AWD Front Shock Measurements (tab to tab)?

[motorahead]

Hi Everyone, I'm curious if someone can provide front shock measurements (tab to tab), extended and collapsed on the AWD vans? Specifically on the 2nd/3rd gens.

I've been experimenting with options for longer travel lengths, and the potential solution I'm looking at has a 12.8" collapsed length. However, it seems that's nearly 2" longer that factory spec.

The only info I have to go on is by looking at measurements for other factory spec shocks. For example, Bilstein 4600's (24-021364) have a collapsed length of 11.22" and extended length of 16.18" (5" of travel). I've also found that different manufactures vary +/- ~.5".

I apologize if you feel there is some missing context, but this information would be very helpful in my research. I might post this on the astro/safari forum as well.

Thanks!

[MountainManJoe]

Welcome to the forum.
Are you trying to put shocks on a lifted Astro?

Have a look here:
MountainManJoe @ Shock Absorber choices?

1" isn't a big deal. Shocks aren't that picky and they have range of suspension height they can accommodate.

[Astrophysics]

Howdy,

My 2"body lifted 2003 AWD Astro has front Bilsteins.
Since I have heavy front end with winch and brush guard, I also install front Timbren rubber springs to replace the bump stops.

The 15% firmer torsion bars that Sway Away in SoCal might fab are estimated at $1200 per pair.


AP

[Astrophysics]

Hi,

Took off winch and tray and recovery D rings from front of my 2003 AWD Astro. This removed 103 lbs.

Front springs still too weak.

May try to ‘find custom shock guys you could do a mild coil over shock to replace Bilstein shock. Space is tight but since I will keeps torsion bar as main spring, the coil only needs to have 200 lbs of spring approx.

The AWD shock has eye on both ends which will perhaps limit choices of coil overs?
Maybe a Harley or Indian motorcycle rear spring/shock could be modified.
‘Other wild idea is to use sway bar end link as a way to add a coil spring helper spring. Then design a new longer sway bar end link as is common on many new cars?

AP

[Astrophysics]

Hi,

Also visible the the rubber Timbren helper spring which replaced the bump stop.


AP