Rebuildable Shock Buyer's Guide

Believe it or not, at one time there was no such thing as a rebuildable off-road shock available for consumer use. For many years, these units were for the dedicated off-road racer only -- the person who had the budget to afford them, the staff to rebuild them, and the knowledge to set them up for their optimum performance. As these items have become more mainstream throughout the marketplace, they have become more accessible to consumers for their daily drivers. Their performance, maintenance, and affordability have been able to keep up with their supply and demand, while continuing to improve the products for new applications and vehicles as well.

This month we have assembled a sampling of some of today's most popular rebuildable shocks, taking into consideration their construction types, features, and other key points that distinguish them from each other.

Pro Comp MX20R Shocks

Shock Type: Monotube
Size (Body Diameter): 2-inch
Eyelet Bore Size: Application-specific
Eyelet Type: Teflon-lined 4130 spherical bearing
Adjustable: No
Reservoir: Yes

Additional Features:
-Customer rebuildable with simple handtools
-Nitrogen gas charged to 200 psi
-Application-specific lengths
-Reservoir provides additional oil for cooling and keeps nitrogen and oil separate for superior performance
-Critical internal shock seals provided in Viton for maximum sealing performance

For more information, contact: Pro Comp Suspension, (800) 776-0767, www.explorerprocomp.com

Radflo 2.0 Shocks

Shock Type: Monotube
Size (Body Diameter): 2-inch
Eyelet Bore Size: 5/8 inch
Eyelet Type: Brass- and Teflon-coated spherical bearing
Adjustable: No
Reservoir: Yes

Additional Features:
-Radflo "Freeflo" racing piston
-Cadium finish for durability and aesthetics
-Available in a coilover configuration with aluminum-machined finish and Nylatron spring sliders
-Five- and six-stage velocity-sensitive independent rebound and compression

For more information, contact: Radflo Suspension Technology, (714) 965-7828, www.radflo.com

FOA 2.5 Shocks

Shock Type: Monotube
Size (Body Diameter): 2.5-inch
Eyelet Bore Size: 9/16 inch without sleeves, 1/2 inch with sleeves
Eyelet Type: Teflon-lined 4130 spherical bearing
Adjustable: No
Reservoir: Yes

Additional Features:
-High-pressure cast shock ends
-Revalvable and rebuildable piston/shim arrangement
-Reservoir ensures consistent performance for demanding off-roading
-Buna-N seals that withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees F

For more information, contact: FOA Shock Absorbers, (760) 608-2188, www.f-o-a.com

Pure Performance

Shock Type: Fluted Monotube
Size (Body Diameter): 2.625-inch
Eyelet Bore Size: 1/2 inch with sleeve
Eyelet Type: Spherical bearing
Adjustable: No
Reservoir: Optional

Additional Features:
-Aluminum body
-Tubular shaft design
-8-16 inches of travel
-Fluted aluminum tubing body adds structure to body

For more information, contact: Pure Performance, (518) 270-9822, www.pure-performance.biz