Which Are The Best Shocks For Jeeps
The Jeep XJ (Cherokee) is particularly known for its unique versatility and good look. It also has durable and quality parts. However, one might need to change the shocks on their Jeep XJ for a number of reasons.
One, if the factory shocks become worn out after extensive use. Another reason is if you have lifted your Jeep XJ. Longer shocks to fit your vehicle will be necessary for a comfortable ride. This article indicates the best shock absorber options for a Jeep XJ.
First, Jeep XJ shocks are broadly classified into either mono tube or twin tube. A twin tube refers to a shock cylinder filled with fluid and has a piston inside. It is a favorite for daily use and a comfortable ride. A mono tube on the other hand is a single valve system meaning all the shock components are within one shell.
It has a better cooling system and ability to run off-road beautifully. It can also be used for daily driving but it will have a firmer ride. The following shock absorbers are some of the high quality options for your Jeep XJ.
Best Shocks for Jeep XJ
Comparison table
Rough Country Lift Kit N2.0 Shocks
The Rough Country 3 inches all lift kit is compatible with 1984-2001 Jeep XJ models. It has nitrogen gas charged shocks with customized 10 level valving. It provides good performance on- and off-road being custom made for this versatility.
Beyond the nitrogen charged N2.0 shocks, this lift kit also includes a set of lifted coil springs and lifted leaf springs. This helps level the vehicle giving it enough ground clearance for larger tires that are often used with such vehicles. These shocks give you the perfect blend of look, performance and stability.
Key Features
- Nitrogen charged N2.0 series shock absorbers which provide good, stable performance on- and off-road
- Gives a 3 inch lift in the front and 1.5-2 inches in the rear thereby leveling the car
- Fits both 2WD and 4WD 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJs
Pros
- Maintains factory ride quality
- Easy installation, direct bolt-on
- Provides unmatched ground clearance appropriate for on- and off-road use
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Might need additional tools such as a track bar and drag link. This is to ensure proper alignment after the lift
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Bilstein 4600
The Bilstein 4600 is a high pressurized gas shock with a mono tube design. It works excellently on smooth, paved roads and it also soaks up bumps and potholes with ease. Its superior tube strength makes this possible while maximizing heat dissipation. This provides fade free performance as well as increasing the shock’s service life.
It uses a digressive piston which is velocity sensitive reacting to changing road conditions. This ensures consistent performance, ride quality and handling off-road and on-road. Precise adjustments also give a Jeep XJ more stability and carrying capacity with these shocks.
Key Feature
- Sold as a package of 4 Bilstein 4600 shocks with blue boots specific to your vehicle
- Mono tube, lower mount body design
- High gas pressure shock that has a longer service life
- Unique digressive piston design synonymous with Bilsteins. Provides greater handling and control of the vehicle as well as greater sensitivity
Pros
- Optimum lane stability and enhanced grip in day to day driving as well as off-road
- Good ride quality as well as better handling and safety
- Easy installation, direct bolt-on with no modifications required
- Lifetime warranty
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KYB Monomax Gas Shocks
KYB Monomax Gas shocks are heavy duty mono tube shocks that are just built to provide great handling, control and durability. Its tough design provides the additional stability that powerful, lifted cars with a high center of gravity require.
The KYB mono tube system provides more damping performance than regular shock absorbers as they are modeled for vehicles that go off-road.
It also has a zinc-coated, stainless steel piston ring that provides a rust resistant seal that is protective even in extreme road conditions. Its oversized 46mm piston contributes to higher rebound dampening.
Other impressive parts KYB shock absorbers are the mounting eye rings and bolt bushings that help reduce vibrations and rattling. All necessary parts such as the aforementioned bolt bushings, washers and nuts are also included with the package.
Key Features
- Heavy duty mono tube design that is ideal for tough conditions
- Includes an off-road dust bot and zinc-coated steel piston to reduce shock wear
- Synthetic oil seal is engineered to keep fluid in the shock and any debris out of the oil. This increases the service life of these shocks
- Sold individually shocks with black boots specific to your vehicle
Pros
- Highly durable. Parts like the rubber boot protects the shaft by keeping away debris and dirt from the seals
- Provides maximum performance on-road and off-road
- Includes warranty on parts
- Reasonably easy to install with an accompanying manual
Con
- Ride may be a little firmer than stock
- Bolt holes may be wider
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Bilstein 5100
The Bilstein 5100 Series shocks are mono tube design suspensions that are specifically engineered to work well on- and off-road. Its patented digressive valve system does this by instantly reacting to changing road conditions. This maintains a stable, comfortable and controlled ride no matter the terrain.
They are a high quality option as they are also built to last a long time. For instance, it has zinc and nickel coated sealant that has a clear coat. This makes it highly resistant to corrosion for those who might be in areas with a high salt concentration. The high pressure mono tube design also dissipates heat quickly making it all the more durable. There is less seal damage from heat and as well as reduced instances of shock fade.
They are top of the line shocks for cars with taller stances such as a Jeep XJ. They are built to fit stock height Jeeps and also have mounting configurations built to accommodate a lifted vehicle. They are used for city driving as well for the trail if you want.
Key Features
- The kit comes as a set of 4 Bilstein 5100 shocks with customized black boots.
- Compatible with stock height vehicles
- Fits both 2WD and 4WD vehicles
- Self-adjusting, deflective-disc rebound and compression
Pros
- Rebound is well controlled and predictable
- Limited lifetime warranty protecting against premature failure and defects
- The kit comes with the necessary bushings, washers and nuts for installation
- Offers a smooth ride yet it is well capable to handle rough terrain in the high country
- Zinc and nickel coat plated to increase its service life
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PRO COMP PRO RUNNER SERIES
The Pro Comp Pro Runner is a mono tube shock absorber. It is brushed, clear coated and zinc plated. They are specifically designed for Jeeps and SUVs with state of the art technology.
The valve system is nitrogen gas charged to enhance performance all the while reducing cavitation during rebound and compression. It delivers good performance while hitting the off-road as well as towing. It is also stable and comfortable enough for daily driving. Good performance can therefore be expected on a highway drive and off-road.
It uses suspension technology that allows the shock to lose heat faster, drastically reducing shock fade. This makes it durable and efficient. They are also compatible for vehicles with standard mount type shocks as well as those with coil-over strut types.
Key Features
- 2 inches diameter mono tube design. Also nitrogen gas charged protecting it against shock fade and overheating
- The package comes as a set of 4 Pro Comp Pro Runner shocks with customized black boots for your Jeep XJ
- Multi-stage valving system that automatically adjusts to changing road conditions. This provides comfort on the highway and more stability off-road
Pros
- Warranty for some of the parts
- Package includes rubber bushings as well as needed tools for installation
- The Vehicle Specific Ride Tuning (VSRT) was designed using both real world and simulated testing
- Good look
Con
- Ride might be quite stiff
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RANCHO RS5000X
This is an all-new 9 inch twin tube shock absorber. It has a patented rebound valving system and advanced compression. It is reinforced with a double plated chrome stock. It is a gas shock as well and the high pressurization of gas increases grip and handling. Gas pressurization also provides a boost of spring rate to the car.
The Ranch RS500X body which is 2.25 inches in diameter also ensures that the fluid capacity runs in great speed adding to the stability of the car.
The suspension technology developed by the ride engineers at Rancho offer a variety of advantages setting it apart from its previous models. For instance, the twin tube gas pressurized shock minimizes the air to oil mixture thereby reducing shock fade and foaming.
The 2.25 inch body also allows for increased fluid flow making the shocks cooler. This in turn ensures proper vehicle control and performance at high speed and rough terrain.
Furthermore, it has knob adjustment options for the damping you require. The Progressive Engagement Valve system unique with these shocks minimizes a rough ride thereby maintaining control and stability. All these provide for a high quality shock absorber.
It will work well for most Jeeps because you can easily set the damping of the shock using the adjustment knob.
Key Features
- Twin tube shocks that ensure the shock does not fade due to foam formation during oil mixing
- Designed with nitrogen-gas charged pressure
- 25 inches body and a 1.375 inches internal dampening piston
- Fits 4WD vehicles
- Sold as a set of 4 RS5000X shocks with red boots custom tailored for your Jeep XJ.
Pros
- Tuning system according to your requirements
- The great stability offered by these shocks decrease the harsh effects of off-road driving
- Lifetime warranty
- Ideal for on-road and off-road use as well as for towing
Cons
- The adjustment knob might break off after some time
- A rather stiff ride as they are most suited for hitting the off-road
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Old Man Emu Nitrocharger'
The Old Man Emu Nitrocharger suspension systems are twin tube stable shocks that offer great control to drivers especially when driving at high speeds. A key part of these shocks is the triple oil seal which ensures consistent performance even at high temperatures.
The piston oil valve that is coated with Teflon is also another hallmark of these shocks. It is designed to ensure good oil flow through the discs thereby reducing heat creation. This is a notable feature as a shock absorber can easily fail due to too much heat which results in oil aeration.
The twin tube shocks also ensure a smooth ride as you glide over roads. To add, the installation process is simple. There is also a YouTube video on the same. They are a good fit for a Jeep XJ and give it a non-imposing lift. It allows for 1.5 inches lift at the front and 3 inches in the rear of the Jeep XJ.
Emphasis is placed on a better ride with more control and handling.
Key Features
- Heavy duty twin tube type
- Seamlessly works well during both off-road and on- road driving.
- Compatible with 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ
- A triple oil seal valve that eliminates the possibility of dirt entering through the piston rod during compression. Piston oil valve is also coated with Teflon ensuring good oil flow
Pros
- Smooth, comfortable ride compared to other shock absorbers on this list
- Durable due to several quality parts that prolong the service life of the shock absorber. An example is the triple oil seal valve and piston oil valve. It is exceptionally good for the off-road enthusiast
- 24,000 mile/2 year warranty
Cons
- U-bolts and leaf spring bushings are not included in the kit. Other products one might need include rear shackles, a track bar and coil spacers
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RANCHO RS9000XL
The Rancho RS9000XL is a heavy duty shock absorber. It is ideal for on- and off-road driving, loaded and unloaded as well as for towing. It is a 9-level adjustable series delivering nine levels of performance. The adjustable dampening enhances the key ride characteristics of this shock absorber
Key Feature
- Large heavy duty 18mm rod that increases corrosion protection and scuffing resistance
- Sold as a set of 4 RS9000XL shocks with red boots customized to fit your vehicle
- Double-welded loops to add strength and durability
- High gas pressurization that minimizes the air to oil mixture
Pros
- Soft, smooth ride
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Durable due to the low- friction, self-lubricating piston among other good quality parts
Con
Not re-buildable
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Skyjacker Shock Absorber
Skyjacker is a twin tube shock absorber with a red shock boot, chromed piston rod, red polyurethane bushings and bonded iron piston. Together, these parts work to ensure a stable, better ride. It is also durable. The bonded iron piston for instance increases durability of the shocks by reducing internal wear and tear.
They come as a set of 4 shocks with all necessary washers, bushings, and nuts included. The SkyJacker’s limited lifetime warranty guarantees against defects and premature failures/
Key Features
- Twin tube, hydro type shocks
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 150 PSI pressurized nitrogen gas
Pros
- Smooth ride
- Easy installation
- Highly durable
Cons
- Some parts may leak over time
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Factors to be considered when buying shocks for a Jeep XJ
Type of driving
As stated in the introductory paragraph, shocks for a Jeep XJ can be broadly categorized into mono tube and twin tube shocks. Mono tube shocks are good for the more adventurous drivers who are often off-road.
The twin tube on the flip side works wonderfully for daily driving and light off- road use. This is one factor to be considered when buying shocks for a Jeep XJ.
Car Lift and Size of Tires
Shock absorbers that give your car a lift thereby lowering its center of gravity ought to be high powered. Mono tube shocks are often ideal for lifted cars as they provide more stability and firmness even in high speeds.
Budget
There are many high end shock absorbers that are fitted with the latest suspension technology. However, there are also many cost efficient options that are good quality as well.
If you are on a tight budget and not too keen on fast driving on the off-road and on-road, a twin tube shock will get the job done.
Desired Look
If you are one who is keen on maintaining a certain look for your Jeep XJ, brands that retain that look are to be considered.
FAQ
What are the functions of a shock absorber on a Jeep XJ?
Shock absorbers do exactly that- absorb shock received from the terrain. Its function is directly related to the stability and control you experience with your car as well as oscillation reduction.
A shock absorber that is worn out or degenerate can lead to life threatening issues. These include poor support of the Jeep’s weight, rough vibrations and poor handling of curves and corners.
When do I need to change shocks on my Jeep XJ?
Aside from just desiring a new look, there are two scenarios that might prompt you to buy new shocks. First, if you lift your Jeep you will need longer travel shocks. Lifting your vehicle increases the distance between the mounting point and the axle. This in turn might lead to stability issues if you do not fit your Jeep XJ with firm, longer shocks.
Secondly, shock absorbers get worn out after normal usage. There are a few ways to tell if your shocks are worn out. One way is if your car does not stop bouncing up and down after even the slightest movement.
You can test this by pushing your car up and down from one corner. If the car does not become still after a reasonable time, you might want to check your shocks. Another telltale sign that your shocks need replacement is if they leak fluid.
Shock absorbers have seals on them that wear our after some time and lead to leakages. Finally, if you notice any weird clunking noises, you definitely need to replace your shocks as well.
What kind of shock is best suited for a Jeep XJ?
There are various factors to be considered when buying shock absorbers. The driver’s expected terrain is one key condition. Some shocks are well suited for off-road driving for the more adventurous driver while other shocks are a better fit for city driving.
For performance off-road, a mono tube will win out as it’s a shock less likely to fade and has superior dampening. A twin-tube on the other hand is the way to go if daily driving is your mainstay.
What is the installation process of these shocks?
All the products stated in this article come with a detailed manual. Depending on one’s expertise they can be installed within hours at home, or at your local dealership.
The owner's set of instructions that come with the shocks are nonetheless easy to understand and follow for these products. YouTube also has informative videos on the installation process of these shocks.
What is a refurbished shock absorber?
This refers to reconditioning a worn out shock absorber back to work. While this leads to a damper back to work, it is no easy task and it might lead to future problems. It is highly recommended to buy the Best Shocks for a Jeep XJ as stated above.
Conclusion
The choice of a shock absorber for Jeep XJ is no small feat. This article might not have made it easier by presenting many high quality options for your vehicle. However, choosing a shock absorber is something that should be done responsibly with a lot of thought put into it.
There is need to take into account all your expectations and requirements so as to get the right fit for you. There are shocks that offer great handling when going off-road while others provide great control for speeding on paved terrain. One’s budget also weighs heavily on choosing the right shock absorber.
There is need to study in detail the key features of the product you would like to purchase. Failure to do this might lead to the purchase of shocks that do not work the way you want them to or they might not even fit the height of your car!
