Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If you drive a 2017-2022 Ford F-350, worn shocks can make everyday driving feel unsettled and reduce towing confidence. The right shock absorbers restore damping control, reduce body roll while loaded, and improve braking stability. This guide shortlists the top six options tuned for the F-350's weight and typical towing or hauling duty.We focus on durability, damping characteristics, and fitment for front and rear positions. Below you will find our top picks for common use cases, plus the decision factors that matter when you need to replace worn shocks. Read on to see how each option performs against towing load, off-highway use, and longevity expectations.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Bilstein 5100 Series Front and Rear Monotube Shock Set (fits 2017–2024 F250/F350 Super Duty) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Fox 2.0 Performance Series Rear Shocks, Pair for 2017–2022 Ford F-350 4WD |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | TRQ Front Shock Absorber Set (2-piece) SBA60444 |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Bilstein 5160 Series Front Shock Absorber (25-311815) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Detroit Axle Front Shock and Sway Bar End Link Kit for 4WD Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty (2010–2022) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Rough Country N3 Front Shock Absorbers (2–4.5" Lift) for 2005–2023 Ford F-350 |  |
1. Bilstein 5100 Series Front and Rear Monotube Shock Set (fits 2017–2024 F250/F350 Super Duty)
| Model Number | 24-274951/24-274968 |
|---|---|
| Set Name | 5100 Series Shock Set |
| Unit Count | 4 Count |
| Compatible Vehicle Type | Truck |
These Bilstein 5100 Series shocks are a direct-fit upgrade tuned for lifted Super Duty trucks and sold as a front-and-rear four-pack. They use a monotube design and a velocity-sensitive, digressive piston that adjusts damping with changing road conditions, which helps reduce fade and maintain consistent control on rough pavement and light off-road trails. In everyday use they smooth bumps, reduce body roll, and sharpen steering response compared with worn or soft factory shocks, while still leaving a composed ride for towing and daily driving. Installation is straightforward for a shop or experienced DIYer because they are application-specific; the listing calls out fitment for 2–2.5 inch front lifts and up to 1 inch rear lift on 2017–2024 F250/F350 Super Duty trucks. Limitations are that these are tuned for lifted trucks rather than full extreme off-road racing, and buyers must confirm the exact Tremor or non-Tremor lift combination before ordering to ensure correct front shock fitment.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable, ride-focused upgrade for a lifted Super Duty that balances on-road comfort with improved control for occasional off-road use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking race-level off-road performance or those who need shocks tuned for heavier payloads or specialized competition setups should consider more aggressive, purpose-built options.
- Monotube construction delivers consistent, fade-resistant damping under repeated use
- Velocity-sensitive, digressive piston adapts to changing road surfaces for better control
- Tuned specifically for lifted Super Duty applications for improved ride and handling
- Direct-fit design simplifies installation for the specified truck and lift combinations
- Not intended for extreme off-road race use where custom valving or reservoir shocks are preferable
Verdict: A well-balanced, lift-tuned shock set that noticeably tightens handling and improves ride comfort on lifted 2017–2024 Super Duty trucks.
2. Fox 2.0 Performance Series Rear Shocks, Pair for 2017–2022 Ford F-350 4WD
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Material Type | Aluminum, Metal |
These Fox 2.0 Performance Series rear shocks are a vehicle-specific replacement designed to upgrade ride control on 2017–2022 Ford F-350 4WD trucks. They use a mono-tube IFP design with race-proven valving and a high-flow damping piston to reduce oil aeration and deliver predictable damping over rough roads and at higher speeds. The aluminum smooth body improves cooling and resists corrosion while the kit includes the necessary washers, bushings, clamps, and nuts so installation reuses factory mounting bolts. In practice the shocks give firmer, more controlled rear-end behavior when hauling or towing and better composure off-road compared with basic factory units. These are intended for trucks with stock suspension or light lifts up to one inch and do not include remote reservoirs, boots, or mounting plates. Expect a noticeable performance-oriented improvement in handling and heat management, but you should plan for a direct-fit replacement with limited lift range rather than a custom off-road reservoir setup.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize firmer, more controlled rear suspension for towing, hauling, or spirited off-road driving and want a direct-fit, performance-oriented upgrade for their F-350.
Less Ideal for: Owners who run significant suspension lifts, need long-travel reservoir shocks, or want a soft, comfort-focused street ride should consider other options.
- IFP mono-tube design prevents oil aeration for consistent damping under heavy use
- Race-proven valving and high-flow piston deliver predictable handling on- and off-road
- Aluminum smooth body improves cooling and resists corrosion
- Includes necessary washers, bushings, clamps, and nuts for direct replacement
- Not intended for lifts greater than 1 inch or vehicles needing remote reservoir shocks
- Shock boots and roost shields are sold separately
Verdict: A direct-fit, race-tuned rear shock pair that sharpens handling and heat management for performance-minded F-350 drivers with up to a 1-inch rear lift.
3. TRQ Front Shock Absorber Set (2-piece) SBA60444
| Brand | TRQ |
|---|---|
| Set Name | 2 Piece Shock Absorber Set |
| Material Type | Steel |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 2 years |
| Auto Part Position | Front |
This TRQ 2-piece front shock absorber kit replaces the factory front shocks on compatible Ford Super Duty trucks and is sold as a matched left and right pair. It is a direct-fit, steel-bodied design intended for front installation and comes preassembled to simplify DIY swaps. In use the shocks reduce front-end vibration and road noise while restoring a firmer, more controlled ride compared with worn originals, and TRQ includes step-by-step installation videos that make home installation straightforward for mechanically inclined owners. Notable features are the vehicle-specific fitment, machined exterior finish, and a two-year manufacturer warranty. Limitations include the basic, non-adjustable valving that is tuned for general replacement rather than performance tuning, and the kit is specific to front positions and the listed Super Duty fitment so it is not a full-vehicle shock solution.
Best for: Buyers looking to replace worn front shocks on a Super Duty truck on a budget who want a direct-fit, easy-to-install pair that restores factory-like control without aftermarket tuning.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking adjustable or heavy-duty performance shocks for extreme towing, off-road use, or custom suspension tuning should consider performance-oriented alternatives.
- Vehicle-specific direct-fit design for straightforward replacement
- Sold as a matched front driver and passenger pair for balanced performance
- Includes DIY installation videos to simplify home installation
- Two-year manufacturer warranty for added ownership confidence
- Non-adjustable valving limits fine-tuning for hauling or towing preferences
Verdict: A cost-conscious, direct-fit front shock pair for Super Duty trucks that restores ride control and is easy for DIY replacement.
4. Bilstein 5160 Series Front Shock Absorber (25-311815)
| Auto Part Position | Front |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Included Components | Shocks and Struts |
| Material Type | Steel, Aluminum |
The Bilstein 5160 Series front shock is a vehicle-specific replacement designed to reuse the truck's factory coil springs and mounting points for a direct fit on 2017–2022 Ford F-350 Super Duty applications. It uses Bilstein's monotube technology to deliver firmer, more controlled damping that reduces body roll and improves steering feel when carrying heavy loads or towing. Installation is straightforward since it fits factory locations and lets you align the vehicle to factory specifications afterward. The machined finish and steel and aluminum construction suggest durability for frequent highway miles and work use, while the single-count packaging covers one front unit. This shock favors drivers who prioritize consistent, long-lasting ride control over softer comfort-oriented tuning. Expect a firmer ride compared with softer aftermarket options and plan to replace shocks in axle pairs for balanced performance.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize reliable, repeatable suspension control for towing, hauling, and heavy-duty driving and want a direct-fit shock that restores factory handling characteristics.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking the softest possible highway comfort or a plush, cushioned ride for daily street use should consider comfort-focused replacements instead.
- Direct fit for factory coil springs and OEM mounting locations for simple installation
- Monotube design provides consistent, controlled damping under load
- Durable steel and aluminum construction with machined finish
- Tends toward a firmer ride compared with comfort-tuned shocks
Verdict: Choose this Bilstein 5160 front shock if you want a durable, direct-fit replacement that restores firm, dependable control for a 2017–2022 F-350 used for towing and heavy-duty work.
5. Detroit Axle Front Shock and Sway Bar End Link Kit for 4WD Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty (2010–2022)
| Brand Name | Detroit Axle |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 80463-4C |
| Set Name | kit |
| Unit Count | 4 Count |
| Auto Part Position | Front |
This Detroit Axle kit replaces the front shock absorbers and sway bar end links on 4WD Super Duty trucks and is intended as a direct-fit vehicle-specific repair. It is typically used to restore ride control and reduce body roll after worn shocks or failed end links; installation ships as fully assembled units so you do not need a coil spring compressor or unusual specialty tools. Notable features include electrophoretic coating for improved corrosion resistance and parts manufactured to factory-style fit and function. In practice the shocks will reinstate stability and handling on rough roads and when carrying loads, and the included end links help eliminate clunks and excessive sway. The kit targets straightforward home-or-shop replacement work, but it is limited to 4WD Super Duty configurations and excludes RWD and Tremor-package trucks. Also the listing references vehicle-year coverage rather than adjustable ride characteristics, so drivers seeking tuned performance damping or progressive-rate upgrades should look elsewhere.
Best for: Buyers who value proven, vehicle-specific replacement parts and want a straightforward repair backed by lots of user feedback and established brand presence.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for performance-tuned or adjustable shocks or those who have RWD or Tremor-package trucks should consider other suspension upgrades or fitments.
- Complete front kit includes both shock absorbers and sway bar end links for a coordinated repair
- Fully assembled units simplify installation and remove need for a coil spring compressor
- Electrophoretic coating enhances corrosion and oxidation resistance
- Vehicle-specific fit designed to match factory mounting and restore ride geometry
- Fitment limited to 4WD Super Duty models and excludes RWD and Tremor-package configurations
Verdict: A practical, fully assembled front shock and end-link kit that restores factory-style ride and stability on 4WD F-250/F-350 Super Duty trucks.
6. Rough Country N3 Front Shock Absorbers (2–4.5" Lift) for 2005–2023 Ford F-350
| Applicable vehicle | 2005-2023 4WD Ford F-350 Super |
|---|---|
| Fitment lift range | 2-4.5" lift |
| Set | Front shocks set, sold in pairs |
| Materials | Alloy steel, rubber, zinc |
| Construction | Drilling required: No |
These Rough Country N3 front shocks are built for lifted F-350s and deliver firmer, more controlled front-end damping compared with stock shocks. They use nitrogen charge and a 54mm fast-cooling shock body to reduce fade during heavy use, and rubber bushings to cut vibration transfer. Installation is vehicle-specific with no drilling required and the set is sold as a pair. Practical benefits include improved ride control for towing, hauling, and off-road driving on a 2 to 4.5 inch lift, plus corrosion-resistant alloy steel construction. Limitations to note are the firmer feel compared with factory shocks, which can make short-bump harshness more noticeable on smooth pavement, and the product is intended only for trucks already lifted within the specified range. Rough Country recommends professional installation and routine post-install inspections to maintain safety and alignment.
Best for: A buyer who values predictable, heavy-duty damping for a lifted F-350 and prefers a factory-style replacement that improves control for towing and off-road use while accepting a firmer ride.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a plush, comfort-oriented daily ride on a stock-height truck or those who want adjustable performance tuning should consider other options.
- Nitrogen-charged design and 54mm shock body reduce fade under heavy loads
- Vehicle-specific fit for lifted F-350s with no drilling required
- Rubber bushings help isolate vibration and reduce noise transfer
- Durable alloy steel and zinc construction resists corrosion
- Noticeably firmer ride than factory shocks, especially on small bumps
- Only fits trucks with 2–4.5 inches of lift so not suitable for stock-height vehicles
Verdict: Choose these shocks if you need a durable, nitrogen-charged front shock that improves control on a 2–4.5 inch lifted F-350.
Choosing the Right 2017-2022 Ford F-350 Shock Absorber: Key Factors to Consider
Damping Characteristics
Damping determines how the shock absorber controls spring motion during compression and rebound. For the F-350, look for shocks tuned to manage both unloaded driving and the heavier demands of towing or hauling. Stiffer compression damping helps resist bottoming under load, while controlled rebound damping prevents the rear from oscillating after a bump.
Mis-matched damping can cause a bouncy ride, increased stopping distance on rough surfaces, and instability when towing. Choose shocks that advertise distinct compression and rebound tuning or valving designed for heavy-duty use to preserve ride balance across typical F-350 duty cycles.
Load and Towing Capacity
Shocks for a heavy truck must handle payload and trailer tongue weight without overheating or fading. Consider shocks rated for the gross vehicle weight and common tow loads you carry. Some shocks are specifically valved or gas-charged to control fade under repeated compressions, which matters for long downhill descents or frequent stop-and-go towing.
If you routinely tow heavy loads, prioritize shocks with stronger damping and thermal management to maintain performance during long trips. For occasional light towing, a more comfort-oriented valving may be acceptable but still needs adequate bottoming resistance.
Front Versus Rear Fitment
Front shock absorbers and rear shock replacement needs differ because the F-350's suspension geometry, spring rates, and mounting hardware vary by axle. Front shocks typically focus on roll control and steering feedback, while rear units must manage axle hop, sag, and trailer sway influence.
When selecting replacements, confirm front and rear compatibility rather than assuming a universal part. Properly matched front and rear valving maintains vehicle balance and predictable handling under load.
Durability and Corrosion Resistance
Work trucks see rough conditions and exposure to road salt, water, and debris. Durable construction, robust seals, and protective finishes extend service life and reduce the risk of leakage. Look for features such as hardened piston rods, lab-tested seal designs, and anti-corrosion coatings on the body or mount areas.
Longer-lasting shocks maintain consistent damping over time, reducing the frequency of replacement and preventing progressive handling degradation that comes from degraded seals or worn internal components.
Mounting Type and Serviceability
Different shock designs use eyelet, stud, or monotube strut-style mounts that affect ease of installation and replacement. Confirm the mounting type matches factory locations on the 2017-2022 F-350 and whether any hardware or bushings need replacement during install. Serviceable designs with replaceable cartridges or rebuild kits can be more economical over the long term for high-mileage trucks.
Consider the availability of spare parts and the complexity of installation if you plan to do the job yourself. Proper torque of mounting hardware and correct bushing orientation influence longevity and NVH characteristics.
Heat Management and Gas Charging
Shocks that dissipate heat effectively resist fade during prolonged use. Gas-charged or monotube designs often offer improved thermal behaviour compared with basic twin-tube units. For an F-350 that frequently hauls or engages in heavy-duty duty, select shocks with proven gas charging and oil circulation designs to retain consistent damping.
Heat-related fade causes temporary loss of damping control and noticeable changes in ride and handling after sustained use. Better heat handling contributes to predictable behavior on long highway pulls and steep descents.
Signs You Need Shock Absorber Replacement
Recognizing early shock absorber symptoms helps prevent progressive wear to other suspension components and keeps towing behavior predictable. Common signs include a noticeably bouncy ride over repeated bumps, visible fluid leaks on the shock bodies, and increased nose dive during braking.
For the F-350, also watch for uneven tire wear, a tendency to sway or oscillate when towing, and trailer-induced porpoising at highway speeds. Strange noises from the suspension can indicate worn mounts or internal damage rather than just the shock itself.
- Persistent bounce after a bump or dip
- Visible oil stains on the shock body
- Excessive body roll or nose dive under braking
- Uneven tire wear across the contact patch
- Clunking or rattling from shock mounting points
How Proper Shocks Improve Towing and Hauling
The right shock absorbers reduce axle movement under load, which limits sag and preserves steering geometry. This keeps braking distances more consistent and reduces trailer sway tendencies when the truck is loaded.
Well-chosen shocks also improve driver confidence by dampening road disturbances that would otherwise amplify through a heavily laden chassis. That makes long trips less fatiguing and minimizes the chance of cargo shift that can affect handling.
- Better sag control under payload preserves ride height
- Reduced axle hop improves traction during acceleration
- More consistent braking dynamics with heavy loads
Installation Considerations for F-350 Owners
Replacing shocks on a 2017-2022 F-350 is generally straightforward but can require lifting the vehicle and supporting axles safely. Verify torque specs and bushing orientation from factory service information and replace any deteriorated bushings or mounting hardware while you have access.
If you plan to do front and rear shock replacement yourself, gather proper tools and consider having an assistant for alignment of heavy components. For trucks with aftermarket suspension or lift kits, double-check shock length and travel to avoid binding or limited suspension articulation.
- Inspect and replace worn bushings or hardware during installation
- Follow factory torque specifications to avoid mount failure
- Confirm shock length and travel if truck has lift or leveling modifications
Noise and NVH: Diagnosing Shock Absorber Noise
Rattles, clunks, or hydraulic slosh noises often signal worn mounts or internal shock damage. A dry clunk at compression can mean a loose mount or collapsed bushing, while a wet slosh usually indicates fluid migration from a damaged unit.
To isolate shock-related noise, test with the vehicle unladen and apply steady pressure to compress each corner while listening near the shock and mount. Replacing worn shocks and associated hardware typically removes most ride-related noise issues.
- Listen for different noise types: clunking, sloshing, or squeaks
- Test each corner individually to isolate the source
- Replace accompanying bushings to eliminate mount-related noise
Matching Shock Type to Driving Style
Select a shock type based on whether you prioritize comfort, towing performance, or off-road capability. Comfort-focused valving smooths small bumps but may not control heavy loads as well. Heavy-duty valving or monotube designs handle heat and repeated compressions better for towing.
If your F-350 sees mixed use, consider a compromise that leans slightly toward load control while retaining enough compliance for daily driving. Adjustable shocks offer flexibility but may require proper setup to avoid making handling worse.
- Comfort valving: smoother ride unloaded, limited heavy-load control
- Heavy-duty valving: better for towing, firmer feel
- Adjustable shocks: flexible but require correct setup
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ford F-350 configuration to see the most relevant Shock Absorbers recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2017-2022 Ford F-350 Shock Absorber
We selected candidates based on objective criteria that reflect how owners use a 2017-2022 Ford F-350. Key evaluation points included long-term durability under heavy loads, damping characteristics for both unloaded and towed conditions, and compatibility with the F-350's front and rear mounting points and suspension geometry. We also considered corrosion resistance and sealing for vehicles that see road salt or work-site exposure, plus serviceability such as rebuildability or cartridge replacement where applicable. Ride quality was assessed by whether the shock reduces rebound and compression harshness without creating excessive stiffness for daily driving. Towing and payload performance was measured by expected sag control, anti-porpoising when towing, and side-to-side stability under load.We excluded units designed solely for light-duty trucks or non-F-350 suspensions, adjustable shocks that require complex recalibration beyond typical owner capability, and options lacking clear fitment guidance for the 2017-2022 F-350. The resulting shortlist reflects a balance between longevity, ride control, and real-world towing performance rather than marketing claims alone.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I replace shock absorbers on a 2017-2022 F-350?
Replacement frequency depends on use and conditions. For a work or towing truck, expect shock life to shorten; inspect annually for leaks and performance. Many owners plan replacement every 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on observed symptoms and duty cycle.
Can I just replace the rear shock absorbers and keep the front originals?
You can replace rear shocks independently, and doing so will address rear sag or axle hop. However, mismatched front and rear damping can alter balance, so inspect front units and consider replacing them if they show similar wear or reduced performance.
What are the typical signs of bad shocks on my F-350?
Typical symptoms include excessive bouncing after a bump, uneven tire wear, fluid leaks, increased body roll, and new suspension noises. For towing, watch for trailer-induced porpoising and reduced stability under load.
Will stronger shocks make my F-350 ride too stiff?
Stronger damping can increase firmness, especially when unloaded, but well-matched shocks are valved to balance comfort and control. Choose valving appropriate to your common use; heavy-duty valving is ideal if you regularly tow or haul.
Is a gas-charged or monotube design better for towing?
Gas-charged or monotube designs typically manage heat and repeated compressions better, which reduces fade during sustained towing. The choice depends on your usage and whether you prioritize thermal stability and consistent damping under heavy loads.
Can I replace shocks myself and what should I watch for?
Many owners with basic mechanical skills can replace shocks if they have proper tools and follow torque specs. Ensure correct bushing orientation, replace worn mounting hardware, and confirm shock length and travel especially if the truck has aftermarket suspension changes.
Final Verdict
When choosing shock absorbers for a 2017-2022 Ford F-350, prioritize units that match the truck's towing and payload demands while offering durable construction and good heat management. Balance damping that resists bottoming under load with adequate rebound control to prevent oscillation and preserve steering feel.Consider front and rear fitment together, inspect mounts and bushings during replacement, and pick a valving profile that reflects how you use the truck. That approach will deliver the most consistent handling and longest service life for your F-350's suspension.
