I just installed a set of Rancho RSX front shocks on my 01 xlt 4x4. They greatly improve the ride, stiff and eliminate some body roll, but do take some of the bump feel out of the ride. Good on highway, better control, a little bit compared to stock. I would reccommend them.
The shop first ordered some Skyjacker Hydro shocks, but when I tried to put them on, I realized they were wrong in that the stock ones had a bracket built into the bottom ring special for my a-arm. Took em back, and had to get Rancho's, they couldn't find any that fit from Skyjacker or Superlift.
Both of the stock shocks, on the top screw thread, sheared right apart, they were fairly rusted.