1994 suspension questions

[quinn2]

i’ve got a 1994 4x4 with a 1.5in level. i’ve been looking for new shocks for it but thought i’d ask a few questions before i buy anything. my plan is to get duff 8115 for the rear and rancho rs5000s the front but ive heard they ride really stiff? I eventually want to add some travel but im not sure what all i’d need. if anyone knows an easy way to get a few more inches out of the shocks that would be great. also if anyone has good shock recommendations that would fit that would also be appreciated.

thanks

 

[MaicoDoug]

Rancho rs5000s are adjustable, simply turn the piston end a click CCW, middle, then CW. 3 settings, soft, medium & firm. They do have less than standard 60/40 compression valving. More compression dampening that I would use.

 

[gaz]

@quinn2
TIRE SIZE SETS THE PACE FOR LIFT NECESSITY

If your using Duff 70/30's in the rear not using them in the front would be a CRIME!

A 1994 Ranger will benefit from dual Duff 70/30's in front and either dual 70/30's or single 70/30's in the rear. I've tried both Rancho RS5000 and RS7000's and could not stand the ride in any configuration or setting on a 1st gen Ranger suspension, which to my knowledge, bar the front sway bar configuration is exactly the same as the 1994.

Shocks aren't the cheapest components and can last surprising long. I recommend deciding what you want for lift first as that will save you money in the long run.

Your tire size choice will determine the amount of lift required. Up to 31" rubber on a 1st gen suspension with a 4" setup, feels very good, may need the slightest fender trim...depending on how aggressive the driving will be; if I know that I will be using 35" rubber, then I would choose a 6" system from the start. For 32" and 33" a little more planning and thought should be employed as 4" will not clear without more aggressive fender trimming.

 

[quinn2]

I contacted duff to see if I could fit single 8111s in the front but they said it wouldn't work unless I got different shock towers or a lift. im running 33s with cut fenders, Im pretty happy with how it sits now, just wanted a smoother ride. if there's a way to make the duffs fit without welding or fab then I would do that but it seems like it would get expensive.

 

[scotts90ranger]

The Skyjacker Nitro shocks are a bit stiffer than most because of the nitrogen charge apparently which I think works for the TTB suspension, they're cheap but my '90 rides good with them... You'd need shorter than I got so I'm not gonna post the number I got...

Leveling springs are known to be pretty stiff which is going to limit suspension travel. If the shocks are your limiting factor there's no way to get more out of them aside from more lift or moving the upper mount higher so you can use longer shocks... moving the upper mount can be as simple as adding an "F250 shock mount" which I think are still available? I've seen people using them, they used to be stupid cheap but I don't know about anymore since nothing is cheap...

 

[4x4junkie]

The Skyjacker Nitro shocks are a bit stiffer than most because of the nitrogen charge apparently which I think works for the TTB suspension, they're cheap but my '90 rides good with them... You'd need shorter than I got so I'm not gonna post the number I got...

Leveling springs are known to be pretty stiff which is going to limit suspension travel. If the shocks are your limiting factor there's no way to get more out of them aside from more lift or moving the upper mount higher so you can use longer shocks... moving the upper mount can be as simple as adding an "F250 shock mount" which I think are still available? I've seen people using them, they used to be stupid cheap but I don't know about anymore since nothing is cheap...

Not from Ford, but Dorman (and some others) are making the F-250 mounts. ~$40-55/pr. currently

More Information for DORMAN SM851000PR

Skyjacker has some newer shock designs out since the Nitro now. I think the M95 is a pretty good value in an uplevel shock. It should ride firm & controlled, but not jarring.
https://skyjacker.com/shop/shocks/m...ube-high-pressure-nitrogen-gas-charged-shock/ (fits 0"-2" lift)
At 15.3" extended length, that should provide right about two additional inches of downtravel vs. with stock (14.0" ext) shocks. If you're looking for more travel than that, then yeah you'll need to start modifying stuff.

I've heard the same thing myself about JD shocks (stiff) but don't have personal experience.

 

[bobbywalter]

are the shocks maxing out down on you???


usually you bottom more out then up in this case....with the 1-2 in lift...

Amazon.com

those will get you by untill you decide on a final setup.

 

[quinn2]

thanks for all the info, Ill plan on getting the duffs for the rear and eventually doing the f250 mounts with duffs in the front sometime soon.