I am a newbie and did some searches but did not see exactly what I am looking for.

My '99 XJ has 160,000 miles. The ride feels like a bucket of loose bolts. I live in SE Iowa and our roads are crap. I feel every small bump when driving.

I am planning on changing all four shocks. What other suspension related items should I check? I am able to do the work, I just need some guidance from the experts here on where to start my search.

If there is a standard 'list' that makes sense to go through in order, I am all for it.

Thanks for the help - Rogiecrockett.

All suspension components. Start with the front end, all joints and connections and work your way back. While doing this, don't forget to check your transmission, transfer and motor mounts as well.
I just recently had a Rough Country 3" Series II lift with all new Nitro 9000 shocks and after the lift, I checked some things out myself since I really don't trust many people working on my vehicles unless they are helping me. During my inspection I found that the ball joint end of my track bar was shot, which I would have thought the company the installed my lift would have checked to include the shop I took it to for the alignment and no one informed me about it. That being said, just inspect everything. If you aren't sure how to check, this forum has a few great write ups as to what to look for or maybe find someone local to you that is willig to assist.

Good Luck.

Dude, you bought a Jeep if you wanted something with a car like ride you should have gotten a car. It's a Jeep you will feel EVERY bump in the road. You will also find out how good your dental work was performed during pothole season.

One way to smooth out your ride a bit is to not run as much psi. in your tires. I was running 20 lbs. in my old tires. it will wear your tires uneven though. Give and take situation there.

a well instilled long arm system and good shocks go a long way but your looking at 3k in parts alone

This.

I will be replacing my shocks this spring. The 'Reflex' shocks on now are pretty dang stiff. From what I've read the Sensa Trac are popular shocks with the xj owners looking for a comfort ride.

x2 on the sensa trac shocks just had all replaced on my 00 xj handles the bumps better now more of a pleasure to drive country roads my 2 cts.