I've been reading regarding whether to use shock boots or not and most seem to believe that they tend to retain dirt, mud, & water leading to an early end for the shock. I felt that the shaft needed protection from being dinged by road debris and damaging the seal.

I simply cut off the lower portion of the boot that would normally be tie-wrapped to the shock body and around the remaining portion I used a leather punch to add drainage holes. Seems like I have the best of both worlds, shaft protection and the ability to self drain.......

 

very good idea. I never run them because of what you mentioned but you idea will change that

 

Crowhorse-freaking great idea. You may want to get that copyrighted and sell it to shock companies. Great marketing potential and NO ONE is doing it!

 

what about hose clamps at the top and bottom of the boot?

 

the boots on my bilstiens have a couple holes. not quite like that but they do the same thing.


you arent going to damage the shaft. grab one with a vise grip and twist it in circles, wont leave a scratch. the boot might help protect the seal from dust or thick mud but not in water crossings or soupy mud. for me shock boots are a look preference. on the XJ i dont have any but on the KK i have the rear boots because it looks cleaner.

 

Thats a big negative, rocks will eat shafts. I tore up many rear shocks in the JK from scaring the shafts on rocks.

 

i stand corrected i suppose. they are stupid tough though, theyre hardened steel. if a rock is gonna do that to the shock though the boot surely wont be saving it.

 

your absolutely right.

 

I got zipties on my new ranchos. Works great lol

 

For now, no clamps or tie-raps. My thought is to let it hang free.....