If you've been grinding through my endless questions about regular maintenance on my '06 Hemi Commander, I have *some* payoff. After all the routine maintenance (with some left), I decided it was time to replace/upgrade the stock suspension. I called 4xguard last Monday to ensure availability, placed a web order that day, all parts arrived/gathered last Friday, ensuring a weekend to devote to the install. In case you need background:
'06 Hemi XK
111K miles all stock
Systematically repair/replace fluids, EGR, PCV, etc.
Before OME HD install:
After OME HD install:
So, a few quick observations:
The OME springs are NO JOKE. The strut compressor from your local parts place available for rental are NOT APPROPRIATE. If I ever did this again/helped a friend, I'd strongly suggest we take them to a shop and have them assembled (I bought new mounts, bump stops and isolators, so it was a direct swap)
There is a tip floating around about reverse threading the strut fork bolt with a washer/something solid to stretch it out, easing reinstallation. Use this tip. From my assessment, there is no other way to get that fork back on, unless you have a ton of leverage and can generate a ton of force with a 3 inch strike on the fork itself. IIRC, Matt gave me that one, but it should be widely known.
I'd also read some accounts of folks having trouble with bump stops falling out in front. I used some lithium grease on the inside of the stop and the piston rod of the strut, and so far I've had no issues with slippage. If they do slip, I'll just coat them in hairspray and force them back in.
I've seen some insight that the struts/shocks are "lifetime" components. Well, once I had both front struts out, I did a quick rebound test where I pushed them both down to bottom out, to see if they rebounded at the same rate. Woulda been a great comparison if the passenger side wasn't seized. I'd say they were in need of replacement.
Overall, I was surprised at how drive-able this setup is. Plenty of flex, not super stiff, but night and day in terms of stance and handling. For the ~$800ish and a weekend, I'd sleep soundly at night recommending this setup.
At this point, I'm only spooked about my stock axle shafts at a new angle, and am already planning new UCAs. Otherwise, it's time to pinch weld and shop for new wheels/tires. Suddenly, a Borla has taken a backseat to more wheeling-specific mods. 6 months ago, I hated this Jeep (wife really beat it up)...but an accident/front end rebuild has me swooning over the possibilities!
'06 Hemi XK
111K miles all stock
Systematically repair/replace fluids, EGR, PCV, etc.
Before OME HD install:
After OME HD install:
So, a few quick observations:
The OME springs are NO JOKE. The strut compressor from your local parts place available for rental are NOT APPROPRIATE. If I ever did this again/helped a friend, I'd strongly suggest we take them to a shop and have them assembled (I bought new mounts, bump stops and isolators, so it was a direct swap)
There is a tip floating around about reverse threading the strut fork bolt with a washer/something solid to stretch it out, easing reinstallation. Use this tip. From my assessment, there is no other way to get that fork back on, unless you have a ton of leverage and can generate a ton of force with a 3 inch strike on the fork itself. IIRC, Matt gave me that one, but it should be widely known.
I'd also read some accounts of folks having trouble with bump stops falling out in front. I used some lithium grease on the inside of the stop and the piston rod of the strut, and so far I've had no issues with slippage. If they do slip, I'll just coat them in hairspray and force them back in.
I've seen some insight that the struts/shocks are "lifetime" components. Well, once I had both front struts out, I did a quick rebound test where I pushed them both down to bottom out, to see if they rebounded at the same rate. Woulda been a great comparison if the passenger side wasn't seized. I'd say they were in need of replacement.
Overall, I was surprised at how drive-able this setup is. Plenty of flex, not super stiff, but night and day in terms of stance and handling. For the ~$800ish and a weekend, I'd sleep soundly at night recommending this setup.
At this point, I'm only spooked about my stock axle shafts at a new angle, and am already planning new UCAs. Otherwise, it's time to pinch weld and shop for new wheels/tires. Suddenly, a Borla has taken a backseat to more wheeling-specific mods. 6 months ago, I hated this Jeep (wife really beat it up)...but an accident/front end rebuild has me swooning over the possibilities!