What's the optimum lenghth for shocks?

Thread view:

Enable EMail Alerts

Start New Thread

Thread rating:

fordcrew - 13 Dec 2005 01:24 GMT

I am finishing modifying the chasis for a medium/heavy duty truck (Ford
F250, 4x4, crew cab, 460cid. The shock mounts are welded in place and
are ready to receive new shocks.The front shocks must be stem mount on
both ends. The rear shocks must be loop mount on both ends (done deal
can't change). Since I don't, and won't have a mfg. recommended shock I
want to make sure the shocks I install are not too short or too long. I
don't want to use a short shock and stretch it to its maximum when
installed as I would only have damping when compressed, but at the same
time I don't want a shock so long that I lose the damping action by
having it bottomed out. Anyone with a good idea for calculating the
optimum lenghts of the shocks so they will work in their optimum range
of motion, and have equal damping ranges of compression and expansion?
I am also open for suggestions as to what brand and model shocks to use.

Reply to this Message

Jim Warman - 13 Dec 2005 04:38 GMT

Your best bet is to allow the suspension to reach full droop and measure the
required length..... ditto at full bound (compression). Select a shock whose
compressed and extended lengths exceed your measured lengths.... This way
you can be sure if your shock has sufficient travel to begine with.

Bear in mind that not all shock valving is created equal..... A mini-car
shock on the front of your truck (unless it's a multi-hock arrangement)
would have a tough time keeping up with the truck and could overheat on
rough roads.

HTH

>I am finishing modifying the chasis for a medium/heavy duty truck (Ford
> F250, 4x4, crew cab, 460cid. The shock mounts are welded in place and
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
> of motion, and have equal damping ranges of compression and expansion?
> I am also open for suggestions as to what brand and model shocks to use.

Reply to this Message