Shocks question

Could anyone tell me what I should be looking for to see if my shocks need replacing? I just bought a 2001 Durango 4x4 with 59K on it and when I go over speed bumps or off of an incline at the supermaket, things don't seem right. The durango makes some awful noise. I looked at the shocks, but I have no idea what to look for and when to replace them. THanks.

A quick test is to leanon the bumper with all your weight, then release it quickly, the bumper should come up and stop, not up & down then stop. also look for leakage the shocks should be dry.

A quick test is to leanon the bumper with all your weight, then release it quickly, the bumper should come up and stop, not up & down then stop. also look for leakage the shocks should be dry.


Shrkarx2-

Thanks for your reply. I did your test and the shocks are fine. However, I did take it to the shop and the front ball joints are bad. Thanks again.