Hey all -

I have a '12 JKU Sport with 3.21, 6 speed, and am running 315/75r17 BFG KO's. Anyways, I bought the Jeep with a 3" Terraflex lift installed, but I need to get new shocks as they chopped up my old set of KM2's (I just bought the KO's a couple days ago). I wanted to get some feedback on which shocks I should be getting for it. I'm between the Bilstein 5100's, OME Nitrochargers, and the Fox 2.0 Remote Res (and possible non remote-res). I've read a bit about all three and I'm looking to hone in and make a decision this week.

I'm working with a budget of around $500-600 after install, but can stretch that if needed. I'm looking for longevity since the TFlex shocks that were on in (P/O put the lift in new at the dealer) only lasted for about 35k and rode like shit. I do a mix of about 95% on road with occasional weekends in the mountains, but where I live in NH roads are potholed and I'd like a ride on the more plush side of the spectrum.

I have a buddy at the local dealership and I can get a deal on the remote res's for under $200 a piece, but I'm not 100% I'm ready to throw down almost $800 for shocks out the gate without install. However, I care more about longevity and would prefer to spend more money now and get longer life out of the shocks, and the possible rebuild ability of the Fox's is a huge plus (anyone have experience with this?). I've heard from other's the 5100's tend to rust out pretty quickly up here in the salt. Anyone know much about their longevity vs. the Nitrochargers?


I'm also thinking about gunning it and also getting the steering stabilizer, as wight he big tires I get lots of feedback off road and I am currently running a stock SS. And having all the same brand is a plus, as will having it installed at the same time (It's way too cold now to do this in my driveway).

My last concern is with the compatibility of the Terraflex springs vs. the shocks of another brand ( i.e.: digressive rate valving vs. spring, etc.).

Any and all feedback will be appreciated.

-Matt

 

First of all shocks are pretty easy to install, as you mentioned. Now with you being in NH and it started to be winter, that can change a lot.


I personally think a remote is a lot for a JK and most drivers won't use them to their full potential, but they are cool and do work when used.
The Bilstein body should hold up pretty well to the salt of the back east. But a little preventive maintenance will help too. Hit them with a clear coat of paint before install and something like Fluid Film too. Lastly I know you mentioned the other brands, but I want to throw this in the mix, since you will be spending a lot of time on the road look to our 9000 adjustable.

Good luck.

 

Rancho shouldn't be so modest. Those shocks won the "Overland Journal" comparo earlier this year. Test mule was a four door JK. When I replace my shocks, I expect to get the Ranchos.

 

My bilsteins have held up great in Northeast weather and I'm right near the shore too winter salt everything. No problems yet.

 

I had 5100's on my Tacoma, they were a little rusty after only 2 years in NC. Can't imagine how they would do up in the northeast. When I get the cash to replace my stock shocks I'm going with ranchos.

 

Nailed it with the fluid film....hit mine a few times a year and there's ZERO rust anywhere

Sent from my LG-LS980 using JK-Forum

 

I am hearing a lot of good things about the Rancho shocks. Guy I work with has them on his Chevy and loves them. My new JKUR should be here middle of December and I was planning to install a 2.5" AEV lift. Are there any other options to get another manufactures lift and go with the Rancho shocks to compete with the AEV and not break the bank?

 

When I was in the Border Patrol back in the day we had Rancho shocks and lifts on most of our vehicles. Rancho developed a mild suspension kit for our Expeditions and Tahoes, and had a really decent lift/suspension kit for our "OJ' Broncos. They really went above and beyond, working with a bunch of GSA mechanics to get us taken care of. I always found it a bit amusing to be driving a vehicle with blue and red lights, law enforcement markings, and Rancho Suspensions decals on the lower front quarter panels.

 

Rancho was one of the first suspension companies, I remember hearing about growing up. As far as shocks go they were THE standard for a long time or at least the Rancho 5000 was the standard. Always wanted to get the 9000 with the in cab remotes controls, but alas that is no longer available. I am waiting for the 9000 to come in Resi form and I will be all over them.

 

Me too

Fluid film x10