1972, 1973, 1974, 1975 CJ5 Shock Dimension Comparison

I charted the dimensions I came across while trying to determine which replacement shocks (stock) I need for my '73 CJ5.
I'm assuming these shocks will fit '72 - '75, If anyone sees any errors please give me a shout.

_Dan

 

thanks for the post. i'm hoping the ones from my old '66 cj5 will mount up to my '73 cj5 frame and suspension.

 

There is some interesting info here ... not necessarily about the brands, but about the lengths.

Notice the extended length cannot be any longer than twice the collapsed length. Some brands come closer to the ideal 2x length ratio. You also can't use a shock absorber with a collapsed length longer than the distance between the pins with the spring fully compressed (ie the axle smashed into the axle stop).

Now, different manufacturers have different numbers for their recommended front shock collapsed length. Skyjacker is the longest, at 12.07", with a 19.07" extended length and 7" of travel. So basically they are all selling front shocks with 7" or less of travel. Interestingly, Rancho has the shortest travel, possibly because the fancy adjustable feature needs extra room inside the shock absorber.

Now, you look at the Skyjacker 1" lift shocks, and they have a 9" travel and you think "Great! With my 1" lift I can get 1" extra ride height and 2" longer suspension travel!" But you are not finished yet. To use those shocks, you must space the axle bump stops down 1" so that the axle travel is stopped by the bump stop, not by the shock bottoming out. The downward travel really is increased by 2" though.

If you want to use a longer shock, just put the top shock mount on a tower above the frame. Then you can use pretty much any length shock you want, as long as the shock you pick does not bottom out before the axle hits the stop.