what are the advantages to changing the rear shocks and is this something i can tackle myself?

 

I'm sure it would be an improvement over stock. Simply unbolt the stockers and bolt on the new ones. Takes 10 mins tops - simple to do. You don't need to jack the truck up or anything.

 

Any aftermarket shocks will be better than stock....

 

I agree the rancho's are a good shock have had them before and the truck rode great.

 

I have Rancho RS9000XL on the rear and I can tell you that it's a major improvement over stock. Valving is adjustable, so you can dial it in until it's just right. It's money well spent. Only problem is that you'll realize you now have to change out the fronts, too