[scubacat]

After 3 sets of monroes and one of KYBs, I finally gave up and went back to motorcraft. BIG difference. I reused the front springs and strut mounts off of the most recent KYB "ready strut" assemblies. For the rear, I recommend replacing the springs with the Moog variable rate springs for a better ride. Rock auto and other retailers sell the OEM motorcraft shocks and struts for really not that much more than after market (especially considering the improved ride and longevity.) The rear shocks came with all new fasteners and J-hook thingies, and the front struts not only came with new fasteners but also a new OEM boot and bump stop.

Tip: Ford actually calls the front struts "shock absorbers" in their parts catalog. Rock Auto and other retailers will have them under the "shocks" category, not the struts, so if you don't see them at first, look carefully under shocks.