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What length shocks to run?

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Old Apr 29, 2020 | 08:35 AM
  #1  
Michael Belliveau's Avatar
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Default What length shocks to run?

Hello, I have search, but not sure how to phrase my question to get the results I need, I put a 1.5 inch TaraFlex leveling kit on and want to by new shocks, however I can't find a set specifically for a 1.5 in lift? Can I use a shock that states it for a 3-4in lift?
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Old Apr 29, 2020 | 09:01 AM
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To find the correct shock length you'll need to remove your current shocks and check then compressed length when the bumpstops are at full compression. Then go to full extension. Pick a length that is shorter than your max compressed and get limiting straps so the shocks aren't the limiting factor.

It's not as easy as 1-3", 3-4", etc without sacrificing travel or potentially giving your shocks an early death.
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Old Apr 29, 2020 | 10:54 AM
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I would not put a shock designed for a 3-4" lift on a jeep that has a leveling kit. You will have no upward travel and too much down travel. lack of upward travel will kill your shocks too long of shock will cause your coils to fall out when drooped. There are plenty of shocks for 0-2" lifts go that route. What price range are you looking at? if lower end look at Rancho RS5000X they make some for 0-2" lifts.
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Old Apr 29, 2020 | 01:09 PM
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Originally Posted by jadmt
I would not put a shock designed for a 3-4" lift on a jeep that has a leveling kit. You will have no upward travel and too much down travel. lack of upward travel will kill your shocks too long of shock will cause your coils to fall out when drooped. There are plenty of shocks for 0-2" lifts go that route. What price range are you looking at? if lower end look at Rancho RS5000X they make some for 0-2" lifts.
Awesome, thank you. I was looking at TaraFlex falcon 2.1. says its for a 1.5 to 2.5 in lift. With my lift it's just a 2in puck up front and 1in in the rear. I will call TaraFlex, but only a half inch longer should be fine right?
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Old Apr 29, 2020 | 01:10 PM
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Originally Posted by jadmt
I would not put a shock designed for a 3-4" lift on a jeep that has a leveling kit. You will have no upward travel and too much down travel. lack of upward travel will kill your shocks too long of shock will cause your coils to fall out when drooped. There are plenty of shocks for 0-2" lifts go that route. What price range are you looking at? if lower end look at Rancho RS5000X they make some for 0-2" lifts.
Originally Posted by karls10jk
To find the correct shock length you'll need to remove your current shocks and check then compressed length when the bumpstops are at full compression. Then go to full extension. Pick a length that is shorter than your max compressed and get limiting straps so the shocks aren't the limiting factor.

It's not as easy as 1-3", 3-4", etc without sacrificing travel or potentially giving your shocks an early death.
Do you think that is necessary for a nearly stock JK? When I get a real lift I will absolutely be do that though. Thank you
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Old Apr 29, 2020 | 01:38 PM
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You should be looking at a shock with 10" of travel sized for the JK. Stock travel is just a bit over 8". Karl explained the correct way to measure and if you don't do it like that then you are not utilizing all of the shock you can.
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