How do I KNOW I need new shocks?

[tRidiot]

No, the fronts are crumbling and 50% gone. Or more.

 

[BacDoc]

I’m not a mechanic but the most important thing to me reading your description is the sag/squat you notice. As someone who has towed a lot with trucks and vans I can tell you that the best setup is for very little to no noticeable sag once you hook up to trailer. Maybe Im just conservative but if you have noticeable drop when hooked up you either have minimal suspension or the load is too heavy for your truck - basically the same thing

 

[tRidiot]

I will agree it's probably not optimal... But my shocks are good (the Bilstein 5100s I put in) and springs are good. Someone suggested airbags... There's no way I'm going to that expense on this old truck. I'm just trying to limp it along another couple of years until finances allow me to get something else. (sigh)