i need new shocks

[fordboi415]

im trying to buy new shocks but i have no idea how long they need to be. I have a 2001 ford ranger 2wd ext. cab 3.0V.6, i have 3inch lift spindles and 2inch lift coils so 5inches of lift total. Now the problem im having is i know i need longer shocks due to the lift coils but im not sure if the spindles are going to require the same thing. the truck is sitting level in the street and i measured from the top mount to the bottom mount and came up with somewhere around 17" and thats not fully extended. any tips on how to get an accurate measurement?

 

[ILLEGALCONCEPTS]

The spindle won't change the distance the shock travels. Get shocks that are 2-3" longer then stock. You could disconnect the shock and compress the suspension for min length, allow it to droop for maximum and take a measurement while its sitting on the ground for normal height.

James