogen gas, they maintain consistent performance in very hot or cold conditions. |
Built for Reliability
These Rancho shocks are designed with several features that contribute to your truck’s safety. The large twin-tube body helps keep the fluid cool, which maintains consistent damping performance and vehicle control, even under demanding conditions.
The nitrogen gas pressurization minimizes air-to-oil mixing, preventing performance fade. Plus, the low-friction, self-lubricating seal helps ensure quick rebound and smooth compression, keeping your wheels in contact with the road for better stability and responsiveness.
The durable construction, including the nitro-carburized piston rod, also means they’re built to last, providing reliable performance over time.
What Makes These Shocks Stand Out
- Improved handling and performance on and off-road
- Smoother ride by reducing low-speed impacts
- Built tough to resist corrosion and enhance durability
- Maintains consistent performance in varied temperatures
- Backed by Rancho’s limited lifetime warranty
Rating: 4.3 (total: 271+)
Rancho RS5000X Shocks
If you’re running a Ford F-250 or F-350 Super Duty from 2017-2024 with a 0″ lift, and you’re looking to seriously upgrade your ride, you’ve found a fantastic option in the Rancho RS5000X Series shocks. These aren’t just your everyday replacements; they bring some serious tech to the table.
We’re talking about their special Cross Tuned technology, which really refines how your truck handles, both when you’re on the asphalt and when you decide to take the scenic route off-road. Plus, the Progressive Engagement Valving is custom-tuned to minimize those initial bumps and rough patches, making your drive much more comfortable.
They’re built like tanks too, designed to withstand extreme temperatures and resist corrosion, so you know they’ll keep performing year after year. If you want your Super Duty to feel more stable, responsive, and just generally smoother, these shocks are definitely worth a closer look.
What People Say
You’ll often hear that these shocks are a perfect fit and work exactly as expected. Many users rave about the easy installation and how the shocks truly bring their vehicle’s ride ‘back to new.’ People love how well they perform, making their Super Duty feel significantly improved and more responsive.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Charles324
Works great and easy install…
🗣️ James
Work as they should. Brings your vehicles ride back to new !
Where They Excel
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily Commutes |
Turns everyday driving into a smoother, more composed experience. |
|
Off-Road Adventures |
Enhances handling and control on challenging terrains, absorbing impacts effectively. |
|
Heavy Hauling |
Provides increased stability and confidence when you’re towing or carrying heavy loads. |
|
Extreme Weather |
Their all-weather fluid and durable build ensure consistent performance in hot or cold conditions. |
|
Upgrade from Stock |
Offers a noticeable upgrade over worn factory shocks, making your truck feel revitalized. |
Designed with Your Safety in Mind
When it comes to safety, these Rancho shocks have some smart design elements. The large twin-tube body, filled with all-weather fluid, helps dissipate heat, which means consistent performance and better vehicle control, even when things get demanding.
They also feature a tough 16mm nitro-carburized piston rod, built to resist damage from scuffs and corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability. Plus, the self-lubricating seal keeps gas and oil where they should be, allowing for quicker rebound and smoother compression.
This translates to your wheels staying in better contact with the road, providing improved stability and a more predictable response from your F-350.
Key Advantages
- Improved handling and performance for on and off-road driving
- Minimizes rough ride by reducing initial impacts at low speeds
- Strong and durable construction resists scuffs and corrosion
- Maintains consistent performance in extreme temperature changes
- Features a low-friction, self-lubricating seal for long-lasting use
Rating: 5.0 (total: 10+)
Detroit Axle Shock Absorbers
So, let’s talk about the Detroit Axle Shock Absorbers. If you’re driving a Ford F-250 or F-350 Super Duty (specifically 4WD models from 2005-2016 for the F-250 and 2008-2016 for the F-350, excluding the off-road package or cab & chassis), and you’re feeling every bump in the road, these might be your next best friend. What’s really cool is that this is a complete kit – you get both front and rear shocks, all ready to go, meaning you don’t need any special tools or extra work to get them installed.
They’ve gone through some pretty serious testing for impact, wear, and fatigue, so you know they’re built to last and give you that smooth, stable ride you crave. Whether you’re just cruising to work, heading out for a weekend adventure, or hauling some serious weight, these shocks are designed to handle it and make your truck feel like new again.
Plus, a 10-year warranty from Detroit Axle definitely gives you peace of mind.
What People Say
Many folks are really happy with how easy these shocks are to install, often mentioning they went on without a hitch and made their truck feel ‘like new.’ You’ll hear praises about them doing ‘what they should’ – absorbing impact effectively and making a noticeable difference in ride quality, especially on bumpy roads.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Amazon Customer
Great for price no complaints went on easy everything included very pleased
🗣️ Collin Gabriel
Truck drives fantastic! Wasnt expecting much for the price but they perform extremely well for the price. Truck doesn’t feel floaty and doesnt bounce around on these bumpy backroads of small town USA.
Where They Excel
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily Driving |
Restores a comfortable and stable ride for everyday commutes. |
|
Hauling or Towing |
Helps maintain vehicle control and reduce sag when carrying heavy loads. |
|
Navigating Rough Roads |
Minimizes bounce and float, providing better handling on uneven surfaces. |
|
DIY Installation |
Designed for straightforward installation, potentially saving you time and hassle. |
|
Upgrading an Older Truck |
An excellent replacement to bring an older F-250/F-350’s ride quality back to life. |
Designed With Your Safety In Mind
While not explicitly listed as ‘safety features,’ well-functioning shocks are crucial for your truck’s safety. These Detroit Axle shocks are designed to undergo rigorous impact, wear, and fatigue testing, which means they’re built to maintain consistent performance. This helps keep your tires firmly on the ground, improving traction, steering responsiveness, and overall control, especially during braking or navigating uneven terrain.
A stable ride means a safer ride, period.
Key Advantages
- Ready for installation with no special tools required
- Undergo extensive impact, wear, and fatigue testing for durability
- Comes as a complete set, including both front and rear shocks
- Backed by a substantial 10-year warranty
Rating: 4.4 (total: 100+)
FAQ
What Kind of Improvements Can I Expect from Upgrading the Shocks on My Ford F350 Super Duty?
When you upgrade the shocks on your Ford F350 Super Duty, you can anticipate a significantly improved driving experience. Many quality shocks are designed to provide a more comfortable ride by effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections, which means you’ll feel less of the road’s harshness.
You should also notice enhanced handling and vehicle control, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads, or navigating uneven terrain. Shocks with features like monotube designs or advanced valving systems can offer consistent, fade-free performance, reacting quickly to changing road conditions for greater stability and a more responsive feel behind the wheel.
How Do I Know Which Shocks Are Right for My Ford F350 Super Duty, Considering Different Models and Modifications?
Choosing the right shocks for your Ford F350 Super Duty primarily depends on your truck’s specific configuration and how you use it. First, you need to verify the exact model year of your F350 Super Duty, as shock compatibility can vary significantly.
You also need to confirm if your truck is 4WD, as most heavy-duty shocks are designed for this drivetrain. Crucially, determine if your truck has any suspension lift. Some shocks are specifically engineered for stock height vehicles, while others are optimized for trucks with a 2-2.5-inch front lift, or even specific packages like the Tremor.
Always match the shock’s stated lift compatibility with your vehicle’s current setup to ensure proper fit and optimal performance. Look for shocks that are explicitly ‘tuned for each specific application’ to get the best ride quality and handling tailored to your F350.
Is It Difficult to Install New Shocks on a Ford F350 Super Duty, and What Are Some Common Installation Tips?
Installing shocks on your Ford F350 Super Duty can be a manageable DIY project for some, with many users reporting that it’s ‘easy to install.’ However, it does require some basic mechanical knowledge and tools. If you’re comfortable working on your vehicle, you might find that you can replace all four shocks in a few hours.
A key tip is to ensure you have the correct tools and possibly a friend to help, especially with handling the larger components or getting proper leverage. If you’re not experienced with vehicle maintenance or feel unsure at any point, it’s always best to consider professional installation. This ensures the shocks are installed correctly and safely, maintaining your truck’s optimal performance and your peace of mind.
Top Shock Picks
When looking at top shock picks for your F350, youll often find a choice between the premium performance of Bilstein 5100 Monotube shocks, prized for their enhanced ride and durability, and the reliable, more budget-friendly upgrade offered by Rancho RS5000 shocks. While these focus on your suspension, if youre aiming for improved daily convenience, the IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shock is another popular pick that makes tailgate operation much smoother.
Wrapping Up
Investing in quality shocks for your Ford F350 Super Duty is a decision that significantly impacts your driving experience and your truck’s overall health. By choosing the right shock absorbers, you are not only improving your ride comfort and handling but also contributing to the safety and longevity of your vehicle.
A well-maintained suspension system helps to minimize wear on tires, brakes, and other critical components, saving you money in the long run. Whether you prioritize peak performance for a lifted truck, exceptional value, or a reliable upgrade for a specific model year, there is a suitable option available for you.
Remember to consider your truck’s specific year, any modifications like lifts, and your typical driving conditions when making your choice. Equipping your F350 with the right shocks means you can confidently tackle any road, knowing your truck is performing at its best.
| Product | Image | Rating | Type | Material | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43205 Truck Tailgate Assist Shock Strut |
 |
4.2/5 (1,183 reviews) | Tailgate Assist Shock | Thickened steel cylinder, QPQ nitrogen treatment piston rod | 1.1 pounds |
| TrendsAuto Set of 5100 Front & Rear Monotube Shocks |
 |
4.7/5 (34 reviews) | Monotube Shocks | Zinc | 24 pounds |
| Rancho RS5000 Shocks 05-14 |
 |
4.3/5 (271 reviews) | Twin-Tube Shocks | Metal | 22 pounds |
| RS5000X Series Set of Front & Rear Gas Shocks |
 |
5.0/5 (10 reviews) | Gas Shocks | Polyurethane, Steel, Rubber | 24.3 pounds |
| Detroit Axle – 4WD Shock Absorbers |
 |
4.4/5 (100 reviews) | Shock Absorbers | Black Metal | 22.9 pounds |
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