Shock Length Calculator

Shock length refers to the distance between the upper and lower mounting points of the shock absorber when it is fully extended and not under load. Choosing the right shock length is crucial for proper suspension performance and travel. Measure the eye-to-eye length to ensure the shock fits your vehicle’s suspension setup and requirements.

FAQs

How do I know what length shock I need? To determine the shock length you need, measure the distance between the mounting points (eye-to-eye length) where the shock will be installed. Additionally, consider the intended application, vehicle weight, and suspension travel requirements.

What happens if your shocks are too long? If shocks are too long, they may not fully compress or extend within the suspension’s travel range. This can lead to reduced suspension performance, bottoming out, and potential damage to the shock or vehicle components.

How do I know what shocks to buy? Consider the make and model of your vehicle, the intended use (e.g., off-road, street driving), and any lift or leveling modifications. Research and choose reputable brands with suitable shock absorber options for your vehicle.

What is the eye-to-eye length of shocks? The eye-to-eye length of shocks refers to the distance between the upper and lower mounting points of the shock absorber when it is fully extended and not under load.

Will stock shocks work with a 6-inch lift? Stock shocks may not be suitable for a 6-inch lift as they might not have the necessary extended length to accommodate the increased suspension travel. Longer shocks specifically designed for the lift should be used.

Do I need longer shocks for a 2-inch lift? For a 2-inch lift, longer shocks may not be strictly necessary, but they can improve performance and comfort by providing more suspension travel and better damping control.

Do shocks take time to break in? Yes, some shocks may require a break-in period to reach their optimal performance. During this period, the shocks settle into their normal operating condition.

Why does my car feel every bump on the road? Feeling every bump may be due to worn-out shocks or struts, which lose their ability to dampen and absorb impacts effectively.

Why does my car feel bouncy over bumps? A bouncy feeling over bumps can be caused by weak or damaged shocks or struts that are unable to control the suspension’s movement.

Which shocks give the smoothest ride? Shocks with good damping control and valving tailored to the vehicle’s weight and suspension design can provide the smoothest ride.

What shocks are best for comfort? Shock absorbers with a focus on comfort typically have softer valving to absorb road imperfections and provide a more cushioned ride.

Are aftermarket shocks better? Aftermarket shocks can offer better performance, durability, and customization options compared to standard OEM shocks.

How much travel should a shock have? The amount of shock travel required depends on the vehicle’s suspension design and intended use. It should provide enough travel to accommodate suspension movement without bottoming out.

What should be the distance between two eyes? The distance between two eyes (eye-to-eye length) is measured between the center of the upper and lower shock mounts.

How do you calculate shock stroke? Shock stroke is calculated by subtracting the compressed length from the extended length of the shock.

How much lift do King 2.5 shocks give? The lift provided by King 2.5 shocks can vary depending on the vehicle, suspension setup, and application. It is best to check with the manufacturer for specific details.

Do I need new shocks with a 2.5-inch leveling kit? A 2.5-inch leveling kit typically alters the vehicle’s front height. It is recommended to install longer shocks to accommodate the increased suspension travel.

Should shocks be fully extended? Shocks should not be fully extended when the vehicle is at rest, as this can cause damage to the shock and affect its performance.

Will a 2-inch lift affect handling? A 2-inch lift can affect the vehicle’s handling, especially if the shocks and suspension components are not properly matched to the new ride height.

Will a 2-inch leveling kit damage my truck? If properly installed and accompanied by suitable components (e.g., longer shocks), a 2-inch leveling kit should not cause damage to the truck.

Do shorter shocks lower my truck? Shorter shocks can reduce the truck’s ride height, but they may negatively impact suspension travel and handling.

What is the average life of shocks? The average life of shocks can vary depending on driving conditions, vehicle usage, and shock quality. Generally, they may last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

Should I be able to compress a shock by hand? It is normal to compress some shocks by hand slightly, but excessive ease of compression may indicate worn-out shocks.

What is the lifespan of shocks? The lifespan of shocks can vary, but they may typically last around 50,000 to 100,000 miles before experiencing wear.

Why does my car fishtail when I hit a bump? Fishtailing when hitting a bump can be caused by worn shocks or improper suspension alignment, leading to reduced stability.

Why is my car so loud when I hit a bump? Loud noises when hitting bumps may indicate worn-out or damaged shocks, causing the suspension to make unusual noises.

Why does my car pull to one side when I go over bumps? Pulling to one side when hitting bumps may be due to alignment issues or uneven shock performance on each side of the vehicle.

How do you know if shocks are bad? Signs of bad shocks include excessive bouncing, poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a rough or uncomfortable ride.

What helps reduce suspension bounce? Properly functioning shocks or struts can help reduce suspension bounce by dampening the suspension movement.

Why are my shocks so bouncy? Bouncy shocks may be worn out, have insufficient damping, or not be suitable for the vehicle’s weight and suspension design.

Which is better gas or oil-filled shocks? Gas-filled shocks generally provide better performance and handling due to reduced foaming and improved damping.

Is stiffer suspension better for bumpy roads? Stiffer suspension can help improve handling and stability on bumpy roads but may compromise ride comfort.

Do you want stiffer or softer suspension? The ideal suspension stiffness depends on personal preference and the intended use of the vehicle. Stiffer suspension offers better performance but can be less comfortable.

Why are Bilstein shocks so good? Bilstein shocks are known for their high-quality construction, precise damping control, and performance-oriented design.

Do shocks make a difference in ride quality? Yes, shocks significantly impact ride quality by controlling suspension movement and absorbing road imperfections.

Which shocks are more important, front or rear? Both front and rear shocks are essential for overall suspension performance, and both should be in good condition.

Should I get OEM shocks or aftermarket? Aftermarket shocks can offer improved performance and customization options, while OEM shocks are designed to match the vehicle’s original specifications.

Are Bilstein shocks better than OEM? Bilstein shocks are often considered an upgrade over standard OEM shocks due to their performance and durability.

Are Monroe shocks better than OEM? Monroe shocks are reputable aftermarket shocks that can offer good performance and ride quality compared to OEM shocks.

How do I choose the right shock length? Choose the right shock length by measuring the distance between the upper and lower mounting points and selecting a shock with a length that fits your suspension setup and requirements.

What happens if your shocks are too long? If shocks are too long, they may not fully compress or extend within the suspension’s travel range. This can lead to reduced suspension performance, bottoming out, and potential damage to the shock or vehicle components.

Can you overextend a shock absorber? Overextending a shock absorber can damage the shock and affect its performance. Make sure the shock has appropriate travel for your vehicle’s suspension.

What is the 20-second rule for eyes? The 20-second rule for eyes is to rest your eyes every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.

What is the 20-2 rule for eyes? The 20-2 rule for eyes is to take a 20-second break every 2 hours of continuous screen use to reduce digital eye strain.

What if my PD is off by 1mm? A slight difference in pupillary distance (PD) of 1mm may not significantly affect vision, but precise measurements are essential for optimal eyeglasses fit.

What is the eye-to-eye length of a shock? The eye-to-eye length of a shock refers to the distance between the upper and lower mounting points of the shock absorber when fully extended and not under load.

How do you measure eye-to-eye shock? To measure eye-to-eye length, measure the distance between the center of the upper and lower mounting holes where the shock will be installed.

What is the stroke length of a shock? The stroke length of a shock refers to the distance the shock shaft can move between fully compressed and fully extended positions.

What is the max PSI for rear shock? The maximum PSI (pounds per square inch) for rear shocks depends on the specific shock model and manufacturer. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended PSI.

How much PSI should I put in my rear shock? The recommended PSI for rear shocks depends on factors like rider weight, bike model, and riding style. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the appropriate PSI range.

Does a 2-inch lift make a difference? A 2-inch lift can provide improved ground clearance and off-road capability while altering the vehicle’s appearance and changing the suspension geometry.

Do I need longer shocks for a 2-inch lift? For a 2-inch lift, longer shocks may not be strictly necessary, but they can improve performance and comfort by providing more suspension travel and better damping control.

Do you need longer shocks with a leveling kit? When installing a leveling kit that alters the vehicle’s height, longer shocks may be needed to maintain proper suspension travel and performance.

Is a 2-inch lift the same as a leveling kit? A 2-inch lift and a leveling kit are similar in that they increase the vehicle’s front height, but they may have different mechanisms and effects on the suspension.

Will stock shocks work with a 6-inch lift? Stock shocks may not be suitable for a 6-inch lift as they might not have the necessary extended length to accommodate the increased suspension travel. Longer shocks specifically designed for the lift should be used.

Do shocks take time to break in? Yes, some shocks may require a break-in period to reach their optimal performance. During this period, the shocks settle into their normal operating condition.

How big of tires can I fit with a 2-inch lift? The size of tires that can be fitted with a 2-inch lift depends on the vehicle’s model, wheel well clearance, and any modifications made to the suspension.

Do lifted trucks waste more gas? Lifted trucks can experience increased aerodynamic drag and weight, leading to potentially higher fuel consumption.

What are the downsides of leveling a truck? Leveling a truck can result in a stiffer front suspension and may impact the vehicle’s balance and handling.

What are the negatives of leveling kits? Some negatives of leveling kits include potential changes in suspension geometry, increased stress on components, and altered ride characteristics.

What does shortened shocks do? Shortened shocks can lower a vehicle’s ride height and improve handling but may reduce suspension travel and comfort.

Is it OK to put lowering springs on stock shocks? Installing lowering springs on stock shocks may work initially but can lead to premature wear and reduced performance. Upgrading shocks is recommended.

Can shocks last 100,000 miles? Shocks can last around 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and shock quality.

How often should shocks be replaced? Shock replacement intervals can vary, but they should be inspected for wear and replaced when they no longer perform optimally.