Shock Boots use 'em or loose 'em

[Dan Whitaker]

I am going to replace the stock shocks on on my 97 Mountaineer in the spring. I will probably go with RS9000 shocks. Should I use the shock boots or leave them off. I had a 86 4-Runner a few years back and I baught the shocks from Downey which specilaized only in Toyotas. They strongly sugested that I didn't use the boots due to the fact that the boots would retain moisture and would cause rusting of the piston shaft

Also while I'm asking, does Rancho or anyone else for that mater make steering stabilizers for this year?

 

[Robert]

The shock boots that came with my Edelbrocks have two little holes in them that would allow any water to run out. The boots are to prevent dirt from getting on the shaft which could find its way into the shock, causing excessive wear on the seals. I imagine your shocks would wear out faster without the boots.

 

[JDraper]

If you go offroading, I'd lose 'em. Even though the shock boots have holes in them to drain, they can still hold water in if the holes get clogged with mud. They also don't allow the shaft to dry as fast. Since the shaft is covered.

 

[chad]

I would say keep the boots for two reasons. First, even small pits or scores in the piston shaft can lead to rust, a torn seal or damage without the boot. Second, our shocks create heat as the expand and contract that heat should decrease the amount of moisture in the boot faster than a non heated application. To support my idea look at the can of the old shock and see what kind of condition it is in. If it is scored and rusted then image what an unprotected cromed piece would look like. If it is not then you would probably not have any problems with it at all. Just my 2 cents.

 

[mrboyle]

I personally don't run boots on my shocks, but the decision weither to run them is up to you. The arguement on life expectancy can go either way. I have seen shocks last just as long covered or not.

 

[KEbert]

I have them on my Bilsteins because I think they are too expensive and too high quality to have anything go wron with them. Although they have a lifetime warranty, I think it would be voided if you don't use the boots.