Is it time to replace shocks and springs? If so, with what?

Jeepiknight

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I have a 2004 TJ Sahara with 112k miles is it time to replace shocks and springs? And if so with what? Most of my driving is long distance on highways and then on forestry, gravel or dirt roads in National Parks. Thanks 😊
 
Most common answer will be Rancho 5000X shocks, springs will vary. It is the shocks that make the ride difference. I did pair the Ranchos with H & R 1" lift springs and am very happy with them. Ranch usually runs a buy 3 get one free sale through it's dealers a few times a year.

Below are some links....not necessarily the cheapest places but to show you what they are.

https://www.xf_vendor_spam_manageme...Rancho-Shocks-TJ-LJ/Rancho-5000X-Shocks-TJ-LJ
https://www.tirerack.com/suspension...toModel=Wrangler+X&autoYear=2005&autoModClar=
 
At 112k I don't think the springs would be bad, but I would think the shocks could use a replacement. If so, I would replace them with the popular (and cheap) Rancho RS5000X shocks.

For 0-1" lifts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01963XI50/?tag=wranglerorg-20

For 2-3" lifts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01963N4ZY/?tag=wranglerorg-20

For 4-5" lifts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JBLRGH8/?tag=wranglerorg-20

If you do replace the springs, I'd go with the Moog 3226 and Moog 3227 as Rob suggests below (assuming it's stock height.
 
+1 for Rancho 5000x shocks (the no lift set linked above) paired with Moog 3226/3227 springs. I got a nice little 1/2"-1" bump in ride height from the Moog springs and you can't beat the price for what you get with those two paired together. My Jeep is otherwise stock if that helps.
 
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What is the criteria for deciding if the springs need replacing?
 
I just replaced my shocks at 133k and they were worn out. I went with the Ranch 5000x and can not believe the ride difference. Highly recommended.
 
Measure the spring height. But if they have settled a bit but you like the ride then some spacers could put the height back.
 
Top and bottom of the spring as best you can.
What are the dims for spring? What is the measurement for a good one in the loaded position (installed)?
When I replaced my shocks (original@133k), I found one to be stuck in the collapsed position and the other was free floating with nothing left inside. When I pulled the collapsed shock, my spring released and I lost the 2 inch rake I had on the front of the Jeep. If you don’t know the condition of your shocks, I’m not sure you can get a good measurement. If the shocks are removed, great, but I’ve not seen any thing that states it should be certain length. Add a bumper and winch and those measurements will change. In my mind there are lots of things that can impact this. I would think it’s more of a performance issue or spacing issue at the tires. I’m new to Jeeps so I’m still learning and probably am over thinking the issue.
 
Sounds like the seized shock was an anomaly. Shocks don't usually affect ride height. And as far as measuring spring height with things added, like bumpers, winch, etc., of course you need to measure with those on unless you plan to remove them. How else are you going to know what you need...
 
STOCK TJ front springs are 12". Rear springs are 8". You can lift/lower if you want, but those numbers will give you a stock ride height.👍
 
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Is there another, longer, option with Moog springs to compensate for bumpers/winch etc? Or just add spacers?
 
Is there another, longer, option with Moog springs to compensate for bumpers/winch etc? Or just add spacers?

Do you mean like to accomodate the extra weight of those mods? If so, you might check the ones I used (Moog 3226 and Moog 3227) when I redid my shocks and springs - as I understand it, those springs were spec'd for Rubicons and have a higher load rate. If you're looking for stock height but with ones that can bear the additional load, you might look into those.
 
Do you mean like to accomodate the extra weight of those mods? If so, you might check the ones I used (Moog 3226 and Moog 3227) when I redid my shocks and springs - as I understand it, those springs were spec'd for Rubicons and have a higher load rate. If you're looking for stock height but with ones that can bear the additional load, you might look into those.

I will check them out. You didn’t gain any height using those?

I looked up ACOS, those things are sweet!
 
At 112k I don't think the springs would be bad, but I would think the shocks could use a replacement. If so, I would replace them with the popular (and cheap) Rancho RS5000X shocks.

For 0-1" lifts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01963XI50/?tag=wranglerorg-20

For 2-3" lifts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01963N4ZY/?tag=wranglerorg-20

For 4-5" lifts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JBLRGH8/?tag=wranglerorg-20

If you do replace the springs, I'd go with the Moog 3226 and Moog 3227 as Rob suggests below (assuming it's stock height.

Thanks for the links for the different size lifts. I want to replace mine one day but never really knew what size to get for a stock Jeep. This helps a lot. Well helps that I just added to my wish list so now I just need to get the money saved up. :D
 
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I will check them out. You didn’t gain any height using those?

I looked up ACOS, those things are sweet!

I gained somewhere between a 1/2" and 1" - I replaced the original stock springs though so it may be from that. I like the height it rides at now, it's definitely a tad higher than some of the other stock rigs I've come across but still pretty close to original.

If I could do it over, I'd probably opt for the H&R 1" springs which actually do result in a small lift. They were just more expensive and not in the budget at the time.
 
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