How can you tell when shocks need replacing?

This must sound like a really basic question ... for cars you just push the fender down, and see if the car bounces.

But for my Z71 (2000), I'm not so sure this is the way too tell ... it seems like the suspension is so stiff, that even if the shocks were bad, you wouldn't get that same bounce as you would with a car.

So what is the right way to check the shocks?

Thanks

check for leaks once and awile and put 70 to 80,000 miles on it before you worry about the shocks. any change in suspension feel you will notice...JJ

If you start getting airborne on I-94 going through michigan, it´s definetly time for new shocks

If you start getting airborne on I-94 going through michigan, it´s definetly time for new shocks

Ha. Sounds like 94 might be as crappy a freeway in Michigan as it is here in San Diego. The residents down here sport "I drive I-94" bumber stickers like they are badges of courage.

So what y'all are saying is...replace after 80K? I have 97K on mine now, do they need replacing? I've never worried about it, but if its time..ya know..

If you can, get behind the wheel of a newer truck with real low mileage. You'll feel the difference in the ride even if you only have 30k on yours! Of course, there are other factors involved like tires, springs, etc... But still we tend to get used to the way our trucks ride and getting into a newer one is a good reminder as to how they're supposed to feel.

I think I'll upgrade to the Edelbrock Performer IAS next..

Since the shock question was posed I have one as well. If my rear end feels like it shimmy's a lot and moves around sometimes would that be the shocks as well. I know I need some, just trying to see if what its doing is caused from the shocks.

Have a friend drive behind you when you go through a speed reducer or a really bumpy road, when you fell it´s doing the shimmying see if the wheels are airborne, if they are the truck is crying for new shocks. If your ass is all over the place (when turning) it´s a real good sign too.

Have a friend drive behind you when you go through a speed reducer or a really bumpy road, when you fell it´s doing the shimmying see if the wheels are airborne, if they are the truck is crying for new shocks. If your ass is all over the place (when turning) it´s a real good sign too.

Hmm..I don't think I've ever heard it put quite like that..

yeah, all you need is 1 inch off the ground for about 1/4 of a second, the shock should get that wheel touching the ground immediately, specially doing 15-20 on a washboard surface, maybe I´m not saying it right though...

Works for me :)