Sandbox1

I have been doing my research in preparation to purchase coilovers to lift/level my truck. However, before I drop the money on a pricey setup I wanted to get some input on how salt will effect the housings.


I from Massachusetts and I had thought my mind was set on the Boss Coilovers. But after having had the zinc plated Bilstein 5100's on my previous truck start looking like crap within a year or two I'm reconsidering.


So my questions are:


1. Is there a method to treating/protecting a zinc plated product so it will not breakdown? As much as I'd like to wash the truck consistently during the winter months, it can't be done.


2. Are there options for covering the coils for the winter months? If so how well does that work?


3. Does anyone have recommendations for a comparable product to the Boss that will better withstand salt conditions?


Thanks in advance

MCDavis

iTrader: (1)

Alex hit you with a response here:
https://www.f150forum.com/f38/f150li...6/#post4044440

I gave you a touch of feedback here:
https://www.f150forum.com/f38/f150li...6/#post4044898

The other options are Fox and Icon. A little Fluid Film (you can find it in spray form from O'Reillys) can really go a long way in preventing corrosion.

Sandbox1

I did see the responses in the Boss thread. I started this thread to see if anyone else has had experience with what I'm talking about. Or to see what people have to say about other coilover manufacturers.

NASSTY

I know what you're talking about. This is what the 5100's on my Bronco looked like after a couple winters.

Sandbox1

Also, since Alex said (see link) back when the coils were beginning production. I wanted to see if anyone could attest to the degradation of the zinc on this specific product.

https://www.f150forum.com/f38/f150li...9/#post3558646

NE Ford

Sub'd. In the same boat. I know Icon has a neoprene coilover cover that adds a bit of protection during the winter months. If I remember correctly they are like $60 each or something.

torinalth

They are brand new so at most they will all only have one single season (ongoing for some people). I've not had a lot but some ice/snow/sand/salt dealings over the past couple months. I'll check in a bit and see if I see anything.

torinalth

So, took a quick peek and the shafts and springs are fine. no issues there. There is some mild corrosion on the lower ball joint. I'll have the wheels off this weekend so I can give more details of there is any when I can get a closer look. The corrosion seems to be mainly where the outer bushings come in contact with the spherical bearing (can pretty much ignore that), and where the internal spherical bearing comes in contact with it's own housing/bearing retainer. it still articulates fine and no noise, but i'll keep an eye on it over time.

But come on, it's not going to look flawless for all time. It's under a truck

TuxBlackFX4

Maybe just hit them with a hose every so often? I pull in to the self service wash and for $5 I power wash the under side of the truck and wheel wells pretty often in winter. Southern NY pounds the roads with salt, and it seems to help.

HaloLifts

We have talked about this honestly from day one. We have taken every precaution one can, doing the best zinc finish available. I have said numerous times we sell the neoprene wetsuit wraps for those in harsh conditions. We can always rebuild a coilover for you if it was sent in, re-powdercoat the springs and install a brand new shock. Looks and is brand new again.