looking for longer shocks for my 94 ex!

[jake122288]

i recently lifted my explorer and was curious what "factory spec" shocks from other vehicles would work with my explorer using the stock shock mounts. Just looking for something a bit longer to accomodate my lift. thanks in advance

 

[Anime]

If you want to go cheap, you can get Monroe/Gabriel front shocks for an F-150 with the same lower eyelet/upper threaded shaft and they will usually work.

Monroe/Gabriel make longer "lift" shocks for the Explorer and same TTB equipped ranger under several brand names such as Rancho, Rough Country, Superlift, Skyjacker, etc. Basically whatever brand name your lift is, you can usually get an (overpriced) shock for it.

If you're willing to spend more, a few companies (such as Bilstein) make longer shocks for the TTB 4x4 Ranger, which uses the same front spring/shock system and mount as the 91-94 Explorers. They are usually for a ~4 in. lift.

If you REALLY want to spend more, you can get high end rebuildable units, from the lines of FOX, Bilstein, etc. The entry level stuff is surprisingly affordable, though usually, again, made for a Ranger. You can also use their universal shocks to suit your needs.


Longer rear shocks usually aren't needed, since you can just move the lower mounting point for the stock length shocks upwards with a lift, and gain additional ground clearance, but you can of course get longer rear lift shocks from the same companies that make them for the front of an Explorer.

 

[Maniak]

how much lift did you add?

If you want to not only use a longer shock, but use a an even longer shock, you put an f-250 shock mount in for the top mount. Then you can use even longer shocks and get more travel out of it.

edit: I found a pic of our shock mount (f-250 mount).. with the long shock installed (4" or so lift).

~Mark

 

[jake122288]

how much lift did you add?

If you want to not only use a longer shock, but use a an even longer shock, you put an f-250 shock mount in for the top mount. Then you can use even longer shocks and get more travel out of it.

edit: I found a pic of our shock mount (f-250 mount).. with the long shock installed (4" or so lift).

~Mark

well i did do the SOA in the rear and the f150 seats and 3 inch sloped body lift (please no one turn this thread about the cons to my choice for my truck to lift thanks) I know thats only 2 inches up front and longer shocks arent fully necessary as i hear but i would just like something a bit longer now so that when i do lift more in future (suspension wise) i will be someone already equiped

 

[Maniak]

Just look in the rancho catalog (http://www.gorancho.com/products/docs/2008_Rancho_Catalog.pdf) at the stock length shocks and the types of fittings it has. Then just add 2" to it and keep the styles of the ends the same.

The f-150 mounts aren't quite 2" so if you get shocks that are 2" longer there is a chance you will bottom out the shocks on a hard bump. If that happens you may break off the lower shock mount (they make kits to fix that).

If your just trying to get a little more "droop" for what you have now, you can just put some washers (about 1" worth) on the top mount/stem under the upper shock mount. That will allow the shock to drop more and will keep the amount of travel the same. I don't think you can put too many washers on it to the point you will bottom out the shock since the upper stem isn't quite that long.

~Mark

 

[jake122288]

Just look in the rancho catalog (http://www.gorancho.com/products/docs/2008_Rancho_Catalog.pdf) at the stock length shocks and the types of fittings it has. Then just add 2" to it and keep the styles of the ends the same.

The f-150 mounts aren't quite 2" so if you get shocks that are 2" longer there is a chance you will bottom out the shocks on a hard bump. If that happens you may break off the lower shock mount (they make kits to fix that).

If your just trying to get a little more "droop" for what you have now, you can just put some washers (about 1" worth) on the top mount/stem under the upper shock mount. That will allow the shock to drop more and will keep the amount of travel the same. I don't think you can put too many washers on it to the point you will bottom out the shock since the upper stem isn't quite that long.

~Mark

thank you for teh washer idea...i didnt think about that...deff going to use that for now since i have plenty on hand which means it will cost no money at this time =D my gramp and i have always had the theory nuts bolts washers can always come in handy later so our supply is great of all sizes and styles and grades! thanks again. one last question? what would be a recommended shock brand? pro's cons to brands? and the cheap monroe shock i believe they were i found for like 20 dollars a piece? are they a waste of money or do they work sufficient?