Tbone289

I found them. It doesn't appear that the JK front shocks really give you any more travel. These numbers are quoted from various websites, so I can't confirm accuracy.:


For comparison, here are the Bilstein 5100 specs for 2-3" lift:


Front Shocks:
Series: 5100
Front Extended Length(in): 22.09
Front Collapsed Length(in): 13.58
Travel: 8.51"
Part Number: 24-185622


Rear Shocks:
Series: 5100
Extended Length(in): 21.85
Collapsed Length(in): 13.68
Travel: 8.17"
Part Number: 24-185639

xjnm

Does anyone have experience using the red jk rubicon shocks with a 2" lift? It seems like in general, 2" goes with black jk shocks and 3" goes with red rubicon shocks. I want to try to run the red ones because I have heard they are nicer shocks, but I have a 2" lift. It seems like the front ones would work better than the rears based on the above info ^^

Tbone289

The red front shocks should work fine for 1-2" lifts, front and rear. The red rear shock should work fine for 2-3" lifts. The extended length of the fronts would be a bit short for a 3" lift, and the collapsed length of the rears might be a bit long for 1" lifts.

krazo

so, if Im understanding you correctly, on the 'up country' set up, the red JK front shocks would work well, with a spacer. BUT in the rear, the better choice, or better fit due to the collapsed/extended length, would be the black JK shocks.

for me specifically what makes the most sense in the rear? Im going with the crown leafs & fat bobs .75" lift shackles. I would estimate a near 2" lift in the back. i think i could prob use either the black or red in the rear, only difference is I would need to adjust the bump stop. but really i wouldnt think Id want to limit the leafs too much with the bump, so maybe the black shocks would be a better choice....? sound reasonable?

Tbone289

Don't overthink it. Either will work for you if you set your bumpstops properly.

Bumpstops usually aren't as important on the XJ rear axle as the front due to the angle of the shocks. The shock doesn't stroke as much as the axle does. Just set enough bump to ensure that you're not bottoming the shock or severely inverting the leafs, and you're good.

SteveMongr

I ordered a set of red rubicons for a WJ with 2"lift. (WJ and XJ shocks are nearly identical in size and mounting, however the weight of WJ is closer to the JK). I also have a Bilstein for 2" lift to make comparisons.
The reds are a monotube shock, not sure about the blacks. If the blacks are also monotube than it must be the psi that is different, reds being more firm.

Set of four reds cost me $67 delivered.
Here are a few more sets for anyone in need.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2007-2016-J...s/263651054320
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2007-2016-J....c100005.m1851
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2007-2016-J....c100005.m1851

Tbone289

There's also a slight difference in length black vs. red. I believe the blacks are also monotube.

xjnm

So basically the reds are good to go for a 2"? I think I'll get those and then just mess with the bumpstops a little bit.

Tbone289

They should work well for 2". I think you'll be pleased.

xjnm

Ok, thank you.

CRLAMBERTJR

I don't see any reason why I couldn't go ahead and replace my shocks with the black ones, wo BPEs before I do my lift ? I have a steering drift problem on the highway. I'm wondering if the new shocks would help ? Also want to replace the dampener. On my 79CJ5, I had to adjust the over the center on the steering box to fix it.

cruiser54

Go for it.

CRLAMBERTJR

Cruiser, you do know that you're my guardian angel now ??? Time to get the Kryloil out !!!

EZEARL

If the upper rear bolts break do this. I didn't have wire so used duct tape.
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/d...repair-556807/

Tbone289

It's not likely that it will help steering drift.