I drive a 1994 Mazda B-4000 with 104000 miles on the ticker. How can I determine if the shocks need replacement? There is no visible leakage. I unbolted one of the front shocks, but the pressure charge prevented me from operating it by hand to check for looseness. I know the old routine of jumping up and down on the bumpers, but is that really a good way to tell? I don't have any noticible problems, but I wonder what the life expectancy of shocks is, considering the mileage on the truck. Oh, yes, if I do decide to replace them, what type and brand would you folks recommend? This is a 2WD vehicle used only on good paved roads and infrequently heavily loaded.

no engine or trans. i want to go v6 2wd. i have been looking at junk yards any tips on what engine and trans. can go in the truck . i need a picture of the 85 4x4 auto trans.,so i can try to match it up with one at junkb yards. thnks. mtn berry:confused: