Question about shock lengths

[socal_rob]

After years of obsessing over all things techie, I'm now trying to learn more about my Jeep - from a nuts-n-bolts perspective...so please excuse my novice question.

I have a Skyjacker Single Flex 4" lift kit on my 1999 TJ. I'm pretty happy with the kit overall. I've read a lot of negative things about Skyjacker, but my lift has treated me quite well so far. That said, I probably haven't pushed the limits off-road, but I hope to get to that soon!

The two complaints I have about my lift are that it's a bit squirrely in the front, especially when accelerating quickly or braking sharply. I've posted about that problem here and the consensus seems to be that Skyjacker's trackbar sucks. So, I'm looking into changing that.

The other complaint I have is a rather "floaty" ride. Someone (again here) suggested that I check into the Rancho RS9000X shocks. I had them on my TJ before I lifted it and loved them. However, I'm not really certain if they will fit my lifted TJ. Can someone please give me a little primer on shocks and how to select the right ones for one's ride?

I called Skyjacker and asked for the extended and compressed length of the Nitro shocks I have on my TJ:

24 3/4" Extended (Front)
24 3/4" Extended (Rear)

14 1/2" Compressed (Front)
14 3/4" Compressed (Rear)

I then spoke with someone at Rancho about their shock lengths. Nothing matches up. The compressed length is either greater or the extended length is shorter than the Nitros. What does this mean exactly? Do these lengths have to match up? It would seem to me that the compressed length is maybe more important than the extended one? Am I totally wrong?

I know this is probably very elementary stuff, but I'd greatly appreciate a bit of education on this stuff. Thanks very much!

-Rob

 

[TwistedCU]

Since you have the measurements from your existing shocks to go on (assuming that size has worked fine for you)...

If you want to play it safe when buying new shocks, just make sure the compressed length is equal to or less than your current shocks and that the extended length is equal to or more than your current shocks. This will ensure they are not going to either bottom out or limit downward wheel travel.

 

[socal_rob]

If you want to play it safe when buying new shocks, just make sure the compressed length is equal to or less than your current shocks and that the extended length is equal to or more than your current shocks. This will ensure they are not going to either bottom out or limit downward wheel travel.

Thanks very much for the feedback. What if I can't find a shock that matches up? Would I be better off going with a shorter extended length or longer compressed length? I'm guessing the former???

For example, my shocks are 24 3/4" extended and 14 1/2" compressed. The Rancho RS9000X are 23 1/8" extended and 14 1/2" compressed. If I used these, what would be the downside? Limit my downward wheel travel by an inch or so? Is that critical?

Another RS9000X model has an extended length of 24" (3/4" less than my current Nitros) and a compressed length of 15", 1/2" greater than my current Nitros. It seems to me that a greater compressed length than what I have now is a bad idea, correct? However, would 1/2" make a big difference or cause any serious problems?

Thanks for the feedback and guidance!

-Rob

 

[Junkpile]

Remove the shocks and cycle your suspension. Take measurements at both extremes, fully compressed and fully extended, and you will have a better idea of what you need.

I'd worry more about not limiting the droop. You can compensate for a longer collapsed length with bumstops if needed. You probably aren't fully cycling the shocks that are on there now, so a slight variation in collapsed or extended length might not make any difference at all.

 

[socal_rob]

Remove the shocks and cycle your suspension. Take measurements at both extremes, fully compressed and fully extended, and you will have a better idea of what you need.

I warned you at the beginning of the thread that I'm quite a novice when it comes to this stuff. What do you mean by "cycle your suspension"? Since you've suggested that I take measurements for both compressed and extended lengths, I have a pretty good idea of what you're talking about...but a bit more of an explanation would be much appreciated!

Thanks,
Rob

 

[Junkpile]

And to add another point, you never want your shocks limiting travel in any direction. If you're bottoming out shocks, extend the bumstops---If the problem is overextension, then get some limiting straps.......or different shocks. You can relocate shock mounts fairly easily too.

 

[Junkpile]

exactly what you are thinking. just get it twisted up until you lift a tire. I'm lazy and just use the forklift if I'm at the shop.