ARB BP51 By Pass Shocks now available.

[Baytown]

Ok, these are now available for our 110s and 130s.
The down side for heavy vehicles is that due to their long travel, they raise the Defender 50mm, requiring the use of double Cardin prop shafts.
Now for the price, $6,000 for the lesser diameter prop shaft, $8,000 for the larger diameter HD prop shaft!
Wow!
I may not need different springs as I have HD Kings already fitted, so if I only require the smaller diameter prop shaft, I’m only up for that and the shocks and their fitting kit.
probably longer braided brake lines as well.
My Terrafirmas are leaking after nearly 90,000kms on my heavy 110, so I’m happy with their service and it’s tome to replace them.
I really don’t know if I want to spend $6,000 on the ARB units and required prop shaft mod, or go with Komi Raids.
Would the By Pass shock be that much better? They are Shock Absorber porn you must admit!
Decisions decisions.
comments welcome.

Ken
146106

[rick130]

You can save a bucket load of coin by getting Tom Wood to make a DC shaft, or Hardy Spicer here.
I haven't priced a TW DC shaft for a while but they can be landed for well under A$1000.

[Slunnie]

Are these bypass shocks or remote canisters?

[DiscoClax]

Internal ByPass. Hence the BP in the name. 51 = 2" bore. Made in Australia. Nice bit of gear.

[Red90]

Wow. What a rip off. 1310 DC shafts are $400US off the shelf every day.

What about all of the other required parts like brake lines, spring retainers and bump stops?

[Vern]

Wow. What a rip off. 1310 DC shafts are $400US off the shelf every day.

What about all of the other required parts like brake lines, spring retainers and bump stops?Knowing arb, the shock probably isn't even that long. They generally only cater for a 2" lift.
They are very nice shocks though.

[Baytown]

Are these bypass shocks or remote canisters?

By Pass.

[Baytown]

146111146112146113146114146115146116

[Marty90]

I don't remember seeing prices like that for dc prop shafts. Just buy the gear and get them fitted somewhere else.

[weeds]

A lot of coin.......

I did mine awhile ago

HD defender front springs
Superior engineering remote adjustable shocks and towers.
Didn’t need bump stops spacers.
Shock mount to mount measured to select correct

Probably spent $1200 ish.

I mounted my shock outside tower and probably need 0 offset rims as the tyre rubs on the shock. If shock ms were inside than no new rims required.

The ARB shock ls would only just be long enough, with sway bar fitted they would be OK.

Not sure why you need bump stop spacers the the closed measurement should easily accommodate the springs and shocks.

Either way I’m sure it’s a nice kit.....but sadly out of my budget.

[Baytown]

Hi Weeds.
Thanks for the info, but suspension is one area I’m not experienced in mucking around with.
Ill talk with Justin when I get my Defender serviced here in Tassie soon (just caught up buying a home at present) and will post back here.
It seems that the best option is to source the prop start from non ARB supplier, use my own HD springs if suitable and go with the BP51 shocks.
That will keep it to under $4K.
Bestwishes fellas.

Ken


A lot of coin.......

I did mine awhile ago

HD defender front springs
Superior engineering remote adjustable shocks and towers.
Didn’t need bump stops spacers.
Shock mount to mount measured to select correct

Probably spent $1200 ish.

I mounted my shock outside tower and probably need 0 offset rims as the tyre rubs on the shock. If shock ms were inside than no new rims required.

The ARB shock ls would only just be long enough, with sway bar fitted they would be OK.

Not sure why you need bump stop spacers the the closed measurement should easily accommodate the springs and shocks.

Either way I’m sure it’s a nice kit.....but sadly out of my budget.

[weeds]

Totally understand Ken......I’d say Justin will have some good advice as well.....

After my latest work on my defer I’m convinced it way better to take actual measurements (closed/open) between shock mounts than select the correct shock to suit....hence why ARB provide bump stop spacers.....just thinking they could be reducing the bump stop height.

Some will say the shock needs valving to suit a defer but I would question how many off the shelf kits have valving specific.

Even with the adjustable superior engineering shocks I’m bigger if I can notice much difference between the settings.

Either way ARB suspension is pretty good quality and they will there or abouts in setup.

[Vern]

Weeds revalve your superior shocks like I have, then you will notice the difference, they are way under valved on the rebound side.
Anyway, back on topic. I looked at the bp51 a few years ago, but unfortunately weren't available for landrovers, could have used 80 series cruiser ones but calving wasn't adequate

[weeds]

Weeds revalve your superior shocks like I have, then you will notice the difference, they are way under valved on the rebound side.
Anyway, back on topic. I looked at the bp51 a few years ago, but unfortunately weren't available for landrovers, could have used 80 series cruiser ones but calving wasn't adequate

They were re valved by Ben, no matter what the valving is I thought I would notice a difference.

Either way the riding nice on 2

[Vern]

They were re valved by Ben, no matter what the valving is I thought I would notice a difference.

Either way the riding nice on 2Sorry, I thought you referring to using 80 series superior shocks in a landy with cruiser valving, that you wouldn't know the difference between their valving and landy valving.

[martnH]

I read a bit about the bypass shocks. They offer multiple stages of dampening

I think these will be most beneficial in racing, ie flying in the dunes (80km/h) or multiple speed bumps in the city (at ,say, more than 60

In my defender never get that kind of rapid and long suspension travel....

[DazzaTD5]

Hi Weeds.
Thanks for the info, but suspension is one area I’m not experienced in mucking around with.
Ill talk with Justin when I get my Defender serviced here in Tassie soon (just caught up buying a home at present) and will post back here.
It seems that the best option is to source the prop start from non ARB supplier, use my own HD springs if suitable and go with the BP51 shocks.
That will keep it to under $4K.
Bestwishes fellas.

Ken

You answered part of the questions in my head, one being "oh is he is some sort of nut job and wants a mega awesome suspension and has run out of things to spend money on his Defender, then sure, $8K, you could buy another Defender"

*BUT above you sort of point away from both wanting a "mega awesome" and having endless funds available.
*So you mentioned you had Terrafirma before and was happy with that, so go again?
*Plenty of members here also swear by Koni.
*If your use isnt extreme bluh bluh, then I'd be looking for a suspension kit or part of that is $2500 or under, I think is a reasonable budget.

*If the suspension is going to be your next "project baby" then sure, but I suspect you could go a lot better than ARB, a lot more extreme than ARB and still do it cheaper than ARB. Fox shocks are popular with some of the Jeep nutters.

[DazzaTD5]

I mention Koni, possibly ment Bilstein, but both have a good rep.

I said suspension as "project baby", one such example is member here Slunnie
www.slunnie.com - Aussie Built Rovers (http://www.slunnie.com/D2.htm)

Clearly has spent a lot of time, effort and a reasonable amount of money (but I'm guessing way less than $8K).
There must be a "slunnie" type driving a Defender here somewhere.....

[rick130]

I read a bit about the bypass shocks. They offer multiple stages of dampening

I think these will be most beneficial in racing, ie flying in the dunes (80km/h) or multiple speed bumps in the city (at ,say, more than 60

In my defender never get that kind of rapid and long suspension travel....

Pretty much nailed it.

Most people don't drive in a way to exploit the characteristic of the damper, and generally speaking a linear valved damper is enough for most as the damping forces increase with increasing shaft velocity anyway. ie. the bigger the hit the faster the shaft is moving.

[DiscoClax]

I never really understood the desire for a by-pass shock until I experienced them first hand. I've spent a fair bit of time in US Raptors, and was involved in locally-engineering its little brother as well. The improvement to ride comfort is extraordinary. Even on crappy cart spring rear ends (US one). Try holding two cups of hot coffee and getting the driver to punch up a set of extreme moguls at maximum attack - ask me how I know this... (crested at over 100km/hr, no spills). Now that's the Fox internal by-pass Shocks we are talking specifically there but a quality by-pass is quite comparable irrespective of brand or internal or external. The BP-51s have a ridiculous amount adjustability for for both rebound and jounce, and the 'softness' and compliance in the middle of the shock travel makes the vehicle so much less fatiguing to drive big distances. That, and you still have the ultimate control for big-hits with a progressive stop and no crash-through. And, of course, great body control. Due to cost they really aren't for everyone and either the value equation is there for you or it isn't. Personally I got a heads-up mid year that ARB were developing these for the Defo and immediately cancelled my Koni Raid order to wait for them. The Koni Raids will do the job, day-in and day-out no matter what you throw at them and are industrial quality. Bypass shocks means you get that and a level of comfort and plushness you'd think was impossible to achieve. Plus they have some really nice innovation and engineering in their design (have a look at one in bits or a cut-away) and are entirely Australian engineered and manufactured. Ridiculous price for what it costs to make them, but that's driven by market forces and they are comparable to other products so why not? A couple of years ago if you asked me if I'd throw $2.5k at a set of shocks for the D1 I would have scoffed at you (at best), and yet here I am likely to do just that. I guess I'm saying that you should experience them before writing them off. My 2c.

[86mud]

Wow is an understatement.

I'll stick with my Koni Raids thanks.....

[Vern]

Wow is an understatement.

I'll stick with my Koni Raids thanks.....Personally I would spend the $150 more per shock and go the bp51 over the raid, it's a whole new level.

[Slunnie]

Personally I would spend the $150 more per shock and go the bp51 over the raid, it's a whole new level.

I agree, the Raids are several generations of shock design development behind these.

[Red90]

$150? These are $643 each plus a $150 fitting kit.. Raids are $300 each.

For $800 a shock, I would be getting proper shocks with custom valving that are tuned specifically for your own truck.

[DiscoClax]

$150? These are $643 each plus a $150 fitting kit.. Raids are $300 each.

For $800 a shock, I would be getting proper shocks with custom valving that are tuned specifically for your own truck.

I don't believe that you can compare Raids and the BP-51s directly. The Raids are proven old-tech, basic, unsophisticated, bullet-proof and only slightly adjustable and will ride pretty stiff irrespective. The BP-51s are latest-gen, very sophisticated, fully adjustable in small increments for both jounce and rebound and will have ride comfort you can't even imagine... but the bullet-proof-ness is yet to be determined in the real world. ARB can't claim any Dakar pedigree on these... Even Koni describe the Raid's as unsophisticated and heavy-duty, they are a blunt object. Comparing chalk and cheese here. If you want the simple ruggedness of a Koni Raid, then that's for you. If you want a shock that does so very much more and are willing to pay more to get that, then the BP-51s are for you. I'm not buying or selling here, it really depends on what you want to get out of the set up. For me (D1) I want to maintain and improve the ride quality so I'm not getting hammered to bits and suffering fatigue when travelling, also I can have light-load and fully-loaded configurations I can set in a few minutes without tools or disassembly, and fine-tune if required on the fly easily. So my ride and control is the same if I'm empty or maxxed out or anywhere inbetween. Rear airbags plus fully adjustable BP shocks will do that.

The fitting kits include things like open cage front towers (to get the remote reservoir line through), rear bump stop extensions and rear upper eye-to-pin mount conversions so some of those may or may not apply depending on what you've already done to your truck. The eye-to-pin is a common recommendation to de-stress the shock when articulating and most 'long-travel' kits include that requirement. I already have bump stop extensions due to bigger tyres, so that's no pain for me. The front towers you could probably achieve with a hole saw and grommet... It would have been nice if they offered an eye-pin rear configuration as well as a straight drop-in, but perhaps they saw issues due to the side-loading? It's where I broke my last shock.

Koni Raid 90s for $300 each? Can you provide details as that sounds like a pretty sharp price? Best I found was around $800 for a pair delivered. The 90s are still on my back-up list in case the specs of the BP51s don't match what I need (travel, etc).

[Vern]

$150? These are $643 each plus a $150 fitting kit.. Raids are $300 each.

For $800 a shock, I would be getting proper shocks with custom valving that are tuned specifically for your own truck.Koni raid 90 for a landy here are approx $500 each.

[rick130]

I never really understood the desire for a by-pass shock until I experienced them first hand. I've spent a fair bit of time in US Raptors, and was involved in locally-engineering its little brother as well. The improvement to ride comfort is extraordinary. Even on crappy cart spring rear ends (US one). Try holding two cups of hot coffee and getting the driver to punch up a set of extreme moguls at maximum attack - ask me how I know this... (crested at over 100km/hr, no spills). Now that's the Fox internal by-pass Shocks we are talking specifically there but a quality by-pass is quite comparable irrespective of brand or internal or external. The BP-51s have a ridiculous amount adjustability for for both rebound and jounce, and the 'softness' and compliance in the middle of the shock travel makes the vehicle so much less fatiguing to drive big distances. That, and you still have the ultimate control for big-hits with a progressive stop and no crash-through. And, of course, great body control. Due to cost they really aren't for everyone and either the value equation is there for you or it isn't. Personally I got a heads-up mid year that ARB were developing these for the Defo and immediately cancelled my Koni Raid order to wait for them. The Koni Raids will do the job, day-in and day-out no matter what you throw at them and are industrial quality. Bypass shocks means you get that and a level of comfort and plushness you'd think was impossible to achieve. Plus they have some really nice innovation and engineering in their design (have a look at one in bits or a cut-away) and are entirely Australian engineered and manufactured. Ridiculous price for what it costs to make them, but that's driven by market forces and they are comparable to other products so why not? A couple of years ago if you asked me if I'd throw $2.5k at a set of shocks for the D1 I would have scoffed at you (at best), and yet here I am likely to do just that. I guess I'm saying that you should experience them before writing them off. My 2c.


Damn.

You have me wanting to get some to play with now. [biggrin]

[Nick S]

I put a set of BP51s on the rear of my 130 to replace the Bilstien 7100 that I recently destroyed in the Kimberley. I used the long 80 series model as they didn’t have the landy ones out as yet. I already had Gwynn Lewis 2” extended mounts and bump stops. It’s great to be able to adjust the compression and rebound damping separately just like my KTM. My initial impression is that they are the best shocks I’ve had on the car. Better than Konis and even better than the Bilsteins. If they continue to perform as they have so far I’ll put some in the front too. I’m overseas at the moment so I’ll put up some pics when I’m home
Nick

[Red90]

Koni raid 90 for a landy here are approx $500 each.

It is 2018. I know you guys are used to being raped by the local distributors, but you do not have to let them get away with it. $300 is the normal price everywhere else in the world delivered to your door.

$255 AUD
Koni Heavy Track Raid Defender to WA159806, Discovery 1, Range Rover Classic - Paddock Spares (https://www.paddockspares.com/off-road/suspension/koni-heavy-track-raid/defender-to-wa159806-discovery-1-range-rover-classic.html)

[Slunnie]

I put a set of BP51s on the rear of my 130 to replace the Bilstien 7100 that I recently destroyed in the Kimberley. I used the long 80 series model as they didn’t have the landy ones out as yet. I already had Gwynn Lewis 2” extended mounts and bump stops. It’s great to be able to adjust the compression and rebound damping separately just like my KTM. My initial impression is that they are the best shocks I’ve had on the car. Better than Konis and even better than the Bilsteins. If they continue to perform as they have so far I’ll put some in the front too. I’m overseas at the moment so I’ll put up some pics when I’m home
Nick

I would have thought a pretty specific requirement for these shock would be to have the correct static ride height. Thats interesting to know that the LC shocks still work well in a Landy.

[Wicks89]

Digging up this thread again as I am investigating shocks.

I currently have TerraFirma Extreme Long Travels on my 130 and I'm looking for an upgrade. One of the key criteria I have is that the shocks are Australian Made, which excludes the big European and American names and leaves OME and Superior Engineering.

The concept of Internal ByPass shocks is very appealing to me. Given what everyone said in this thread (and only one posted had a set fitted to a vehicle, and rears only) does anyone have any more actual experience with the BP51s?

Are they the quantum Leap in performance they were touted to be?

Please let me know.

[Nick S]

Digging up this thread again as I am investigating shocks.

I currently have TerraFirma Extreme Long Travels on my 130 and I'm looking for an upgrade. One of the key criteria I have is that the shocks are Australian Made, which excludes the big European and American names and leaves OME and Superior Engineering.

The concept of Internal ByPass shocks is very appealing to me. Given what everyone said in this thread (and only one posted had a set fitted to a vehicle, and rears only) does anyone have any more actual experience with the BP51s?

Are they the quantum Leap in performance they were touted to be?

Please let me know.

G'day Wicks
I've just got home from a 8,000km Kimberley trip in my 130. The BP51s have been in the back with Flexi springs and airbags for about an additional 2000ks. The BP51s replaced a set of Bilstein 7100 remote res. Overall impression is that the BPs are great, I really like being able to adjust compression damping separately to the rebound damping. Found this to be handy when being loaded four touring. I can feel the bypass working when you hit undulating surface at speed. I'm a bit biased because I ride off road bikes and have always found 4x4 suspension really basic particularly when dealing with corrugations. When I bought mine the Land Rover BPs weren't available so I got 80 series LC 12" travel units (pin to pin) as I have Gwyn Davis top shock mounts in the back. I'm planning to change the fronts to BPs once the front Bilsteins croak but they are working well at the moment.
Hope this is of some help
Cheers
Nick

[Wicks89]

When you say you 'can feel the BPs working when you hit an undulating surface at speed'.. are we talking dips in the road or like washouts?

What I want is for the car not to bang like hell when I hit a washout at the end of bitumen for example, or like a cattle grid.

And to soak up corrugations.

My car is not usually heavily loaded, and I like to pack light. I have APT superflex coils all round.

[Nick S]

When you say you 'can feel the BPs working when you hit an undulating surface at speed'.. are we talking dips in the road or like washouts?

What I want is for the car not to bang like hell when I hit a washout at the end of bitumen for example, or like a cattle grid.

And to soak up corrugations.

My car is not usually heavily loaded, and I like to pack light. I have APT superflex coils all round.

More dips but the washouts are not too bad depending on speed. Congratulations are very dependent on a variety of factors such as tire pressure, load and the type of corrugated surface and it’s severity. Sorry I can’t be more specific

[Wicks89]

Thanks for the reply Nick, any info is good info at this stage as youre the only poster ive seen on this forum that actually has any so good to get your opinion!

[DiscoMick]

Have you checked the Dobinson and Terrain Tamer ranges to see if any of them would work for you?

[Wicks89]

Have you checked the Dobinson and Terrain Tamer ranges to see if any of them would work for you?

Hey Mick, yeah I've browsed the ranges of most Suspension manufacturers and even sent some emails to some of the smaller companies like Outback Armour and a couple of others, and no one has replied.

I think mostly because im asking for a shock based off a length and not the vehicle model. They just want to sell you the Land Rover shock, not a pin - pin shock of xx length.

The other factor is from what I know, the ARB BP51 is the only domestically produced Internal Bypass shock.

Everything else is basically the same technology (twin tube, or mono-tube, some remote reservoir) all designed to just dissipate heat fastest, or absorb the most heat to give consistent performance.

What is so appealing to me about the BP 51 is it's meant to essentially give you 2 shocks in 1, rides smooth over small bumps, and lets you hit a really big bump at speed without sending you bouncing into the bush. The only question is, does it?

Right now with my lame Terrafirma Shocks if I hit a washout accidentally feels like I've just sent the front diff through the sump, and I'm afraid one day it might.

The only other bypasses you can get are american and they are offroad racing application (think jumps and stuff).

If I don't go with the BP51 I will probably go with Superior Engineering Mono-Tube, maybe remote res. Based off customer service and price.

When you buy from Superior they send you the stuff you want and they bombard you with stickers etc etc. And you talk to people who are more than just a checkout person. You can ask for stuff thats a bit different and they are OK with it.

EDIT: If I'm wrong with any of the above please let me know!

[DiscoMick]

Hey Mick, yeah I've browsed the ranges of most Suspension manufacturers and even sent some emails to some of the smaller companies like Outback Armour and a couple of others, and no one has replied.

I think mostly because im asking for a shock based off a length and not the vehicle model. They just want to sell you the Land Rover shock, not a pin - pin shock of xx length.

The other factor is from what I know, the ARB BP51 is the only domestically produced Internal Bypass shock.

Everything else is basically the same technology (twin tube, or mono-tube, some remote reservoir) all designed to just dissipate heat fastest, or absorb the most heat to give consistent performance.

What is so appealing to me about the BP 51 is it's meant to essentially give you 2 shocks in 1, rides smooth over small bumps, and lets you hit a really big bump at speed without sending you bouncing into the bush. The only question is, does it?

Right now with my lame Terrafirma Shocks if I hit a washout accidentally feels like I've just sent the front diff through the sump, and I'm afraid one day it might.

The only other bypasses you can get are american and they are offroad racing application (think jumps and stuff).

If I don't go with the BP51 I will probably go with Superior Engineering Mono-Tube, maybe remote res. Based off customer service and price.

When you buy from Superior they send you the stuff you want and they bombard you with stickers etc etc. And you talk to people who are more than just a checkout person. You can ask for stuff thats a bit different and they are OK with it.

EDIT: If I'm wrong with any of the above please let me know!

How about Fox remote shocks, Bilstein and Koni? People seem to rate them highly.
I don't know myself, I'm just interested in your opinion. Hope you don't mind me asking.

[micksta1973]

Went and spoke to my local ARB and was quoted $687.75 per front, plus the front kit which I believe is the shock towers/bump stop and sway bar mount spacers? I don't need any of the spacers due to already having bumps top spacers all round and not running sway bars. Price for this kit is $368.55. The rep didn't really know any info, I guess because I wasn't asking for a Land Cruiser. I won't be happy if the price is firm and I have to buy spacers that I don't need. I already have HD DC shafts front and rear from Gwyn Lewis, around $1800 for both delivered. Not too sure what'll happen if it needs castor correction as I have SE superflex arms fitted, and they run Nissan bushes. Rears shocks are same price as front and rear fitting kit is $294. Again I'm guessing I won't need this. I'm VERY concerned about which springs to fit as I have a lot of long travel suspension bits fitted. Rear are X arms which have 60 degrees of arc, so the limiting factor will be shocks and springs. I fitted an ARB 2 inch lift when I bought the car, they fitted plus 2 springs but as I found out, standard height shocks which meant I had very little droop. I really think they have NFI what they're doing most of the time, as the guys out the back are fitters, not suspension engineers. Rep told me the fitting kit was for the reservoir mounts, no mention of anything else, which contradicts the media release on the first page. This will be a large outlay of cash, so if it's just going to be slapped together I might give it a miss. Rep told me he will call an engineer to find out for sure and call me back, but no one here seems to ever call. I found a video on YouTube but it was in German I think. Showed the suspension moving, stock vs BP51. Just wish I knew what was said. Guy was smiling at the end, so I guess it was a positive review? Just rang head office and there is no way to buy the parts needed, as you HAVE to buy the whole kit, bump/sway extensions which I don't need as I already have them. Front kit includes the shock towers and all spacers, rear also includes the upper shock mount, which sucks as I already have Gwyn Lewis mounts, mind you they may be at a different height to the ARB ones. If someone could go out and buy the kit and let me know if it's worth it, I'd really appreciate it.

[Wicks89]

How about Fox remote shocks, Bilstein and Koni? People seem to rate them highly.
I don't know myself, I'm just interested in your opinion. Hope you don't mind me asking.

Hey I'm no suspension guru, so my explanation probably isnt worth much, but one of the main considerations for me was buying Australian made. No judgement on people that don't but for mine I'd rather support a local business if it is possible.

Aside from that, as I understand it there are a few main factors that affect how a shock performs, what it actually does:

Construction of the body - this is the mono-tube vs twin tube design - the idea behind mono-tube is it allows heat to dissipate faster to mitigate heat build up with repetitive cycling of the suspension such as on corrugations

Oil capacity - Remote reservoir canisters come in here - and again designed to mitigate heat developed in the shock absorber by having more oil to absorb it. Can also contain the 'Internal Floating Piston' such as on FOX shocks which AFAIK allows the shock to tolerate 'shock loading' like big hits and high heat.

Valving - this is the bit that actually changes how it feels from square one and once the valving is set the shock will perform a certain way as long as the oil remains serviceable. Some shocks have 'velocity sensitive valving' which is meant to operate differently under normal small loads and big, shock loads.

By Passes - a secondary system that allows the shock to operate differently under certain conditions. So for normal conditions the shock may be firm, but when the vehicle goes over a big jump the bypass allows the piston to shoot through the body fast, up to a point and allows the suspension to 'soak up' the landing.

As far as I know Fox and maybe Bilstein offer bypass shocks but of universal construction so require huge mods.

I'm not set on Bypass shocks, but very intrigued that OME offer them and curious to see if they are truly worth the price. Like if I could pay 600 a corner and my defender would soak up a washout that would normally leave me on the side of the road crawling underneath looking for a bent frame, I'd be very interested.

And again I don't really know enough about shocks to know if any other type of shock can be set up to perform like that. Ive only had these cheap-o terrafirmas on my 130 so I dont really know.

People rave about Koni Raids and stuff but I would honestly prefer to buy Australian made and give some kid in Victoria or Adelaide a job. That and the Raids are just a big beefy shock, nothing really that special about them as far as I can tell?

Maybe I should start a new thread?

Also, Micksta YES I am in the same predicament. I have all the hardware I dont want the other overpriced brackets! Thanks for the pricing info!

[DiscoMick]

Suggest you have a chat to Dobinsons who have various kits, are Australian and do seem to know their stuff. Hopefully they can give good advice.

Official Site (https://www.dobinsonsprings.com/)

[scarry]

How about Fox remote shocks, Bilstein and Koni? People seem to rate them highly.
I don't know myself, I'm just interested in your opinion. Hope you don't mind me asking.

I know two guys that spent big money on Fox remote reservoir suspension, and they both really like them.

One went from BP51 to fox,and recons there is no comparison,the fox outdoes them in all areas.

But note these vehicles are not Defenders.

[Wicks89]

I know two guys that spent big money on Fox remote reservoir suspension, and they both really like them.

One went from BP51 to fox,and recons there is no comparison,the fox outdoes them in all areas.

But note these vehicles are not Defenders.

There's one area that OME has over Fox - Australian Made.

Ive heard good things about lots of shocks but again cant really see how they could be so much better given the different designs. I just find people rave about whatever product they have bought. Whether it's OMEs, FOX, Kings, Bilsteins, KONIs, even Toughdog.

I also cant seem to find any NO BS reviews of these shocks compared. I guess because theyre so expensive.

Most of the independent reviews I've seen on shocks are more like an unboxing video. Just shows you the fancy plastic shields or talks about welds.

Thanks for the advice to talk to Dobinsons, I might drop them a line. :)

[rick130]

There's one area that OME has over Fox - Australian Made.

Ive heard good things about lots of shocks but again cant really see how they could be so much better given the different designs. I just find people rave about whatever product they have bought. Whether it's OMEs, FOX, Kings, Bilsteins, KONIs, even Toughdog.

I also cant seem to find any NO BS reviews of these shocks compared. I guess because theyre so expensive.

Most of the independent reviews I've seen on shocks are more like an unboxing video. Just shows you the fancy plastic shields or talks about welds.

Thanks for the advice to talk to Dobinsons, I might drop them a line. :)It all comes down to who valves and builds them.
You can have the world's most expensive damper but if the valving isn't suitable they aren't worth a pinch of poop.

E.g. Theres only one Bilstein rebuilder in Australia I trust, Baker Brothers.
Gary and his brother have forgotten more than most people will ever know when it comes to damping.
I've had race Bilstein's totally screwed up by an old importer. They had no idea what I was asking them to do.
Sent them to Gary who chastised me for not at least trying them on the car.
"Gary, I've seen the dyno sheet..."
He rang me back after dynoing them, said it was smart not to run them! [emoji23]

Ken O'Keefe's boys at The Ultimate Suspension do nice, well valved 46mm monotubes that are made right here in Australia in Sydney's South West.

Pedro would have a better handle on the off road race stuff, I'm well out of the loop, but from what I recall Dion Beattie was the man when it came to Fox for a long time, Rohan Canavan was the King bloke.

The tech in the race type stuff isn't comparable to the old Twin tube and basic mono-tube stuff.

[DiscoClax]

There's one area that OME has over Fox - Australian Made.

Turns out my earlier statement on the BP51s was wrong. They are made in Thailand. The prototypes were built locally, but unfortunately production went overseas. I believe that the other OME shocks are still made in South Australia (Tenneco / Monroe) but who knows nowadays... I've just ordered Fox 2.0s for my D1 and hopefully they'll see me/it out.

[Wicks89]

Turns out my earlier statement on the BP51s was wrong. They are made in Thailand. The prototypes were built locally, but unfortunately production went overseas. I believe that the other OME shocks are still made in South Australia (Tenneco / Monroe) but who knows nowadays... I've just ordered Fox 2.0s for my D1 and hopefully they'll see me/it out.

Well there goes that!

Back to the drawing board!

Thanks for chiming back in to the discussion clax, it was your original comments that got me so excited.

[DiscoClax]

Sorry about that. I saw the protos locally being built and tested and assumed production would continue locally also, like all other OME gear. But you know what happens when you assume :( I double checked before ordering Defo ones for my D1 and then went cold on the idea of it. For me it jars to spend that sort of coin and find they aren't local. So I went Yankee instead for a lot less...

[rick130]

Turns out my earlier statement on the BP51s was wrong. They are made in Thailand. The prototypes were built locally, but unfortunately production went overseas. I believe that the other OME shocks are still made in South Australia (Tenneco / Monroe) but who knows nowadays... I've just ordered Fox 2.0s for my D1 and hopefully they'll see me/it out.Cheers for that, I too thought they were built here.
Just been having this discussion with a mate who is currently fitting some 12" 9100 Billies to his Deefer

[rick130]

And for Oz made, as mentioned The Ultimate Suspension make 46mm bore monotubes here.
And Jamie Drummond makes huge bore, adjustable rally/off road shocks.
Google DMS, Drummond Motorsport.
Back in the day he was the suspension guru for Nissan when Howard Marsden ran their motorsport department, cutting his teeth on re-fettling Bilsteins.

[Wicks89]

And for Oz made, as mentioned The Ultimate Suspension make 46mm bore monotubes here.
And Jamie Drummond makes huge bore, adjustable rally/off road shocks.
Google DMS, Drummond Motorsport.
Back in the day he was the suspension guru for Nissan when Howard Marsden ran their motorsport department, cutting his teeth on re-fettling Bilsteins.

Thanks for the advice! Looking them up now

[Baytown]

I’m still to replace mine in my 110 as well, so I’m closely following this.
ARB shocks made in Thailand?
Nah, I’ll buy locally made as well!
Thanks fellas.

Ken

[micksta1973]

Phone call to ARB just confirmed shocks are made in Thailand, but that's just the way of the world now. As long as the facility (brand new) and the staff are up to the job, it shouldn't really matter, right?

[Nick S]

Agree with buying Australian if there is an equivalent product here but it all gets a bit confusing when an Aust company (ARB) gets stuff made overseas. Might have to sell the 130 as it was made in the UK.......

[Wicks89]

Agree with buying Australian if there is an equivalent product here but it all gets a bit confusing when an Aust company (ARB) gets stuff made overseas. Might have to sell the 130 as it was made in the UK.......

For me, I want to buy Australian as much as I can mostly to support local jobs and production. And usually stuff that is made here is good quality.

So if there was a 4x4 ute with coil springs, solid axles and a turbodiesel I would have got it. There's not, only the defender.

There are other, better recognised brands of shocks, but ARB stuff is pretty good. And the BP51 is a very unique product hence my strong interest. Shame it's made in Thailand, though nothing against Thai made stuff.

If you love your country, and you have money to burn on something like 4x4 accessories, then you should look at what is available domestically before you go somewhere else.

We can't all work in the mines or retail. My $2000.00 that I might spend on shocks from a domestic PRODUCER is employing and training kids from here.

It's going into the pocket of someone that lives down the road, as opposed to someone that lives on the other side of the world.

And the tax I'm paying on it is going back into our hospitals, our schools, our military etc.

So considering the quality and service you can get from domestic producers, why would you buy something else?

[Baytown]

I’m looking at replacing my shocks (Terrafirma) in the very early new year due to the Christmas rush, and I’m just as confused as I was when I began this thread.

Ive contacted Gwyn Lewis in the UK re his heavy duty front double Cardin prop shaft, and once I manage to get one, I’ll go with the BP51s.

Bugger it, there’s just so much to consider, and seeing as my vehicle is a keeper, I’ll get the best locally available shocks, new tech etc that I can.

Decision made!

Best wishes all.

Ken

[Baytown]

This is the latest quote from ARB for the BP51 figment.
Ive contacted Gwyn Lewis in the UK re their HD Double Cardon prop shaft as pictured.
I will need to also get braided brake lines fitted due to the 50mm lift, which hasn’t been quoted.
Watch this space as it all comes together in the next few months once all the parts arrive.
Im also considering rear pin to pin shock mounts, and front HD shock turrets from Gwyn Lewis.

Ken
156036156037

[Baytown]

I just purchased this from Gwyn Lewis UK.
$1000 delivered to me in Tassie.
It should be a challenge to bugger it up, and now I can order the BP51 set up.
Merry Christmas to me!

156040

[86mud]

Can't see you breaking that....

Did they steal that from an Abrams tank?

[Baytown]

Pretty impressive Andrew aren’t they!


Can't see you breaking that....

Did they steal that from an Abrams tank?

[Slunnie]

I would question if that BP51 quote is justifiable when compared to a set of Bilsteins. I really dont think it is for that application.

[Tombie]

I would question if that BP51 quote is justifiable when compared to a set of Bilsteins. I really dont think it is for that application.

For outright ride and performance they will kill the Billies.

The $$ equation is personal preference.

[Baytown]

156073Hi Slunnie.
The quote is correct. That’s just what you pay for modern tech, vs standard shocks. I like Bilstein, but these are reported to be just another magnitude in efficiency.