COILOVER SHOCK 101

Coilovers, also called coilover shocks, are probably one of the hottest suspension components on the market today. But what is a coilover shock? How does it work? What is the benefit?

To start, the idea of a coilover shock is pretty simple. A coil spring (or two or more as in dual- or triple-rate coilovers) is mounted through various methods to a shock or strut. The coil spring(s) support the weight of the vehicle and compress or extend as the vehicle goes over bumps. The shock damps the action of the vehicle by controlling fluid movement, and this is usually where things get a bit more complicated. Within the shock’s body, a piston rides on the shock shaft, moving up and down as the shock compresses and extends. On either side of this piston is a fluid, or shock oil. The compression and extension (rebound) of the shock is controlled by how much fluid can move through or sometimes around this piston. The rate at which the fluid moves through the piston is controlled mainly by shims that control the valving. All these parts