At least on the 2wd, the fronts are "struts", the rears are "shocks", hence the difference in price. As already stated, the fronts require a little more labor and a specialty tool, so another difference in price. If you can get ahold of a spring compressor (HEAVY DUTY due to the size of the springs), then it is a very simple job and will save you some money.

Not sure if the 4wd has the same set-up, but I do know some of the parts are the same.

OK, now that everyone has pointed out how little I know, it all makes sense.

Yes, the fronts are "struts", the rears are "shocks". A strut has to dampen "springyness" like a shock, but also has to resist side forces (and this, of course is because there's no solid axle in the front?). So, it's a bit more complicated than a simple shock. And, it combines the front suspension spring, while on the rear, that part is separate.

But, I stand by my opinion that a shock/strut really doesn't have to be changed immediately just because it's seeping. I don't think they fail catastrophically. And, if the spring portion of the strut were broken, you probably wouldn't want to drive the truck at all, but I doubt that's the problem. So, if it's a seeping shock portion, I rely on the bounce test until I have the money.

- Jack

Awesome! and thanks for all the help! :D

Probably worth exactly what you've paid for it! :hehe: (I learned that in my Air Force days.)

- Jack

:hehe::smiley_roll1: I sure hope it save's me money... but dont expect me to pay anyone what I saved... ;)

Jack,

It wasn't meant to prove how much you do or do not know, just provide some info. ;) ;) I also agree with you, no need to replace at this time; just keep an eye on it.

George

George - PLEASE don't ever hesitate to correct me when I'm wrong! One thing I do not want to do, is put out bad advice/information. As our friend shotgun is fond of quoting from a talk by Gen Powell: "Good judgement comes from experience. Experience comes from bad judgement." Substitute "knowledge" for "judgment", and "mistakes" for "experience" and you understand my philosophy. I don't like to be wrong, but I hate it even more when I'm wrong and don't know it.

I'm always grateful when people take the time to educate me. :thumbs up yellow:

- Jack

So I finally got around to checking on the shocks myself, and I looked at what the dealer said... Shocks are fine, and they just said to replace them because they are rated for 50,000 miles and I already have 70,000 miles. Guess I can save the money for the future! :D
Thanks for all the help and advice!

THAT, is a new one on me! I would not touch them if the bounce test says they're good!

- Jack

My next set will be the Bilsteins.....

I did look into king shocks and wow!
A set of those will set you back a lot....