Choosing Shocks for your Jeep Wrangler JL
We've taken the Jeep Wrangler JL across every terrain you can imagine, flexing the Metal Cloak 3.5in lift to its max. We paired the lift kit with numerous shock options to inform this guide. We address different budgets, different vehicle uses & needs (plush daily comfort, more handling, off-road, etc), and identifying exactly what these shocks mean for your Wrangler JL.
Introducing
Wrangler Buyer's Guide Video
We break down the pros and cons of the most popular Jeep Wrangler suspension upgrades.
3 dollar signs out of 4
- One of the only adjustable monotube IFP shocks on the market
- Soft or Standard damping settings through the SP2 adjustment
- Available for a range of lift kits on your Wrangler JL
- Adjustment requires removing the shock from the lower shock mount
- Sportier / Firmer than people expect out of the box
2 dollar signs out of 4
- Leveling-Kit ability for certain apps
- Great off-road capable shock upgrade
- Durable, long lasting
- Improved handling on & off-road
- Heavy Duty, Tow, Haul capable
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Performance Shock, higher price
2 dollar signs out of 4
- Control for soft or firm compression damping
- Thick bodied, large oil volume
- Excellent adjustable shock for the price
- 90-day Ride Guarantee by Rancho
- Knobs prone to breakage, we replace them for free
- Adjustment settings are imperceptible for some drivers
2 dollar signs out of 4
- Leveling-Kit ability for certain apps
- Great off-road capable shock upgrade
- Durable, long lasting
- Improved handling on & off-road
- Heavy Duty, Tow, Haul capable
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Performance Shock, higher price
3 dollar signs out of 4
- Available for factory height up to 6" lift kits
- Linear damping for predictable feel
- Noticeable improvement to rough pavement or rocky terrain
- Serviceable and Rebuildable
- Performance / Premium level price point
- Despite the price, cannot do extended periods in high heat environments without fade
4 dollar signs out of 4
- Internal bypass adjustable
- Big knob adjustability for bump compliance / comfort
- 2.25in aluminum shock body gives a higher standard for damping at this price range and package size
- Have to remove the lower shock mount in order to make SP2 adjustments
- Rides sportier / firmer than people expect (but we're a fan)
4 dollar signs out of 4
- Huge improvement to road comfort and off-road handling in one package
- Adjustable & Reservoir options
- Serviceable, Rebuildable, Custom Tuning Available
- Excellent handling in high speed environments
- Requires servicing between 30-50k miles for optimum performance
4 dollar signs out of 4
- Ultimate ride comfort from Internal Bypass technology
- Extreme damping refinement through DSC features
- Unstoppable with top of the line heat dissipation
- Limited ride height options available
- Many moving parts, service and maintenance should be on the calendar