Thread: Sizing up for shock length.

OK, so I have a D2, Lovells +50mm HD springs. It's up slightly more than the 50mm and is topping out the std shocks on full extension but not stretching brake lines.

Looking at either Fox 2.0 Pro-Series or Bilstein 7100, both reservoir shocks. Selection based purely on price and performance.

So in looking I've found some different methods of finding the required lengths, the most common seems to be to disconnect and jack until the desired extension (with/without dislocation) is achieved and measure to get extended length. Then lower, measure shock length and subtract distance of bump stop to diff to get compressed length.

Seems simple enough. Any other ideas, suggestions, dis-creditations?

So in valving in Fox I've been recommended valving at 85/95. From reading the Bilsteins seem to be valved at 400/100 for heavy loads (rear?), 275/78 front (but too soft from reports), 360/80 also front and seem to be the way to go.

Should I retain or dislocate? Have an Ashcroft ATB in the rear. If dislocate, should I go something light like the Terrafirma poly cones or more like the Gwynn Lewis cones with retaining hooks.

Takes breath, waits for barrage.

One thing of consideration. Allow for some compression of the bump stop rubber. There may be a time were you manage to bottom out the suspension hard. I was told to allow about 15 t0 20 mm by a mechanic. In my set up I have only worried about the compressed length on the rear as I have limit straps fitted. Limit straps will allow you to dislocate and not over extend your shocks. My rear springs are retained but there extended length would be greater than the shocks travel hence why I have limit straps. The front I my ute still needs to be set up right.
Cheers Hall