A recent online column discussed some of the essential shocks repair and maintenance. One topic is if a 1997 Ford T-bird that is running fine would need new struts in the front and rear Ford shocks. A strut is just a single part that combines a shock absorber with a coil spring to save space. According to the article, only a mechanic would have the answer to that. A sure sign of replacement is when one of the shocks is leaking. The other sign of worn-out shocks is unusual tire wear. If the tires are cupping or scalloping, or have high and low spots on the tread surface, would often mean a sign of bad shocks.

The authors also suggested the reliable shock test. This is when the driver pushes down hard on one corner of the bumper and the car should come back up once and stop, and not bounce. If it goes up and down even a little bit, the shocks are worn out.

Shocks are highly important not only do they affect ride comfortability but also the safety of the driver and his/her passengers. Replacement shocks are widely available nowadays, like Bilstein shocks, Koni shocks and Tokico shocks.

Efficient and reliable that is the Ford Ranger but the 2008 Ford Ranger is now even bolder, tougher, more fuel efficient, new Ford shocks and more affordable, adding to the successful “Built Ford Tough” capability and durability heritage that’s made it one of America’s favorite small trucks for two decades. The most fuel efficient pickup truck now gets even better fuel economy thanks to improved aerodynamics delivered by an updated front-bumper design.

2008 Ford Ranger owners will make fewer stops as well, thanks to service intervals that have been extended to 7,500 miles - making the most affordable pickup an even better value. This new service interval helps lowers Ranger’s cost of ownership - including purchase price, fuel cost, maintenance and more.

The 2008 Ranger also is bolder and tougher, with upgrades to the FX4 Off-Road model, including standard heavy-duty Rancho twin-tube gas shocks, increased rear spring rates, Class III Trailer Tow Package, skid plates (front, middle and rear) and sport bucket seats. A Torsen limited-slip rear axle is available with the FX4’s 4.10-inch rear axle. The truck’s extreme capability is further conveyed through bold cast-aluminum wheels and rugged, two-tone paint.

Four simplified series - XL, XLT, Sport and FX4 Off-Road - and an exceptional variety of optional equipment enables customers to get the Ranger they want and need. A limited run of trucks in eye-catching Grabber Orange will help introduce the 2008 model year with a blast of visual excitement.

The 2008 Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds to suit customers’ work and play needs. The truck has been tested in the most extreme North American climates and conditions - including blazing desert heat, Arctic cold temperatures, steep 20-percent grade hills and torturous off-road conditions - to assure it lives up to the “Built Ford Tough” promise, even with maximum loads.

Dodge has released an all new Dodge Journey, which is a global vehicle that meets life’s changing demands by offering a unique combination of versatility and flexibility in a sporty, sexy package. This all-new vehicle takes the practicality of a minivan, the capability of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the overall efficiency of a passenger car and blends all the best attributes of each into an all-new “right-sized” crossover for the Dodge brand. This new vehicle will also feature new Dodge shocks.

“The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package,” said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President - International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler. “With its unique combination of purposeful versatility and bold, youthful styling, this new vehicle from Dodge delivers safety, quality and reliability at a great value. Journey also blends innovative technology, entertainment features and useful storage, all wrapped together with an attitude that can only be Dodge.”

The Dodge Journey is built on the company’s global D-segment platform and is designed to meet the needs of customers ranging from young singles, couples and families with small children to mature families who want the flexibility to do more in terms of seating people or storing gear. Clever, flexible seating and storage combinations include standard five-passenger seating with spacious cargo room and available 5+2 seating, for times when additional passengers are along on the journey. Spacious storage bins, hidden in the floor and under the front passenger Seat cushion, combined with a variety of fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, make Dodge Journey flexible, functional and fun-to-drive.
Safety also is at the top of mind for customers, and the Dodge Journey delivers with standard multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, three-row side-curtain air bags, standard four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), standard Electronic Roll Mitigation, an available back-up camera and available all-wheel drive (AWD) in the United States and Canada.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey will be available in U.S. dealerships with both five-passenger and available 5+2 seating in SE, SXT and R/T models in the first quarter of 2008 and in global volume markets outside North America in both left-hand and right-hand drive, starting in mid-2008.

For a comfortable ride, the front-wheel-drive Dodge Journey features a four-wheel independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. Although it will not offer Rancho shocks, the new Dodge will still have a great performance. Front and rear suspension crossmembers are isolated to the body to create a quiet ride, with less road noise, vibration and harshness. AWD is available on Dodge Journey models sold in the United States and Canada on vehicles equipped with the 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard.

Dodge Journey features several different engine/transaxle combinations designed to meet the needs of the diverse mid-size crossover buyer. These include a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter V-6 engine that can run on E-85, an available 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick for the United States and Canada and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transaxle for markets outside North America.

The new Audi A8 has awesome design and reliable struts and new Audi shocks. The Audi A8 masters the art of timeless elegance from every angle. Hence the design has been accentuated in carefully selected areas only: from September 2007 the single-frame grille on six-cylinder models will sport a high-gloss black finish. The eight-cylinder versions can be recognized by horizontal chrome applications, while the top W12 and S8 models are distinguished by double vertical chrome struts.

Audi A8 drivers frequently cite the sporty yet elegant design as one of their main reasons for buying the saloon. They appreciate the harmonious blend of clarity and dynamics, lightness and elegance. After all, the top model of the four-ring brand embodies the philosophy of Audi design in a particularly compelling way.

The new exterior mirrors on the Audi A8 illustrate the combination of elegance and functionality that is typical of Audi. The LED side turn signals are harmoniously incorporated; the warning lights for the optional assistance system Audi side assist are located on the inside of the mirror housing. The new chrome applications on the door handles add an extra touch.

The elaborate wheels in a new design, the 18-inch wheel with a 10-spoke design or the 19-inch wheel with a 5-spoke design are in themselves small works of art.

The comprehensive color range has been extended by new tones Impala Beige, Avus Silver, Cherry Black and Ice Silver. Thanks to the additional range from the Audi exclusive program from quattro GmbH and its extensive customization options, the A8 can be precisely adapted to reflect personal preferences and tastes.

Suspension in new vehicles are not just limited to those installed in a new vehicle. Today, various suspension components such as Koni shocks and Bilstein shocks are being offered.

Toyota cars are associated with the words speed and power because of their performance. These vehicles are even used in drag racing event that is why Toyota shocks are always properly maintained. In drag racing applications, the main function of the shocks is to maintain the proper ride height for the vehicle. They serve as the outlet to adjust the chassis and enable to get the proper weight transfer to the rear of the car. The combination of a good working shock and the coil springs can make the racing endeavors more manageable when it comes to applying the hard-earned horsepower to the racing surface.

Not only doing its job for car racing, shock is what cars need to absorb various road surface imperfections. If there is no shock installed on the car, every bump in the road would be easily experienced and it is in fact very odd to spend an unusual amount of time riding out the after effects.

Another significant reason why cars need shocks is to dampen the suspension function of the springs. Cars must have springs to cradle the body components from uneven road conditions, which would cause drivers to possibly lose control if the speed and frequency were bad enough.

Knowing the serious role of shock to the vehicle, it really deserves proper protection and urgent replacement when it looses its function. There are many shocks to choose for race cars and they are offered online like Koni shocks. Using these parts is a cost-effective way to ensure a pleasurable and safe ride quality.

Edelbrock shocks are designed to disperse the energy released by the springs via hydraulic damping. It uses a patented Ricor Inertia Active System that allows shocks to operate effectively under various road conditions. The system allows the shock absorber to switch instantly between a firm setting for smooth conditions and a soft setting for rough surfaces. Because cars are exposed to harsh situations, shocks provide a useful function on vehicles. Edelbrock shocks are also equipped with polyurethane bushings, leak-free construction and a heavy-duty piston rod that can withstand lots of abuse.

The compact setting of Edelbrock allows the vehicle to have good handling and control with less body roll during highway and normal street driving. When conditions get rough, such as going over pot holes or dirt roads, the unique valve in the Ricor system opens, creating softer operation that lets the shock absorb these rough surfaces. Edelbrock shocks are made with Viton seal and low friction piston rod bearing to prevent leaks and give longer life.

Shocks are important in the suspension system of an automobile. Edelbrock shocks convert motion into heat, typically by forcing oil through small internal passages in a tubular housing. They are used to dampen a suspension oscillation which then makes shock absorbers respond to motion. As a result, shock absorbers are most obvious in momentary motions and have no effect during steady-state conditions.

There are available Dodge shocks for vehicles including IAS shocks for lowered and lifted trucks. The shocks come in off-road designs with and without remote reservoirs. With shocks installed, it can facilitate a better function to the vehicle.

The vehicle’s suspension system gives a comfortable ride in the vehicle, helping to keep the wheels in contact with the road. Many people put less consideration to shock absorbers because they are seldom seen. However, vehicle’s shock absorbers have a significant role in maintaining car control. Bilstein shocks ensure a comfortable ride and prolong the life of other components.

There are two usual types of automotive shock absorbers. It can be a gas-charged or conventional absorber. The movement of a piston within a cylinder is damped by the passing of oil through one or more orifices. In gas-charged shocks, pressurized nitrogen inside the shock helps prevent the formation of tiny air bubbles that reduce the effectiveness of the damping oil. This formation is called cavitation. The purpose of the shock absorber is to manage the movement of the suspension, while the action of the spring in particular, is to maintain stability of the chassis and body even while road irregularities have the wheels pumping up and down madly. As with the serious function of the shock absorber, it is one car component that really helps much in the car’s performance.

Bilstein shocks are intended to provide a specific amount of resistance whenever the wheels on the vehicle bounce up and down, or when the vehicle’s chassis leans while turning. Shocks can wear out in as little as 25,000 to 30,000 miles due to the constant motion of the car, truck or SUV. It is a very good idea to have shocks checked about once a year or so for the owner’s safety and ease.

If the ride is not so comfortable anymore, it is time to personally check the suspension system out or by some expert technicians. When checking the system alone, get on by using the hands and knees then look at the shocks. If there is any oil seeping, either on the outer tube or on the piston rod, then there is a need to replace the shocks. If the outer tube was dented, that shock is toast. One approach to investigate the effectiveness of the shock absorbers is to drive to a safe area like an empty parking lot, get up to about 10 mph, and then hit the brakes hard. When the vehicle comes to a stop and the front end keep bobbing like one of those sipping birds on the side of a glass, fresh shocks must be at hand. Stand at one corner of the vehicle and rapidly push down on it and let it go to compress and release the spring.

Other signs of bad shocks or struts or worn springs include a bouncy or uncomfortable ride, bottoming out and diving the front end of the vehicle. Additionally, there is a loss of control while making a sudden stop; the vehicle swerves more than normal while changing lanes, and vehicle sags in the front or in the rear.

It is better to use a high quality suspension system and avoid using cheap out old shocks because it will just literally increase the risk of driving the wheels off. Worn shocks increase braking distances, build up prematurely wear tires, and can hasten aquaplaning in the rain. There are other good quality replacements parts like Mercury shocks and these are all available online. It will be better to keep every part of the vehicle functions as it should be.

Many car enthusiasts know the Tokico struts, specifically the Tokico HP Series Struts as the “Blue Strut.” This blue strut has been the top choice for those who want or finds the need to maximize their vehicle’s suspension performance. It is the top-selling strut and is brought to us by Tokico, one of the leading brands when it comes to gas pressured suspension technology.

Tokico have been manufacturing shock absorbers as well as other hydraulic products for more than 50 years. Halfway through the 1970’s, Tokico developed the twin-tube low-pressure gas shock design. This technology has already been adopted world-wide due to its ingenuity. After having developed the twin-tube low-pressure gas shock design, Tokico already boomed and began to further improve on its products. Through the years, it has continued to provide the automotive industry with only the highest quality shocks and struts.

The blue strut provides superior handling and exceptional ride quality. It utilizes the unique piston and valve designs improvised by Tokico. Aside from this, the blue struts unprecedented valving curves and velocity sensitive characteristics stabilize the suspension system. It also prevents excessive and even violent vehicle movement. By means of minimizing the low speed damping force and greatly increasing damping at medium and high piston speeds, improved steering response, tire adhesion and handling can be obtained.

Tokico HP Series shocks and struts are perfect for vehicle enthusiasts who are looking for shocks and struts that is trusted to provide smooth rides. One can browse on Bilstein shocks website for the Tokico HP Series Shock / Strut which features: exceptional handling and ride quality, unique piston and valve designs, unprecedented valving curves, velocity sensitive characteristics, and a limited lifetime warranty.

On a typical travel down the road, the shock absorber, or known also as the damper will compress and decompress millions of times. If we break miles and change it into seconds of travel, the number of times the shock absorber moves defines the operating frequency (Hertz, Hz). When the car is making it to a corner, few strokes are induced on the shock absorbers. On the other hand, when cars chatter over broken pavements, higher quantity stokes are induced on the shock absorbers. With this information at hand, shock absorber frequency or damper frequency can be used in order to modify vehicle handling and ride quality.

According to studies, the vehicle body roll control needed to assist in handling occurs at a frequency of about 1 Hz. On the other hand, ride impact harshness can be felt when damper frequency reaches around 10 Hz. Koni has come up with a new line of Koni shocks that is a product of Koni’s studies in damping frequencies in sport cars.

The Koni Sport shock absorbers are developed for sporting drivers. It focuses on properties that promote exceptional road holding and handling. It has also succeeded with its aim at merging exceptional road holding with an acceptable level of comfort in driving. One can browse on more Koni shocks at the Bilstein shocks website.

KONI sport shock absorbers are available as part of Koni’s Threaded Suspension Kits. The said kit features threaded adjustable lower spring perches and progressive rate lowering springs, which are designed to better aid in giving its users a good performance drive.

Tokico, as a developer of low pressure gas shock absorbers for practical use, continues to develop and improve upon the designs they originally made. The Tokico shocks from the HP Series is a product of their goal for improvement.

The Tokico HP Series shocks feature a design that can be considered as a cut above the rest especially when it comes to overall performance handling and ride quality. The Tokico’s valve flexibility is features in the HP Series damping qualities. To up the ante, Tokico’s belief in minimizing low speed and damping force to greatly increase damping at medium and high piston speeds prove to be worthwhile. These helped in improving compliance, tire adhesion, and even in handling.

In this day and age, vehicles are equipped with improved O.E. suspension and wheel/tire combinations that improves one’s handle of the vehicle along with comfort. Although this is the case, the Tokico HP Series shock can make the modern vehicle a lot safer and a joy to drive. Aside from this, it also provides sports car enthusiasts the enhanced car performance and reliability they need from their sports car’s shock.

The Tokico HP Series shock complements and even completes any suspension upgrade that includes lowering springs and a larger diameter of wheel/tire combinations. Upgrades as such have the need for the HP Series’ damping qualities to ensure stability, control and ride comfort.

For more information on Tokico shocks, one can browse on the Bilstein shocks website. By the way, it is also important to note that all Tokico shocks come with a one year warranty from the date of its purchase.