Shock Setup Question

[EXW]

OK, I've got a question on my shock setup that seems like it should be obvious but I can't figure it out. :?

I've been running with my shocks internally limited 0.5" and a ride height of 2.75". The problem is that at full extension I was only getting about 3" of belly clearance.

I removed the internal shock limiters and added 0.25" limiters to the outside of the shocks. My ride height is still at 2.75" but my full extension is about 3.75".

So far, all seems good...

The problem is that at full extension, the shocks get too long for the springs. So, the spring "comes loose" and then under compression needs to settle again. I haven't paid close enough attention to other's rigs to know if this is normal, but I'm guessing it's not.

I tried moving the shock collars down to better contain the springs but then I get too high of a ride height (about 3.2"). I guess I'm looking for the best of both worlds here: a medium ride height and a lot of extension for break-overs.

Here are some pictures. Any advice is welcome.

At rest


Full extension


Close up of the spring at full extension - notice the gap


Another shot of the shock at full flex


Thanks

EXW

[clockworks]

Softer springs will let the truck sit lower. You can then adjust the collars downwards to get the correct ride height, which should keep the springs under pressure at full droop.
You could also try fitting the shocks more upright - move the top mount forwards. You'll get less shock movement for the same wheel movement.

[bigbear]

the limiter outside the shock will only keep the shock from bottoming out

[EXW]

Thanks guys.

I ended up moving the shocks in one on the chasis so they are more laid down. I then threaded the shock collars down and put 0.5" external limiters on the shocks to keep the articulation about 50 degrees. This gives me a ride height of around 2.75" and a full extension of almost 3.5". Took it for a test drive and it seemed to work.

[SaxtonSlaughter]

You could also try fitting the shocks more upright - move the top mount forwards. You'll get less shock movement for the same wheel movement.[/QUOTE] Yep! That's right