I just picked up a set of Bilstein 5125's for my XJ and was wondering whether or not to use the shock boots that came with the shocks. I've always heard not to use them, but no body could tell me why. I personally don't like the way the look, but I just spent a lot of money on these things and want them to last. So do they help keep dirt out or are they just a waste?

 

The whole no boot idea is that you can spray them off easily after wheeling. And that the boots hold dirt in. There is some truth but I would still go with boots as I like the looks.

 

Boots trap dirt and will eventually eat at the seal. Once that shock starts leaking its junk. I wouldn't run boots

 

i recently started running boots, i orgionally did it for looks as i had heard all the common gripes. also bc my old shocks rusted real bad from exposure to the elements. i used some real heavy duty zip ties so i know theyll hold and pulled em down over the shock itself and basically right to the upper mount on the opposite side. and have had no issues with anything getting stuck in them or any rust issues.

 

I don't think boots make a difference. I have boots because I like the way they look. Use hose clamps instead of zip ties. if you think you have a bunch of junk trapped loosen the hose claps, push the boots up and wash.