Suspension questions on the E350...

[bbasso]

Getting right to the point...
2000 E350 SD
What shocks are the popular/best choice?
How to tell when the springs are sagging or when near done?
I actually like the nice soft plush ride, but know it shouldn't be...

There is a bunch of miles on my van and I think it looks like a low rider compared to some of the lessor mileage ones. Any way of properly checking suspension sag/ droop?

thanks all

[blageurt]

Not that I know of , Ussually when springs are toasted they crack and or are bent / smiling the other way.... Also if you look art the truck from the back if it leans one way more than the other this is also an indication of wear /overloading. As far as Shocks go it depends on what you like and how much you want to spend and what kind of ride you need. I have Heavy Duty Monroe gas in mine but it is a work truck. I also upgraded the suspension to a Timbrens SES kit which gave me 1500lb more payload and cost the same as adding springs ( $ 300) and I did it in my Driveway in one hour...
Vehicle Suspension Kits - Timbren Suspension Enhancement Systems

[bbasso]

mine still work and look ok, no real signs... just me wondering about 765,000+ miles on the springs...
Looking at the link now, thanks

[bbasso]

After looking at the link, that setup looks like something I don't need. I don't haul that much weight. The normal suspension setup should be ok for 98% of my needs.

so replacements shocks and springs... your thoughts? anyone?

[carringb]

I wouldn't worry about spring sag until it actually becomes a clearance problem (driveways etc). There's plenty of rear suspension travel in these, bottoming out on the bump stops rarely happens.

As for shocks...

ANY good monotube shock will make a huge improvement in driving, without making the ride harsh. I use Les Schwab RMX monotubes because they have a lifetime warranty (parts and labor... and yes a squishy ride = new shocks).

Bilstein are also good, so are fox. Rancho makes some too. I don't think brand matters too much, as long as they are backed with a good warranty. These vans can go through them fast.

[bbasso]

good monotube shock. gotchya!
Off to find some...

You sure the springs with 765,000+ miles aren't getting un-sprung?

thank you.

[bbasso]

How does the Bilstein shocks hold up over time on the E350?

[jerry350]

I'm a Bilstein believer and in the rear, Super Springs....I've used several Manf. and Bilsteins in my opinion hold up the best.

[bbasso]

thanks

[Premier Kirby]

I like my bilsteins as well since changing out the ranchos that quigley provided. Bilsteins ride better. I have used these for years on older Mercedes diesel cars & they are legendary.