I got my Ranchos in 2002 or 2003 and I've had no problems with them. I run mine on max level 9 and get 90% stock perfomance in swift turns. IMO better than stock if you like some comfort. At level 9 full on stifness, the ride is way more comfortable than stock. I like Rancho better than stock. Cheaper &better than stock IMO with more options than "Max Bone Jarring"
As for the rust, never had a problem with that, but then I have been known to wash and wax my shocksWhy? because I live in MD where the salt level sometimes exceeds the snowfall
so I know to wash the under carriage to keep things from rusting.