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Old 08-17-2012, 01:35 AM   #1
LOW 7FO
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Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

Hey guys, I have looked around and am tired of all the debating on which brand to use. I don't really care as long as they perform the duties of a shock.
I need to know who makes the shortest collapsed height shock. From what I have found so far it looks like Doetsch Tech takes the cake with 8.75". Is anyone running these with the 3" coil? This is in addition to my 3" DJM control arms fyi. Right now I am running the Belltech SP with a 2" coil, but when I put the 3" coil in that shock wont cut it at a 9.5" compressed height.
Thanks in advance I appreciate it.
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Old 08-17-2012, 10:38 AM   #2
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

I suggest you reconsider the 3" coil. I have never had nor heard of anyone say good things about 3" coils on our trucks. I prefer 2" coil and 3" spindle instead.
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Old 08-17-2012, 08:20 PM   #3
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

N2TRUX, what would be some negatives you have heard about 3" coils?
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Old 08-17-2012, 08:24 PM   #4
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

Once you reach about 3in of spring drop or more, you are at the limits of your alignment adjustability, i.e. not enough alignment bolt to add shims for caster and camber adj.
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Old 08-18-2012, 01:15 AM   #5
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

Quote:
Originally Posted by N2TRUX View Post
I suggest you reconsider the 3" coil. I have never had nor heard of anyone say good things about 3" coils on our trucks. I prefer 2" coil and 3" spindle instead.
I appreciate the input. A pic of your truck was on my parts list for idea's and suspension. I should mention that I only have 2 shims in right now on the UCA for proper alignment. I should have mentioned I have the upper control arms as well which, I think, help the issue of alignment. I really want the front a tad lower...maybe I will just give it a shot and worst case put the 2" coils back in. I already have the coils. Was this the only issue you have heard of is for the alignment? Or is the ride compromised as well? Thanks N2TRUX.
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Old 08-18-2012, 10:42 AM   #6
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

I'm glad my heap could offer inspiration. The ride is the biggest concern. That short of a spring has a stiff spring rate and a poor ride quality. Its best described as "extra firm". If you combine that with a short shock and low profile tires its just not a good combo for our trucks.
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Old 08-18-2012, 04:28 PM   #7
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

Would shock re-locators and full sized shocks help with the ride quality?
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Old 08-19-2012, 11:12 AM   #8
N2TRUX
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

I would think that it would, but I'm not sure how much. Trying to over come the stiffness of a short firm spring is hard to do.
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Old 08-19-2012, 11:27 AM   #9
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Re: Which Shocks with 3" Drop Coils?

Is there a huge difference in stiffness when comparing a 2" spring to a 3"? Would you be able to take a bandsaw to the 2" and remove 1" and maintain the 2" springs ride quality (assuming there is a difference between 2" and 3").
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