Thread: Rough Ride ( Suspension Help )

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Shock absorbers are simply linear de-acceleration devices, you just use the shock that has the correct compression and extension measurements for the suspension travel. For instance, with 4 inches of suspension travel, total up and down, you might use a shock with 5 inches of travel and install it with the rod pulled out 55% of its total travel (5 times .55 = 2 3/4"), so the shock would have 2 3/4" in bump and 2 1/4" in droop. Use any 5" travel shock, no matter the shock length. Fabricate the shock mounts yourself with the vehicle resting on its tires at ride height. A drive-on lift works well for doing the measuring and welding of the mounts.

TIP: Once you have the shock extended to the install length, cut a piece of fuel line rubber hose, about 3/4" long, slit it lengthwise and curl it around the shock piston rod right at the shock body. Wrap a worm screw clamp around the hose and tighten it down. This will allow the shock to remain at the install height so you don't change the length accidentally and make an error in the mounts. Ask me why I do it this way.

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