What position should shocks be installed in?
What position should shocks be installed in?
We would suggest mounting the shocks on the rear on the original upper mounts and mounting the bottom of the shocks about 1″ to 1 1/2″ in from the inner u-bolts and at the bottom level of the axle tube with about 2″ to 3″ of up travel.
What angle do you mount shocks?
You want the top and bottom shock mounts as close as possible to the arc that the suspended end (the axle) would normally travel when it hits a bump. Normally, this is pretty close to vertical, but with the top end leaning inboard ~5-10 degrees.
Where is the height of a shock supposed to be?
Ride height is supposed to be in the middle of the shock travel length, so we’re able to see how much travel you should have in both directions at the given height. Find a part number somewhere on the shock, this isn’t always feasible, but as a last resort it could help out.
Can you tell the length of a car shock?
Shocks aren’t universal in length or fitment. Lifted trucks have longer shocks than factory height trucks. This isn’t such an issue figuring out strut or shock lengths on passenger car vehicles, 99% of the time its going to be factory length parts.
What should I know before replacing shocks and struts?
The cause of the damage should be identified and corrected prior to replacing shocks or struts. Most suspensions incorporate some type of rubber suspension stops called “jounce” and “rebound” bumpers. These bumpers protect the shock or strut from damage due to topping or bottoming.
How can I tell if I need to replace my shock absorber?
One of the best ways to determine if a shock needs replacement is to perform the jounce test. Simply bounce the front or rear end of your rig by jumping or pushing up and down on it for a few seconds, then let off. If your rig continues to pogo for more than 1 to 1.5 bounces, you may need to replace your shocks.
How can you tell if your shocks need to be replaced?
You may notice a “nose-diving” sensation as well as instability while braking. If you feel a lurch forward while braking, you’ll need to have your struts and shocks checked out by a mechanic. While often strut damage is better felt than seen, you might notice visibly dented or damaged struts or shocks.
What happens when you install new shocks and struts?
First, a new set of shocks and struts needs to be broken in just like anything else. Though most springs get tested in the factory, most likely your shocks have never had any serious weight on them until the first time you drive on them. This means the amount of “give” in the shocks will gradually increase over time.
What should I do when installing a new shock absorber?
When installing new shocks, the goal is to tighten them just enough that there is no play or chattering in the suspension over bumps. But not so much that it adds any noticeable resistance to the shock’s pivot points. After adjusting the tension on each bolt, bounce the suspension by hand.
Do you need new shocks with a leveling kit?
Some leveling kits utilize new performance shocks as part of the kit. If your stock shocks are worn out and you plan to drive like this, they should be replaced when you install a suspension leveling kit. Do I Need New Shocks? Not all leveling kits require new shocks. The least expensive kits often retain the factory shocks.
