Ordered Shocks: 2" Longer..is this an issue?
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Ordered Shocks: 2" Longer..is this an issue?
Just purchased a 97' F150 XLT 4.6l with about 90k. Primarily will be used as a backup for camping/hunting/home improvement trips.
I've replaced the rear shocks as they were rusted and clearly blown. Got to the fronts and ordered a set of Gabriel Ultra Trucks off Rockauto. I didn't check the specs prior but when installing the extended length was clearly longer than the OEM's I pulled off. They were also insanely more difficult to compress on install since there was so much force. I had to use a pry bar on the bottom mount to compress the shock and get the bottom bolt through. Comparing what was offered on RockAuto it seems the extended length is about 16.4" and most others in the Daily Driver category are 14.5". The Gabriels listed range from 15.5"-16.5" extended length. I'll admit I'm a casual DIYer on vehicles. Pretty much limited to basic repairs like valve cover gaskets, alternators, fluid changes and shocks.
Is this an issue? RA does say they are compatible but I'm wondering if it's intended for a truck with a lift or whether 2" longer shocks will put too much stress on other suspension components, brake lines, etc. That was the answer I got from AI when I googled it.. I only have one side installed and am debating whether I should just reorder shorter shocks that are closer to what I assume in OEM (I tried to cross reference the number that came off the motorcrafts and couldn't find the info). I'll admit I'm not smart enough to know whether this is an issue or not.
Thanks in advance!
I've replaced the rear shocks as they were rusted and clearly blown. Got to the fronts and ordered a set of Gabriel Ultra Trucks off Rockauto. I didn't check the specs prior but when installing the extended length was clearly longer than the OEM's I pulled off. They were also insanely more difficult to compress on install since there was so much force. I had to use a pry bar on the bottom mount to compress the shock and get the bottom bolt through. Comparing what was offered on RockAuto it seems the extended length is about 16.4" and most others in the Daily Driver category are 14.5". The Gabriels listed range from 15.5"-16.5" extended length. I'll admit I'm a casual DIYer on vehicles. Pretty much limited to basic repairs like valve cover gaskets, alternators, fluid changes and shocks.
Is this an issue? RA does say they are compatible but I'm wondering if it's intended for a truck with a lift or whether 2" longer shocks will put too much stress on other suspension components, brake lines, etc. That was the answer I got from AI when I googled it.. I only have one side installed and am debating whether I should just reorder shorter shocks that are closer to what I assume in OEM (I tried to cross reference the number that came off the motorcrafts and couldn't find the info). I'll admit I'm not smart enough to know whether this is an issue or not.
Thanks in advance!
