So while replacing my sway bar links I noticed that I only have front shocks no springs. Did the ranger's come with front springs, I would have assumed they did but I could be wrong. The really big question is if the ranger did come with shocks, does anyone know if I'll fail New York State inspection if I don't replace them?

Thanks.

 

Those bars that run from the LCA to mounts in front of the transmission cross members are the springs. There are called torsion bars. They are one of the most ridiculous and least effective suspension systems ever made. Chevy invented it and some guy at Ford decided in 1998 is was a good idea. We hate them so much that people pay $$$$ to do coil-over "strut" conversion.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsion_bar_suspension

 

Well that makes perfect sense.... not really but makes sense why I'm lacking in suspension parts I thought I had.

 

Wirelessly posted

2wd have springs

 

Except we are talking about a 99 4x4

 

To change the subject to shocks now. If I wanted to replace my rotting suspension, and get a little lift(1-3") in the process is there any recommendations for replacement shocks?

 

bilstein are very good shocks

 

How are you planning on lifting 1-3 inches? If BL then any shocks will do because your suspension is unchanged. With a T-bar crank then I would do Bilsteins or Monroe Sensatracs if your on a budget. KYBs and Ranchos are ight as well.

 

I was thinking of going with Bilsteins or Monroe Sensatracs I've heard good things from both. It isn't so much of a lift but something that can go off roading. The plan is to beef up the suspension.

 

Yeah the Bilsteins work very well. And torsion bars are not a "ridiculous" suspension design, they are very durable and fairly inexpensive for use in trucks and what not. They also take up less room where it counts as they are on the bottom of the truck instead of being mashed in with the control arms, etc. Their downside is they cannot respond as quickly to the road, giving a very harsh ride. ...And they were not invented by Chevy

 

I was being facetious about the Chevy thing haha. They are just one of the first to use it on IFS 4x4s. 1988 I believe.

And it's a god awful suspension. One of the main reasons I'm not looking into 06+ 4x4 Rangers. IMO of course.

 

I think it was older than that, but yeah you get used to the bone jarring effects quickly. Just never ride in a vehicle with a better suspension and you won't realize how bad it is haha.

 

Guess so. My torsion bar history is rusty so to speak lol. I was partially correct. Either way......sucks.