I have a shock question. On my TJ I installed a zone kit with nitro shocks. On my XJ I bought but have not yet installed the zone kit with hydro shocks. The nitros seemed to expand automatically and take a lot of pressure to compress. This makes sense to me because I would think the shocks would create a downward dampening effect. The hydro shocks (not installed yet)don't expand automatically and seem to take a lot of force to open up but very little pressure to compress. Is this normal? Why so little pressure to compress? Sorry if it's a dumb question.

 

Nitro shocks are pressurized gas, thats why they return once compressed.
Hydros are liquid filled so therefore not pressurized.

Hydros are softer on toad but wear quicker offroad because the fluid "heats up" as the piston cycles rapidly. (Shock Fade/failure)

Nitros are stiffer on road because of the pressure but last longer offroad because the gasses do not "heat up: like Hydros.