Jan. 13, 2025
Shock absorbers are important elements for the safety of a vehicle. The shock absorber is a device that dampens the vibrations and shocks that occur as the wheel goes over bumps, potholes, and other road imperfections. Shock absorbers connect the wheels and springs to the chassis. As the vehicle travels, the springs bounce according to the variation in the ground surface resulting in vibrations at the wheels. The job of the shock absorber is to smoothen out these constant and sudden changes in wheel movement, providing a plush ride. Shock absorber assists in keeping the cars tires in permanent contact with the road, helping to provide optimum grip, when cornering and braking.
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The arrangement of the springs and shock absorbers can vary based on the suspension system and also from the front to the rear of a vehicle. The shock absorbers can be either mounted separately from the springs or be integrated with the springs. Shock absorbers with integrated coil springs are called struts and are commonly used on McPherson-type suspension systems. Struts are structural suspension components since they carry the weight of the vehicle as well as act as traditional shock absorbers. Struts are mostly used on the front wheels of many modern vehicles due to their simple and effective design.
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Shock absorbers are integral suspension system components that dictate many important suspension and vehicle characteristics. This is why they can be classified based on many different categories. The most important categories are as follows:
Certain shock absorbers are structural components of the vehicle like a strut and so the construction can vary according to the suspension type. Essentially there are three types of shocks that can be distinguished based on construction: Spring-seated or coilovers, struts, and shock absorbers. Shock absorbers have a chamber with a piston. This chamber is filled with some sort of fluid that resists the movement of the piston arm. Struts and coilovers have a shock absorber as the main component but the construction is varied. They usually have coil springs attached to the housing.
The difference between struts and coilovers is that struts are designed to bear larger side loads and are mounted directly to the vehicles chassis. Coilovers are commonly used in place of conventional shock absorbers and also replace the factory suspension springs. An advantage of this arrangement is the adjustability of the ride height. By altering the spring length, you can change the ride height of the car. Struts can be further classified into repairable and non-repairable types where the repairable ones allow the replacement of individual components like springs and shock absorbers.
Shock absorbers can be classified based on the internal design of the chamber that produces many different types of shock absorbers. The most common types are Mono-tube and Twin-Tube shock absorbers. Mono-tube shocks have a single tube in which the piston is suspended, whereas in the twin-tube design there are two chambers outer and inner tube. Twin-tube shock absorbers are commonly used in commercial vehicles due to their agreeable characteristics whereas mono-tube designs are common in sports applications.
Adjustable Shock absorbers allow the user to fine-tune the shock absorber in many different ways to suit their exact needs. The user can adjust the compression and rebound damping. These parameters determine how the shock absorber will react when operated. However, you require a keen understanding of the device to be able to effectively tune the shocks and get useful results. For most folks, non-adjustable type shock absorbers are the better fit.
Shock absorbers can be further categorized into two types based on the fluid used inside the chamber. Although all shock absorbers have some sort of hydraulic oil, some shocks use special gasses along with the conventional oil to prevent aeration, enhance heat dissipation, and ultimately perform better. On this basis, you can classify shocks into hydraulic and gas shocks. Gas shocks usually have pressurized nitrogen gas inserted into the chamber. Gas shocks usually come with a reservoir where pressurized gas is stored. This reservoir may be directly attached to the shock absorber housing or can be placed away and have lines running to the shock. Gas shocks tend to be aimed toward off-roading and heavy-duty applications where there is a constant requirement of shock absorption like when driving over rough terrains.
As you can tell from the many types, shock absorbers vary in many different ways and so it is easy to get confused when purchasing new ones, especially if you want something better than what came from the factory. The below list provides an insight into factors you should be considering before you buy new shock absorbers for your vehicle.
Your shock absorber choice largely depends on your driving condition and style. Everyday commuters that stick to highways and roads can opt for reliable and durable steel twin-tube shock absorbers. Within twin-tube shock absorbers is Position sensitive damping and Acceleration sensitive damping twin-tube shock absorber. These offer many advantages over standard twin-tube shocks like faster damping response, providing more comfort, and can be an upgrade over the factory twin-tube shocks.
For those who often track their vehicles or go on unpaved surfaces like off-roaders and racing vehicles, the better choice is mono-tube shock absorbers. These types of shocks are capable of withstanding harsher driving conditions that can be found in racing and off-roading applications.
The cost of shock absorbers can get really steep the more high-performance they are. Twin-tube shocks are usually an affordable replacement choice for most users. However, position and acceleration sensitive damping twin-tube shocks can be more expensive but worth the extra cost due to the better performance they give. Monotube shocks can get quite expensive but are a necessity in performance applications. Heavy-duty shock absorbers and struts also cost more but are a long-lasting and durable choice for those who have larger vehicles.
If you want high-performance shock absorbers then you need to look to the aftermarket as OE replacements are pretty limited. Different manufacturers have different offerings that are suited to different users. OE counterparts are designed for a broad user base and do not cater to any specific applications. On the other hand, aftermarket brands can provide solutions for even the most unique shock absorber needs. The features mentioned along with each brand can help you decide which brand meets your shock absorber requirements.
Another shock absorber variation you need to consider is the material they are made of. The material the shock is made of can influence many important characteristics like performance, weight, and price. Shock absorbers are available in steel and aluminum. Steel shocks are affordable choices and have a good lifespan and performance. However, they are heavier, cannot be adjusted, and are susceptible to corrosion after prolonged usage. Aluminum shocks are lightweight which helps reduce unsprung mass and can be adjusted which allows the user to alter the ride height. Although these performance benefits come at a premium price.
Monroe products are designed, engineered, fit and ride checked, and built with each vehicles specific ride and handling profile in mind. The strict performance standards at Monroe, with their OE expertise, ensure OE-quality fit and function from each individual component as well as how the finished parts work together once installed. The high-carbon steel and premium components that go into premium Monroe shocks, struts, and strut assemblies make each one a top-quality product.
i) Monroe Range Of Strut Assemblies:
A. Roadmatic Complete Strut Assembly
RoadMatic strut assemblies include all the components required for strut replacement in a single, fully-assembled unit.
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B. Quick-Strut® Complete Replacement Strut Assembly
Monroe Quick-Strut units include all the high-quality components required for strut replacement in a single, fully-assembled unit.
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C. Magnum Loaded Strut Assembly
Specifically designed for ½ ton trucks, Monroe Magnum Loaded Strut Assemblies are ideal for hard-working trucks engaged in towing, hauling, and plowing.
Part Numbers: R, , , , and more.
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ii) Monroe Range Of Struts:
A. Monro-Matic® Plus Struts
Monro-Matic® Plus struts provide an ideal balance of comfort and control for any driving condition.
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B. Reflex® Struts
Reflex® struts valving technology automatically adjusts the shock to absorb rough road impact, leaving the strut with greater control for improved handling, safety, and comfort.
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C. OESpectrum® Struts
OESpectrum® struts provide an unprecedented level of handling precision and control while filtering out noise, vibration, and harshness.
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iii) Monroe Range Of Shock Absorbers:
A. Monroe® Gas-magnum® Truck Shock Absorber:
Gas-Magnum truck shock absorbers provide firm control without a harsh ride.
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B. Reflex® Truck Shock Absorbers
Truck shock absorbers valving technology automatically adjusts the shock to absorb the impact, leaving the shock with greater control for improved handling, safety, and comfort.
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Contact us to discuss your requirements of vibration absorber material. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
C. Reflex® Monotube Shock Absorbers
Monroe Reflex® monotube shocks are specifically engineered to provide better handling, control, and performance.
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D. Monro-Matic® Plus Shock Absorbers
Monro-Matic® Plus shock absorbers provide an ideal balance of comfort and control for any driving condition.
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E. OESpectrum® Truck & Passenger Car Shock Absorbers
Featuring their latest global Original Equipment valving technologies, Monroe® OESpectrum® ride control products are designed with the right technology specific for each application to provide added control while reducing harshness experienced with rough, bumpy road conditions. OESpectrum® shock absorbers provide an unprecedented level of handling precision and control while filtering out noise, vibration, and harshness.
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F. OESpectrum® Monotube Shock Absorbers
Featuring their latest global Original Equipment valving technologies, Monroe® OESpectrum® ride control products are designed with the right technology specific for each application to provide added control while reducing harshness experienced with rough, bumpy road conditions. OESpectrum® monotube shock absorbers provide an unprecedented level of handling precision and control while filtering out noise, vibration, and harshness.
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G. Monroe® Load Adjusting Shock Absorbers
Monroe load adjusting shock absorbers adjust rapidly to changing road and weight conditions, delivering enhanced control with uncompromised ride comfort.
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For more products, you can visit our Monroe Shocks and Struts Section.
The companys complete strut assemblies include all the components required for a strut replacement in a single, fully-assembled unit. They feature pre-assembled replacement bearing plates, top mounts, upper and lower spring isolators, upper spring seat, coil spring, premium rubber dust boot, and a gas-charged premium quality strut. This breakthrough design saves on installation time by eliminating the safety hazards associated with the decompression of the coil spring. Every strut assembly features application-engineered valves to optimize each vehicles unique ride and handling characteristics.
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For more products, you can visit our Unity Automotive Shocks and Struts Section
TMC shocks are an exceptional quality aftermarket option for everyday vehicle use and are easy to install. TMC shock absorbers will increase your control over your vehicles ride and handling in response to unexpected jolts. TMC shock absorbers maximize braking effectiveness by keeping the vehicles tires in contact with the pavement and controlling all unwanted motion, including bounce, sway, brake dive, and acceleration squat.
Part Numbers: 78-, 78-, 78-, 78-, 78-, and more.
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For more products, you can visit our Transit Warehouse Shocks and Struts Section.
KYB Corporation is one of the largest worldwide manufacturers of shock absorbers for original equipment supplying around 50 million shocks every year to world-leading vehicle manufacturers. 1 in 5 of the worlds cars and light commercial vehicles leaving the production line are fitted with KYB shock absorbers as original equipment. High-level technology, manufacturing, and product quality, matched with superb aftermarket engagement, guarantee excellent shock absorbers. The range offers oil and gas shock absorbers, and high-pressure mono tubes the best for more demanding driving.
A. KYB Excel-G Shocks And Struts
The most popular KYB series in the world, Excel-G shock absorbers are the absolute best product to restore original handling and control. Excel-G shock absorbers have been designed to compensate for wear in other suspension parts while providing superior handling and comfort to many other original equipment units.
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B. KYB Gas-a-Just Monotube Shock Absorbers
KYB Gas-A-Just Monotube Shock Absorbers are designed for cars that require precise control and a high coefficient of traction with any road surface. Designed as original equipment for many vehicle manufacturers, this complete self-adjusting mono-tube shock absorber minimizes bounce and sway, to ensure superior steering and cornering response. The combination of high pressurized nitrogen gas and all-weather fluid creates the ideal shock absorber for both standard and performance vehicles.
Part Numbers: KG, KG, KG, KG, KG, and more.
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C. KYB MonoMax Shocks And Struts
KYB MonoMax shocks and struts feature a 46mm large cylinder bore that provides the additional stability that heavier, more powerful, or high center of gravity vehicles demand. It offers the most handling and control of any KYB truck shock up to 40% more damping performance than standard shock absorbers! The MonoMaxs tough design automatically adjusts to driving conditions with fade-free performance and has an outstanding reputation for vehicles that do real work, go off-road, tow a trailer, or haul heavy loads. It uses a work-ready zinc-coated steel piston ring and includes an off-road dust boot to extend the life of the shock or strut. The KYB MonoMax is a high-pressure, Nitrogen gas-charged monotube shock absorber designed for trucks.
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For more products, you can visit our KYB Shocks and Struts Section.
Part Numbers: STR, ST, ST, STL, ST, and more.
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For more products, you can visit our Moog Shocks and Struts Section
Understanding the failures of the struts or shock absorbers before major problems arise and having them fixed is necessary for the best vehicle operation, a smooth ride, proper handling, and most importantly stability. Here are a few shock absorber failure symptoms:
A. Bumpy Ride
If the ride feels very bouncy then it is an indication that the struts or shock absorbers have failed and do not dampen the road disturbances effectively. Experiencing a bumpy ride can mean that there is an issue with the dampening of the bumps which means that the shock absorbers or struts are failing to do their job. In such a situation, to verify if the shock or struts are worn out, one can do a bounce test. Simply push your entire weight down on your cars bonnet. Release and count the number of times the car bounces. If it bounces more than three times, then there is a problem with your shock absorbers or struts.
B. Dipping, Leaning Or Swerving Of The Vehicle
Another prominent failure symptom of the suspension system can be observed while accelerating, braking or cornering. If the vehicle leans backward during acceleration, or nose-dives during braking, or leans from side-to-side while making a turn then the shock absorbers and struts are worn out causing a complete failure of the system.
C. Excessive Vibrations
The job of the shock absorbers is to absorb the shocks that occur as the vehicle goes over bumps and uneven surfaces on the road. If the shocks fail then these vibrations make their way into the cabin and create an uncomfortable ride. These vibrations can also be felt at the steering wheel and can hinder the movement of the vehicle causing the vehicle to pull to one side, involuntary turns, and loss of control.
D. Noticeable Leaks
The hydraulic fluid within the shock can start to leak if the shock casing is damaged or the seals wear out after prolonged use. The leak will cause the hydraulic fluid level to decrease to a point where the shock absorber loses functionality. If you find excessive liquid surrounding the shocks then have them replaced immediately. Note that a thin layer of liquid can be present over the shock after the piston has expended leaving behind some residue. This is natural and theres nothing to worry.
E. Uneven Tire Wear
One of the functions of the shock absorbers is to maintain tire contact with the road surface. If the shocks are worn out, the tire contact patch is abrupt and so the tires do not wear evenly. However, uneven tires can be caused by many reasons so it is important to check the shock absorbers.
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