New Shocks for a Rubicon, what to get?
 

My 2013 Unlimited Rubicon with over 150k miles on it needs shocks. Should I pay for the $200 OEM factory shocks, or is there something aftermarket that is just as good / better for less?

I also am going to be needing new tires soon and am considering upgrading my tires from the stock 255/75/17 size to a slightly larger 285/70/17 size. Would that influence what I should get for shocks? Thanks!

Look on ebay for nearly new Rubicon take-offs. Search for "Rubicon Shocks".
If you want to stay with OEM shocks, you'll love the prices.

I agree with ronjenx on the factory take offs.. Sometimes you can find brand new Rubicon Springs and shocks on Craigslist for $100. If you pick up the Springs too , you'll want to ensure they are rated for the weight of your Unlimited with hard top.

If you want new aftermarket shocks, The Ranch 9000 series is gaining popularity and getting good reviews in the JK community in recent years. Now is a good time to buy them because Rancho has their Shocktober sale that is usually buy 3 get 4th one free.

I run the Bilstien 5100 shocks and enjoy them. The only thing that really affects which shock to buy is how high your Jeep is lifted. You don't want to buy shocks that are too long or you might bottom out all the time. You also don't want to buy ones that are too short for the same (but opposite) reason.

If you're going for a wider tire than stock, remember that the JK doesn't handle larger tires without more backspacing on the wheels either through aftermarket wheels or wheel spacers.

So how should size 285/70/17 be?

shocks and tires
 

Tire size should be fine. 285's are only a few tenths larger diameter than the factory 255's (32.00" vs 32.70") and are wider by just over an inch (10.03" vs 11.2"). Actual manufactures numbers vary....

The shocks are your preference. If you have been happy with the factory shocks and the way they ride, stick with them. As others have indicated, the factory rubi stuff is usually found cheap as people upgrade their suspension components. Some can be brand new and cheap. If you want some more control over how they work, for example towing or heavy loads or cushy smooth ride, then the Rancho 9000's are a good adjustable shock.

Just remember that factory shocks usually are tuned for the springs (and hopefully the vehicle application) they have been paired with so they work well together. If you change either or both, that might not work well.

You will need spacers on stock wheels to prevent rubbing on the front sway bar near steering lock. 265s were enough for mine to rub.

Mr72, is yours a rubi or a sport? makes a difference...

How is that? Is the axle longer on a Rubicon? Sway bar bent differently? Both?

BTW I have a sport with Sahara 18" wheels. 265/70r18 rubbed the sway bar.

A few months ago I got Rubi springs and shocks for $80 with about 2000 miles on them. I installed the shocks on my 2012 jku Sport and noticed a difference in the ride. Less harsh hitting small bumps and joints in road. One of these days I'll post the springs for sale if someone has a 2 door they want to get a little height boost.