Tuesday, November 19, 2013
How to Determine Shock Absorber Length
The shock absorbers, also called dampers, keep the tires flat on the surface of the road while cushioning the ride against jarring bumps and dips. Without them, you would feel jolts and vibrations translated up to through the frame, resulting in an uncomfortable ride. Shocks come in two interior designs: the oil-filled tube and the gas-operated variety. Both do their jobs well but sooner or later require replacement because of wear and age. Knowing the proper length, size and design of replacement shocks will determine how well the shocks perform on the vehicle.
Instructions
- 1
Remove the shocks from the vehicle (the exact removal method will depend on your vehicle), and wipe them down. Examine any lettering or numbers on them. Note whether they have an aftermarket brand name printed on the tube body. A standard equipment shock has little or no writing on it and appears smaller than any aftermarket shock. To measure the shock, collapse the tube body until it seats, then measure the shock from the top shaft to the bottom of the mount with a tape measure. Write the number down. Extend the shock completely by pulling on the tube body. Measure the total length from the top shaft to the mounting bolt bracket with a tape measure. Write this number down as well.
2Take one of the rear and front shocks to your local auto parts store, and study the parts (buyers) catalog with the help of the parts clerk. Compare the shock dimensions until you find one that matches the extended length (the more important measurement) and the collapsed length. Look for replacement shocks with the exact measurements for the extension length and the collapsed length. If you have difficulty finding the correct dimension in the catalog, purchase a replacement shock with no dimension shorter than the collapsed length.
3Study the new shock mounting hardware to ensure the mounting bracket holes match. For older cars and trucks, ask whether the auto supply store carries an old Warshawskis or JC Whitney reference catalog.
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