Rear shock valving?

[corax]

OK, here's the scenario . . . I just got a set of OME Dakars for the rear and finally have everything for the install, except the shocks. Since the Dakars have 4 main leaves and 2 overload leaves I might try them as is or remove the 2 overloads + 1 main leaf - either way before I can drive it I'll need to weld on new shock mounts (did I mention I'm also doing a Marlin u-bolt flip right away?). Before I weld the shock mounts I need to figure out how much travel I can get and weld the mounts accordingly so the shock length isn't a limiting factor (shock mounts welded low if need be to compensate for shock length needed for the stroke I want).

My question is if anyone can suggest shock valving . . . I've heard I should run softer valved shocks for the Dakars or I'll get a rough ride (duh!) I'd like to run Bilstein 5150's, which come in 2 flavors: 170/60 and 255/70 - obviously the 170/60 is softer, but I'm not sure if that is too soft. I'm also wondering if these are re-valvable, though I suspect they are not (no visible way of re-pressurizing the shock). I am open to suggestions if anyone cares to chime in . . . and no, I don't want to just buy the OME shocks. That would be too easy

http://www.eshocks.com/images/off-road/5150-500-Wide.jpg

Since these have threaded ends on the shock, I'm going to see if the Heim rod ends for Bilstein "small body" shocks (http://www.speedwaymotors.com/SMALL-BODY-BEARING-ENDS,8545.html) (racing app) will fit
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/RS/SR/Product/213193252002_R.jpg

I also have the Energy Suspension bumpstops to use with this set-up.
http://www.suspension.com/9-9109B.jpg

I want to get this done and ditch the LSPV before I mount up the aux tank (though it's already drilled and ready) so I need to get moving on this soon

[Good Times]

Keith,

I have no clue if those are rebuildable but I'm sure all shocks are somewhat rebuildable right? ;) Then again I thought all Billies were rebuildable.

How much weight do you have in the rear? If you're running lean then I'd say 255/70 would be good but if you've got a lot of weight back there (we're talking serious added weight) then 255/70's may not cut it. I have read a lot of ttora guys using 255/70's on their tacoma's so depending on how much more weight you'll have in comparison to the tacoma's, that should give you some idea of where your valving should be.

I believe Bilstein's next range up is in the 360/60(?) and that might be a bit much. You can give them a call directly and they can set you up with some new shims that you can install (if they're rebuildable) and go custom too. When I had my 7100's they helped me dial in the rear and sent me all of the goodies I needed to make sure I can revalve mine correctly so give them a buzz.

[corax]

The more I look at them, I really don't think they are rebuildable since I don't see any way to get the nitrogen charge in . . . I may find something though once I have them in my greedy little hands

I think the Taco's are a bit heavier than my 1st gen 4runner (4,000lbs on a free Oregon truck scale a few months ago). Everything I've read says to go with lighter valving on the OME's and the 5150's are only available in 177/60 and 255/70. The Billie guide (http://www.bilstein.com/ValvingQuickReferenceChart.pdf) says 177/60 for comfort and 255/70 for performance (aggressive,high speed off-road). Since I drive like an A-hole on and off road, I think I'll probably be able to deal with the stiffer shocks (especially since I'll no longer be bottoming out with the flat OEM leaves anymore) . . . if not, I'll have a set of 11.5" stroke 5150's for sale in the near future.

[Good Times]

Sounds like you're all set :)



so you're one of those drivers that loves to cut me off eh? :tapedshut:

[corax]

so you're one of those drivers that loves to cut me off eh? :tapedshut:


Nah, I'm very safe and courteous around other drivers, but get me on a backroad by myself or give me a some room on a highway . . .
:4x:

[YotaFun]

Nah, I'm very safe and courteous around other drivers, but get me on a backroad by myself or give me a some room on a highway . . .
:4x:


Or have him keep up with me on trails at Rausch...

[4skunkr]

double up on the softer valved shocks -- 2 per wheel and you'll be amazed how well it works than the stiffer valved one.

[corax]

double up on the softer valved shocks -- 2 per wheel and you'll be amazed how well it works than the stiffer valved one.


Nah, never liked dual shocks. Besides they won't work with the 14 gal aux fuel tank I have