We have had many customers ask what shocks are best when it comes to there project vehicle, trail rig or the simple daily driver. We have broken down the shocks into a few basic categories followed with a brief description of the need to know information, when choosing the shocks that is right for you.
Things to remember when choosing a certain type of shock for your application.
SHOCK TYPE:
Non-coil shocks: Higher performance shocks allow the ability to customize suspension dampening to suit street, race, and recreation applications. Non-coil shocks are available for several types of high performance automotive applications that are suitable for universal-fit shock absorbers.
Coil-over shocks: feature a threaded body and dual-stage spring mounting hardware. When optional coil springs are installed, you can adjust vehicle ride height, suspension preload and travel.
OE replacement shocks: provide the quality and performance of a professional racing shock in a convenient factory-fit, bolt-on design. Perfect for upgrading aftermarket lift kits or factory shocks.
Bypass shocks: offer the highest level of damping customization for the most demanding off-road racing conditions. Damping performance can be externally adjusted in a matter of seconds for immediate results.
Air shocks: are an economical coil-over alternative that not only dampens, but also suspends your lightweight off-road vehicle without the need for additional springs.
Hydraulic bump stops: are compact, secondary shocks that soften harsh suspension impacts caused by bottoming out.
RESERVOIR:
Emulsion: shocks utilize a combination of oil and Nitrogen gas contained within the shock body. They are more economical than external reservoir shocks due to the simplicity of design. Emulsion shocks are ideal for light-duty or street applications, although not recommended for high speed driving in off-road conditions. They should be mounted as close to vertical as possible.
Internal floating piston: shocks are identical to emulsion shocks with one exception. A floating piston located within the shock body keeps the oil and Nitrogen gas separated. This allows the shock to be mounted at an angle, and to perform more efficiently than emulsion shocks.
Piggy back: shocks feature a fixed external reservoir for increased oil volume. An internal floating piston separates the oil from the Nitrogen gas, allowing the shock to be mounted at any angle with no detrimental effect on performance. Piggy back shocks are well suited for both street applications and off-road use.
Remote reservoir: shocks benefit from a large external reservoir that offers the greatest oil volume. The fluids are separated by a floating piston which allows the shock to be mounted at any angle. Oil flows freely between the shock body and reservoir through a flexible high pressure hose, providing excellent heat dissipation.
Remote reservoir and piggy back shocks are the best choice for off-road vehicles that are frequently exposed to sustained high-speed driving in harsh conditions.
PISTON ROD:
The piston rod diameter should be matched to the desired duty rating. A larger diameter rod will provide greater resistance to compression forces, although cost and weight will also increase. 5/8" Diameter rods are the standard size for most 2.0" shocks, and recommended for light-duty and street applications. 7/8" Diameter rods are optional for most 2.0" shocks and standard for all 2.5" designs excluding air shocks. The 7/8" rod is best suited for street and medium-duty off-road applications. 1" Diameter rods are standard on all 3.0" and 3.75" shocks, and ideal for heavy-duty off-road applications and extreme terrain. 1-1/4" Diameter rods are only available on 2.0" air shocks and hydraulic bump stops. 1-5/8" Diameter rods are only available on 2.5" air shocks.
Post CommentYou must login to post comments.
 |
 See All » |
 |
|
Eastside Custom Truck (ECT) has been serving the Pacific Northwest region for nearly 20 years. As the trends in the 4x4 off-road and truck accessory market have made many changes over the years, so have the names and faces of ECT. Our commitment remains the same to provide outstanding customer service to the 4x4 truck and off-road enthusiast. We take pride in helping "you," our customer to determine what products will work best for your custom vehicle, your budget, and your unique style. From daily drivers to rock crawlers we understand that each vehicle is uniquely yours, and we strive to help you build just that, "your custom truck." |
