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Shock absorber review part 3If you need to replace all four of your vehicle’s shock absorbers, this suspension kit by Rancho could be the perfect solution. The RS5000 is a popular shock absorber, and for good reason – they perform excellently off the beaten path, without compromising on highway performance. Equipped with 10 stage high velocity sensitive valving, the shocks are carefully designed to provide different vehicles with specific tuning. Meanwhile, a 5.8 inch diameter piston rod improves strength and durability. Each shock includes its own protective boot, preserving the component against dirt, dust and rain in its environment. Each set of Rancho shock absorbers includes a limited lifetime warranty, demonstrating the faith that this manufacturer has in their products. Drivers across the board were impressed with how the shocks stood up to potholes and other challenging road surfaces, noting a significant improvement in ride comfort compared to standard shocks. Key Features
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These Gabriel shock absorbers have also earned a spot on our list, thanks to their unique and reliable design. Founded back in 1907, Gabriel actually invented the original shock absorber, and continue to be the home of suspension innovation to this day. Each component carefully combines shock and spring technology, adding up to the perfect solution for heavy duty use – all at a budget friendly price point. The constant-rate front coil springs help improve stability, while also maintaining and restoring ride height. Meanwhile, variable-rate rear coil springs allow each shock to handle loads up to 500 pounds in weight. Given that these are ‘Load Carrier’ shocks, this impressive capacity should come as no surprise. These components are the perfect option for towing trailers, or supporting heavy cargo in your truck bed or SUV. Suitable for both front and rear use, each shock absorber features a chromed piston rod, which effectively keeps corrosion at bay for a long and effective service life. Meanwhile, excellent seal lubrication ensures even wear, and helps improve durability. Key Features
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ACDelco have also nabbed themselves a second spot on our list, with these premium gas charged from shock absorbers. Each shock features a chromed piston rod engraved with unique ‘micro cracks’, for a surface that’s ultra-smooth, self-lubricating, and resistant to scratches and corrosion. Not only does this surface improve the shcock’s seal life, it also helps to extend the component’s overall lifetime. Inside each shock, a drawn over mandrel (DOM) pressure cylinder provides excellent sealing properties, along with reduced internal friction. They’re also gas charged, significantly reducing fluid aeration. This in turn leads to improved responsiveness, less foaming, and more consistent control than non-gas charged shock absorbers can offer. Meanwhile, a self-lubricated multi-lip piston rod seal helps to keep dirt, dust, and other contaminants away from the rod’s interior, improving performance and service life. Like all ACDelco components, these shocks are made to a consistently high standard of quality, and specifically designed to work in harmony with General Motors vehicles. Key Features
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KYB have snagged the penultimate spot on our list, thanks to their MonoMax shock absorbers. Designed to tackle heavy duty use, these shocks can improve your vehicle’s dampening by as much as 40% compared to standard shock absorbers, making for a smoother ride with improved control – an overall better driving experience. Although these shocks are compatible with a wide range of vehicles, they’re carefully tailored to work best with GM vehicles. Trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs are all ideal candidates for these impressively durable shock absorbers. Thanks to their monotube design, each shock will consistently out-perform standard twin-tube options. This design also helps to improve the component’s durability, for an excellent service lifetime. The shock’s piston ring is constructed from zinc coated stainless steel – the perfect combination when it comes to keeping corrosion and staining at bay. Meanwhile, the included rubber boot helps to protect the shaft against dirt, dust, and debris, further adding to the component’s overall durability. If you regularly use your vehicle for towing, off-roading, or carrying heavy loads, this could be the perfect solution for you. Key Features
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Here comes Monroe, making its third appearance on our list thanks to its 31000 Monro-Matic Plus shock absorber. The component hinges on a 1/2 inch diameter piston rod are much wider than other options for ultimate hard-wearing durability. The rod has been nitro carburized for an extra-long service life, while a larger than average bore provides more efficient and consistent control. Meanwhile, the shock’s all weather fluid contains modifiers specially engineered to reduce friction and ensure smooth rod reaction. The shock’s gas charged design, along with its velocity sensitive valving, combine to offer drivers of passenger cars a smoother ride and improved comfort – all at an affordable price point. Drivers who have tried the shocks say that these cost effective shocks are perfect for trucks, SUVs, and more, making for a much softer ride. Key Features
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Best Shock Absorber Buying Guide & FAQThese 10 shock absorbers are the best of the bunch – whatever your vehicle, lifestyle, or budget, we’re confident there’s something on our list to meet your needs. To help you find the perfect shocks for you – and get the most out of them – we’ve put together this brief guide. Below, we run through how to spot a quality shock absorber, the different types available, and how to tell if yours should be replaced.
What to Look for When Buying a Shock AbsorberWhen it’s time to choose new shock absorbers for your vehicle, it’s a good idea to watch out for the following features:
First and foremost, be sure to select the appropriate type of shock absorber for your vehicle, and your needs. Many manufacturers produce components with a specific type of vehicle in mind, so be sure to carefully check that the shock you purchase is compatible with your car. We’ll talk about the types of shock you’ll have to choose from in more detail below.
Whatever we buy, we all want to get our money’s worth, and selecting a shock absorber with a long service life is highly cost effective. It can be difficult to tell how long a shock will last through specifications alone, but checking out customer feedback can be a big help. Besides this, look out for relatively thick pistons, strong materials, and a well-protected shaft. Many shocks use a rubber boot to achieve this level of protection.
A shock absorber’s job is to bear the brunt of vibrations and bumps from the road, helping to ensure constant road contact, and a smooth ride. To make sure your potential shock is up to the task, look out for low friction all weather fluid, and self-lubrication.
A component is only as good as the materials it’s made from, so be sure to check that your new shock absorbers have been built from high quality metals. You can expect most shocks to be made from strong and durable steel, which is often preserved through a chrome or zinc coating. Look out for these materials, and you can rest assured the shock was built to last. Why You Should Change Your ShocksEven if your vehicle’s original shocks are functional, you might want to upgrade them for a few reasons, including:
Types of Shock AbsorbersShock absorbers typically fall into one of the following categories:
The ‘gas’ in gas shocks refers to the inert nitrogen with which this type of shock absorber is filled. They’re ideal for smaller vehicles, as they’re tough enough to handle plenty of bouncing around – typical for many passenger cars. Most new cars are fitted with this type of shock: they’re affordable, versatile, and last for around 100,000 miles.
As the name implies, this type of shock absorber is designed for heavy duty use, such as towing, off-roading, and carrying heavy cargo. Most of the shocks on our list fall into this category. Heavy duty shocks typically feature a larger center shaft than their standard cousins, and deliver a stiffer overall ride – great for heavy loads and trucks, but not so good for sedans or coupes.
These sophisticated shocks feature an air pump which activates to even out the vehicle’s weight distribution automatically. This helps to ensure a smooth ride, even when you’re carrying unusual loads. Unsurprisingly, these shocks don’t come cheap, and they’re typically found on luxury vehicles only.
Air shocks can also be used to achieve even weight distribution in your vehicle, but they must be adjusted manually. If you haul often and are familiar with the adjustment process, air shocks could be ideal, otherwise, they may be more hassle than they’re worth.
Sometimes called ‘coil-over shocks’, this type of shock absorber features a spring coil fitted around the shock cylinder. This type of shock is best for off-road vehicles, such as dune buggies. Best Shock Absorber FAQ:Q: When Should I Replace My Shock Absorbers?This will depend upon the brand in question, so always check the manufacuter’s advice. As a rule of thumb, shock absorbers should be replaced (in pairs) roughly every 50,000 miles. Q: How Can I Test for a Bad Shock Absorber?If one or more of your vehicle’s shock absorbers are failing, you’ll usually notice the following symptoms: Q: How Do I Change a Shock Absorber?The installation process will vary depending on the type of shock you choose, and you vehicle. Generally, you can expect to work through the following steps: |
