4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: Rear suspension, bump stops, isuzu trooper

Question
I have a 94 Isuzu Trooper 124,000 miles and the rear end bottoms out very easy over bumps. The original shocks that was fine by me was replaced twice since 80,000 from Mavis. I got the car ar 55,000. Each time I thought the new ones were no good. The last time I was told they were heavy duty SUV shocks. Is it possible for the rear springs to wear out and need replacing or just needs good shocks or struts like my mechanic said and not from Mavis? I do tow a trailor alot. And what is the difference of shocks and struts? Thanks Tim

Answer
Tim,

It is possible for springs to start sagging due to normal wear, and fatigue.  A good brand shock will usually last longer, and help in your situation.  A gas loaded shock will help, also.  

Most vehicles have rubber pads fastened to the frame area, just above the axle housings.  The reason for these, is to stop the harsh bump you get when the springs do bottom out.  They are called bump stops, and they may be missing, or worn out.  Since you tow a trailer, you should replace the shocks with a heavy duty, or over load type of shock.  

The difference between shocks, and struts, is that in a strut type of suspension, the shock is incorporated as a component of the strut, whereas a suspension that has shocks, the shocks are independent of the suspension components, such as the springs.

Carl