shocks -actual experience please

Need softer ride -currently using monroe 13 inch travel shocks for a F350 on my 46 2a fiberglass body, 34 inch bias ply swampers, yj BDS 2.5 inch rear springs and yj bastard pack up front. wheelbase streched a bit - I think it is 88 now. 70% off road (colorado mtns), 30% on road but not anything over 55 mph. Ride is pretty stiff on and off road unless air down to 12 psi or less. I know I bought shocks for a much heavier vehicle but $120 for 4 13 inch shocks is cheap. Thinking maybe using King Smootie 12 inch travel oil shocks. Anyone have any real experience with these or other similar? Can I achieve a comfortable ride at 30 psi? Will just the basic Emulsion shocks suffice? Do I spend the extra to get piggy back or remote resevoir? Any ideas to purchase for less than $1200? Are shocks that costly really worth it for my usage?
Thanks for any help

 

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I don't have experience with those particular shocks you mention, but I do have experience with a fiberglass body on a jeep. The ride was horrible after I changed the body. The issue in my case was weight - the unsprung weight on your jeep (and mine) due to the tires is a lot. But the weight actually riding on the springs is less than stock, I think, with the fiberglass body I used. When I added some heavy accessories, such as a metal tool box full of stuff, a winch, jack, jerry can, etc., the ride actually got much better. Even with the tires at around 30 psi.

I know this isn't the answer you were hoping to get, but perhaps it will help some. I wouldn't spend all that money on new shocks - don't think it will net the results you are after. Smaller made-for-a-jeep shocks may help some, but solving the weight issue may do more for you.

 

I'd recommend some adjustable shocks like rancho rs 9000's or something similar unless desert racing no reason for remote reservoir shocks.your current shocks are valves for a much heavier vehicle as you noted and that is your current problem. The shocks need matched to the weight of the vehicle, usage, and the unsprung weight. Bounce AND rebound come into play for proper handling and ride. No reason to spend super big bucks to get what you need
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Love my RS-9000's on my cj3b. Went with some monroes form my Local auto parts for my dads 67 and they seam to be ok as well. Don't use Rancho RS-5000's, too stiff.

 

2x-although they have been on mine for about a decade.

 

Either adjustable or regular car/light truck shocks. Regular shocks will hold up as long as your not beating them to death and over heating them. Heavy duties take a long time to even warm up.

 

So I maybe should have titled this smoother softer ride. In talking with a seemingly knowledgeable Fox shock dealer he thought shocks were not the main reason for stiff ride. Sprung too stiff. SO now thinking Dakota leafs. Anyone have any experience and which exact ones to use?

 

My springs (originals) are so stiff, I don't think my shocks are doing any thing at all.

RS5000 on all four corners. My 250 pound next door neighbor can jump up and down on the trailer hitch and they don't even budge.

 

If the stock springs are otherwise fine, why not just rebuild them and remove a leaf or two? I did this and was incredibly happy with the results.