Rough Country Shock Installation: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide details installing Rough Country shocks‚ covering preparation‚ removal of old shocks‚ and installation of new ones.
It also includes post-installation checks and performance insights‚ ensuring a smooth and effective upgrade for your vehicle’s suspension.
Understanding Rough Country Shocks
Rough Country shocks are designed to enhance off-road performance and ride quality‚ offering a variety of options to suit different driving styles and vehicle applications. They are a popular choice for Jeep and Ram truck owners seeking improved suspension.
The N3 shock series‚ for example‚ provides a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. A key distinction lies in their damping characteristics: linear shocks maintain consistent firmness‚ while digressive shocks become softer upon impact.
Linear shocks‚ like the N3‚ are softer around town but firmer on the highway‚ offering a comfortable yet controlled ride. Digressive shocks are firmer initially‚ then soften‚ ideal for absorbing large bumps. Understanding these differences is crucial when selecting the right shock for your needs. Proper installation‚ as detailed in guides‚ is vital for optimal performance.
Types of Rough Country Shocks Available
Rough Country offers a diverse range of shocks catering to various needs and budgets. Performance 2.2 shocks are a popular entry-level option‚ providing an upgrade over stock without a significant price increase. These are often included in lift kits‚ like the 2.5-inch suspension lift for TJ Wranglers.
For more demanding applications‚ the N3 series provides enhanced performance with improved damping control. These shocks feature a larger bore and reinforced construction for increased durability. Hydro shocks‚ like those mentioned in JK-Forum discussions‚ offer adjustable settings for customized ride characteristics.
Choosing the right shock depends on your vehicle’s intended use and the level of performance desired; Consider whether you prioritize on-road comfort‚ off-road capability‚ or a balance of both; Correct orientation during installation‚ as noted by JK-Forum users‚ is critical for proper function.
Tools Required for Installation
Successfully installing Rough Country shocks requires a selection of standard automotive tools. A floor jack and jack stands are essential for safely lifting and supporting the vehicle‚ as highlighted in ExtremeTerrain’s installation guide. Wrenches‚ specifically a 13mm wrench for coil spring clip removal on TJ Wranglers‚ are crucial for disassembly.
Socket sets‚ including various sizes‚ will be needed for removing shock mounting hardware and control arm bolts. A torque wrench is vital for ensuring all fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. Penetrating oil can assist in loosening corroded bolts‚ particularly control arm bolts‚ as mentioned in forum discussions.
Additionally‚ safety glasses and gloves are recommended for personal protection. Depending on the vehicle and lift kit‚ you might also need a spring compressor for coil spring removal and installation. Having these tools prepared beforehand streamlines the installation process.
Safety Precautions Before Starting
Prioritizing safety is paramount when undertaking a Rough Country shock installation. Always work on a level surface and engage the parking brake firmly. Utilize jack stands after lifting the vehicle with a floor jack – never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Disconnecting the negative battery terminal prevents accidental electrical shorts.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris and gloves to safeguard your hands. Be mindful of stored energy in coil springs; proper spring compression tools are essential to avoid injury during removal and installation. When loosening control arm bolts‚ anticipate potential movement and secure components accordingly.
If you are unfamiliar with automotive repair‚ seek assistance from a qualified mechanic. Double-check all connections and ensure everything is securely fastened before lowering the vehicle. Following these precautions minimizes risks and ensures a safe installation process.
Pre-Installation Vehicle Preparation
Proper preparation involves lifting and securely supporting the vehicle‚ disconnecting sway bars‚ and carefully loosening control arm bolts‚ allowing for shock removal and installation.
Lifting and Supporting the Vehicle
Before commencing any work on the suspension‚ safely lifting and supporting the vehicle is paramount. Utilize a robust floor jack positioned on a designated jacking point‚ consulting your vehicle’s owner’s manual for correct placement.
Once lifted to a suitable height‚ immediately secure the vehicle with jack stands placed under the frame rails. Never work under a vehicle supported solely by a jack. Ensure the jack stands are firmly seated and capable of supporting the vehicle’s weight.
For rear shock installation‚ a floor jack supporting the axle is beneficial during coil spring removal‚ as noted in ExtremeTerrain’s instructions for TJ Wranglers. Double-check stability before proceeding‚ prioritizing safety throughout the entire process. Proper support prevents accidents and ensures a successful installation.
Disconnecting Sway Bars
Disconnecting the sway bars is a crucial step in preparing the vehicle for shock installation‚ providing necessary suspension articulation. This allows for easier removal and installation of the shocks‚ particularly when dealing with coil springs.
According to forum discussions on JLwranglerforums.com‚ loosening control arm bolts often accompanies sway bar disconnection. The specific method for disconnecting sway bars varies depending on the vehicle model‚ but generally involves unbolting the end links connecting the sway bar to the axle.
Carefully support the sway bar after disconnecting the links to prevent it from dropping and potentially causing damage. Remember to retain all hardware for reinstallation later. Proper disconnection facilitates smoother shock replacement and ensures optimal suspension function post-installation.
Loosening Control Arm Bolts
Loosening control arm bolts is a vital preparatory step for shock installation‚ enabling the suspension to articulate and relieving tension on the components. This process facilitates the removal of existing shocks and allows for proper alignment during the installation of new ones.
As noted in discussions on JLwranglerforums.com‚ this step often coincides with disconnecting the sway bars‚ creating more working room. It’s crucial not to fully remove the control arm bolts initially‚ but rather to loosen them sufficiently to allow for movement.
Ensure you use the correct size tools to avoid stripping the bolts. Support the vehicle securely before loosening these bolts‚ as shifting can occur. Remember to retighten these bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings after shock installation is complete‚ ensuring safe and stable vehicle handling.
Rear Shock Installation Process
Rear shock installation involves removing the old units‚ correctly orienting the new shocks (based on JK-Forum insights)‚ and reusing the lower mounting hardware for a secure fit.
Identifying Correct Shock Orientation (Based on JK-Forum feedback)
Determining the correct shock orientation is crucial for optimal performance‚ as highlighted by discussions on JK-Forum.com. Users have reported experiencing issues – specifically‚ a bouncy rear suspension – when attempting to install shocks with the shaft positioned on the bottom instead of the top.
This suggests that Rough Country shocks‚ and potentially others‚ are designed to function best with the shaft facing upwards. One user detailed how reversing the shock orientation caused excessive bouncing over dips and bumps. They resolved the issue by simply flipping the shock back to its original configuration‚ easily pushing the shaft into the reservoir after unbolting the bottom mount.
Notably‚ many shock installations lack specific directional instructions‚ making forum feedback invaluable. Therefore‚ it’s highly recommended to install the shocks with the shaft facing upwards to avoid potential handling problems and ensure a smooth‚ controlled ride. Prioritize this step for a successful installation.
Removing Existing Rear Shocks
Begin the rear shock removal process by safely lifting and supporting the vehicle‚ ensuring stability throughout the procedure. Once secured‚ utilize a floor jack positioned under the axle to provide additional support during shock removal‚ as detailed in ExtremeTerrain’s installation guides. This support is vital for controlled removal and prevents undue stress on the suspension components.
Start by loosening and removing the lower shock mounting bolts. Then‚ access the upper shock mounts‚ typically located within the vehicle’s body. Carefully disconnect these mounts‚ noting the original hardware for potential reuse. With both mounts detached‚ gently maneuver the old shock absorber free from the vehicle.
Remember to retain the factory lower mounting hardware‚ as it’s specified for reuse with the new Rough Country shocks. Repeat this process for the opposite side‚ ensuring both rear shocks are completely removed before proceeding to the installation phase.
Installing New Rear Shocks – Lower Mounting Hardware Reuse
With the old shocks removed‚ begin installing the new Rough Country rear shocks‚ utilizing the retained factory lower mounting hardware. Align the lower shock mount with the corresponding bracket on the axle and secure it using the original bolts. Ensure proper alignment before fully tightening the hardware.
Next‚ position the upper shock mount within its designated location in the vehicle’s body. Carefully align the shock’s upper bushing with the mounting point and secure it with the appropriate fasteners. Double-check alignment at both the upper and lower mounts before final tightening.
Based on JK-Forum feedback‚ pay close attention to shock orientation during installation. Incorrect orientation can negatively impact shock performance‚ causing unwanted bouncing or instability. Ensure the shock is installed correctly before proceeding. Once satisfied with the alignment‚ fully tighten all mounting hardware to the manufacturer’s specified torque.
Coil Spring Removal and Installation (TJ Wrangler Specific)
For TJ Wrangler installations‚ coil spring removal and installation are integral parts of the front shock replacement process. After supporting the axle with a floor jack‚ remove the front shock absorbers‚ retaining the factory lower mounting hardware for reuse‚ as per ExtremeTerrain instructions.
Locate and remove the coil spring clip situated on the bottom coil seat‚ utilizing a 13mm wrench on the driver’s side. Carefully lower the axle to relieve tension and then remove the existing coil spring. Exercise caution during this step‚ as the coil spring is under significant pressure.
Install the new front progressive rate coil spring‚ ensuring it seats correctly within the spring perches. Reinstall the coil spring clip to secure the spring in place. Double-check the spring’s seating and clip engagement before proceeding‚ ensuring a safe and stable suspension setup.
Front Shock Installation Process
Removing existing front shocks involves supporting the axle with a jack and retaining factory lower hardware. Installing new shocks completes the front suspension upgrade‚ enhancing vehicle performance.
Removing Existing Front Shocks
Before beginning the removal process‚ ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported using jack stands. This is a critical safety step. Position a floor jack underneath the front axle to provide additional support during shock removal‚ as this will help control the axle’s movement.
Carefully disconnect the shock’s upper mounting point‚ typically involving bolts or studs. Then‚ proceed to disconnect the lower mounting point. Remember to retain the factory lower mounting hardware‚ as the instructions specifically state it is for re-use with the new Rough Country shocks.
Once both mounting points are detached‚ gently maneuver the old shock absorber out of its position. Be mindful of any surrounding components and avoid causing damage. With the shock removed‚ you are now prepared to install the new Rough Country front shocks‚ continuing the upgrade process.
Installing New Front Shocks
With the old shocks removed‚ carefully position the new Rough Country front shocks into place. Align the lower mounting holes with the retained factory hardware. Securely fasten the shocks using the original bolts‚ ensuring they are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque.
Next‚ align the upper mounting holes and install the necessary hardware to secure the top of the shock. Double-check that all bolts are properly tightened‚ guaranteeing a stable and safe connection.
Following installation‚ verify that the shocks are correctly oriented and functioning without any obstructions. If installing with new coil springs‚ ensure the coil spring clip is properly seated before lowering the axle. This completes the front shock installation‚ preparing you for the rear shock installation and final vehicle inspection.
Post-Installation Procedures
After shock installation‚ reconnect sway bars and tighten control arm bolts to factory specifications. Inspect all connections and test drive to verify performance.
Reconnecting Sway Bars
Reattaching the sway bars is a crucial step post-shock installation‚ restoring vehicle stability and handling characteristics. Begin by carefully aligning the sway bar links with their corresponding mounting points on the axle and frame. Ensure the links are free of any debris or damage that could hinder proper connection.
Securely fasten the sway bar links using the original hardware‚ tightening the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings. (Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for these values.) Double-check that all bolts are fully tightened to prevent unwanted movement or noise during operation.
A loose sway bar connection can lead to excessive body roll and compromised handling‚ especially during cornering. Therefore‚ meticulous attention to detail during this step is paramount. Once reconnected‚ visually inspect the sway bar setup to confirm everything is correctly positioned and secured before proceeding to the final vehicle inspection.
Tightening Control Arm Bolts
After completing the shock installation‚ meticulously tightening the control arm bolts is paramount for vehicle safety and proper suspension function. These bolts are critical for maintaining wheel alignment and ensuring stable handling. Begin by referencing your vehicle’s service manual for the precise torque specifications for each control arm bolt – do not rely on guesswork!
Using a torque wrench‚ systematically tighten each bolt in a crisscross pattern. This ensures even pressure distribution and prevents warping of the control arm brackets. Double-check each bolt after the initial tightening to confirm accuracy.
Insufficiently tightened bolts can lead to suspension instability‚ premature wear‚ and potential component failure. Conversely‚ over-tightening can strip threads or damage the bolts themselves. Therefore‚ precise torque application is essential for a reliable and safe outcome.
Shock Performance Characteristics (N3 Shocks ⏤ Linear vs. Digressive)
Rough Country N3 shocks offer distinct performance profiles‚ categorized as either linear or digressive‚ impacting ride quality and handling. Linear shocks maintain consistent damping force throughout the compression and rebound cycles‚ providing a softer ride around town but firmer control on the highway. This characteristic makes them suitable for daily driving and moderate off-road use.
Conversely‚ digressive shocks exhibit firmer damping at low speeds‚ ideal for controlling body roll and maintaining stability during initial impacts. As the shock compresses faster‚ the damping force decreases‚ offering a softer feel over larger bumps.
Choosing between linear and digressive depends on your driving style and terrain. N3 shocks represent a good OEM replacement with a lift‚ offering a balance of comfort and capability.
Final Vehicle Inspection
After completing the Rough Country shock installation‚ a thorough vehicle inspection is crucial for safety and optimal performance. Begin by visually confirming all shock mounting hardware is securely fastened‚ checking both upper and lower bolts for proper torque. Inspect sway bar connections‚ ensuring they are correctly reconnected and tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Next‚ carefully examine the control arm bolts‚ verifying they are tightened to the recommended torque settings. Lower the vehicle slowly and check for any unusual noises or binding during suspension compression and rebound.
Finally‚ perform a test drive on a variety of road surfaces‚ paying attention to handling‚ stability‚ and ride comfort. Address any issues immediately to guarantee a safe and enjoyable driving experience.