I purchased a high mileage '05 Montero last month and am a bit disappointed with how rough it handles potholes and speed bumps. I have also driven 6 or 8 miles on some washboard gravel roads and it rides harsh. I thought the unibody construction would make a softer ride. I figure I could change the shocks--but I rarely notice any difference on previous vehicles (except the hit my wallet takes). Anybody had any luck with suspension components to make the ride more comfortable? I don't plan any 'technical' offroading, just dirt and gravel forest roads in Oregon--but mostly pavement.

Thanks

 

I have ran the KYB replacement oem shock in rear and struts up front and am very pleased with the ride, remember to run your tire pressure around 35 psi, this too will help with ride comfort.

 

Did you change the front coil springs? I'd like to make the ride softer. What about any of the front suspension bushings?

Thanks

 

NO, I didnt change any of the springs or bushings, all looked in good shape. all still stock. Another cause of a rougher ride would be if your axles are wearing out. Any clicking noise in sharp turns?