Monroe Shocks Review
Shock absorbers refer to hydraulic pump-like devices which are used to aid in the control of both the impact and the rebound movement of a vehicle’s suspension and springs. Shock absorbers also ensure that a vehicle’s tires are always in contact with the road surface. When in motion or at stationary positions, the bottom surface of your car is the only one with some contact with the ground.
This goes against a popular belief that shock absorbers support the specific weight of a vehicle. Vehicles will come with stock shock absorbers which in most cases do not function optimally in handling different types of terrain.
That is the reason many consumers have steered their interests to the different series of Monroe shocks. Monroe is a reputable brand which produces durable, and high-quality shocks. This article focuses on the description, key features, specifications, pros as well as cons of the Monroe shocks.
The Monroe Shocks Models
Monroe lets you take control of your vehicle by giving you superior driving precision, exceptional road-holding capability, and unsurpassed agility.
The different models which include:
- the Monroe 5779 OESpectrum Passenger Car Shock Absorber,
- the Monroe 58640 Load Adjusting Shock Absorber,
- and the Monroe 34690 Gas-Magnum Truck Shock Absorber
are uniquely designed for mid to full-size vehicles.
Included in this are pick-up trucks and vans as well.
The various models are also fitted with an all-weather hydraulic fluid which boosts the overall performance of your vehicle.
I ordered the Monroe 5779 OESpectrum Passenger Car Shock Absorber online which I installed on my 2004 Dodge RAM 1500. This vehicle model tows over 8500lbs. There was a big difference as compared to the stock shocks.
The rides on both highways and in rough terrain were great and any weight was haulable without any sag. The vehicle was also greatly controlled at high speeds and around turns.
I tested them over a period of 2 weeks and at the end of this test, I was fully satisfied with their superior performance.
Key Features
- All weather Fluid and Full Displaced Valving-The manufacturer was quick to include special modifiers whose role is to reduce friction. Besides, these modifiers also facilitate a smooth rod reaction. The full displaced valving system adjusts itself automatically in different terrains in order to give consistency and comfort in rides.
- Fluon Banded Piston-This piston gives a consistent sealing between the piston and pressure tube. In turn, this leads to increased durability and better control of your vehicle. There is also the use of new reengineered oil seal which provides superior dynamic performance values between the seal and the piston rod. The end result is a more uniform friction distribution framework.
- Revolutionary Rebound Valve Technology and Anti-Friction PTFE Band-The rebound valve technology gives a faster yet consistent response which in turn leads to better grip control and stability of the vehicle. On the other hand, the closed anti-friction PTFE band extends the shock’s service life.
- Tenneco’s Twin Technology Active Control System-The manufacturer included this internal damping control technology and its purpose is to give unmatched control in virtually all driving conditions.
- Patented Low-Speed Tunability and Electronic Technology-This is a patented piston design which separates impact-related noise, harshness, and vibration. The electronic technology’s role is to sense and adjust to the driver’s inputs. Monroe included a continuously variable semi-active suspension which adjusts to 4 dampers for better-controlled rides. A direct-fit replacement also exists.
- Monotube and Multi-Disc Technology-The monotube shock absorber is made for superior, European-style ride levels. The multi-disk technology provides improved steering response on your OE equipped vehicle.
Specifications of the Monroe 5779
- Part Number: 57790
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 19.6 x 4.1 x 2.3 inches
- Compressed Length: 10.50″
- Extended Length: 16.125″
- Stroke Length: 5.625″
- Extended Bumper Stop: No
- Compressed Bumper Stop: No
- Upper Mounting: Loop Bushing and Sleeve Mount – 0.48″- Sleeve ID x 1.75″- Sleeve OAL
- Lower Mounting: Loop Bushing and Sleeve Mount – 0.563″ Sleeve ID x 1.625″ Sleeve OAL
- Dust Shield: Yes, Metal
- Extended Hydraulic Lockout: No
- All weather fluid reduces piston rod friction
- Larger bore than most shocks for more efficient control
- Easy to install
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Might be a bit too soft for the rear end
Some of my friends have owned the Monroe 58640 Load Adjusting Shock Absorber for approximately 15 months and they have been able to tow their RV 7 times. They have also towed a boat over a total distance of 500 miles.
Key Features List of Monroe 58640 Load Adjusting Shock Absorber
- Just like in the OESpectrum Passenger Care Shock absorber, the Monroe 58640 will have an all-weather fluid which facilitates smooth rod reaction.
- The full displaced valving is uniquely tuned for every application.
- As such, it is able to adjust to different road extremes.
- A fluon banded piston is also present just like in the OESpectrum. Its role is to give a consistent sealing between the piston and pressure tube for better control.
Specifications of the Monroe 58640
- Part Number: 58640
- Weight: 11.02 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 29.5 x 7.2 x 3.7 inches
- Compressed Length: 15.75″
- Extended Length: 26.50″
- Stroke Length: 10.75″
- Extended Bumper Stop: No
- Compressed Bumper Stop: No
- Upper Mounting: Loop Bushing and Sleeve Mount – 0.563″- Sleeve ID x 1.625″- Sleeve OAL
- Lower Mounting: Loop Bushing and Sleeve Mount – 0.563″ Sleeve ID x 1.625″ Sleeve OAL
- Dust Shield: Yes, Metal
- Extended Hydraulic Lockout: No
- Self-lubricating fluid seal retains gas without increasing friction
- Improves ride and handling and helps maintain ride height when additional weight is loaded
- Easy to install
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Without load or trailer the rear of the truck is slightly higher than stock
This Gas-Magnum Truck Shock absorber is uniquely designed for the middling, hardworking vans and trucks.
It is, therefore, able to get rid of bumpy rides in different types of terrain.
Key Features
The features that Monroe included in this model:
- All weather Fluid Technology-It resembles the other models in this. The fluid technology has the role of reducing friction within the shocks and at the same time enabling a smooth shock reaction. The fluid capacity of this shock is also quote high than the standard models. It leads to more performance efforts by your vehicle.
- Full Displaced Valving-This feature is also representing in the other models and it boosts smoothness of the rides in all types of terrain.
- Nitrogen Charge-This gas shock is nitrogen-charged and this comes in handy in the handling process and boosting the tire-road contact. A sintered iron piston is also included and this contributes to the durability of the shocks.
Specifications of the Monroe 34690
- Part Number: 34690
- Weight: 5.3 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 23.2 x 4 x 2.7 inches
- Compressed Length: 10.50″
- Extended Length: 16.125″
- Stroke Length: 5.625″
- Extended Bumper Stop: No
- Compressed Bumper Stop: No
- Upper Mounting: Loop Bushing and Sleeve Mount – 0.48″ – Sleeve ID x 1.75″ – Sleeve OAL
- Lower Mounting: Loop Bushing Sleeve Mount – 0.563″ Sleeve ID x 1.625″ Sleeve OAL
- Dust Shield: Yes, Metal
- Extended Hydraulic Lockout: No
- Firm control without a harsh ride
- Better valving range for a smooth, comfortable ride
- Easy to install
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- If your looking to stiffen up your ride they might be too soft
About Monroe
The shock absorber units give drivers firm control with up to twice the fluid capacity of the standard 1-inch bore shocks.
Looking at the manufacturer, Monroe is a leading producer of high-quality suspension parts, systems, and brake pads. This company has a coordinated network across 5 continents whereby there is a total of 14 engineering centers.
Some of the revolutionary products from this firm include struts, premium shocks, and brake pads which boost steering, stopping, and stability of your vehicle.
In the early 1900s, drivers still rode on uncomfortable carriage springs which led to poor quality of rides. During these times, flat tires were rampant and service stations were rare. Therefore, drivers had to patch their tires on their own by the roadsides. An entrepreneur known as August F. Meyer identified this as an opportunity and started a tire pumps manufacturing company.
It was known as the Brisk Blast manufacturing company and was based in Monroe, Michigan. By 1918, this company diversified its operations and ultimately became the Monroe Auto Equipment Company. This firm introduced the first series of shock absorbers in 1926 which was referred as the Monroe-Matic. It served most car makers in the 1950s.
The company went international between 1964 and 1974 and afterwards became part of Tenneco Inc in 1977. New global opportunities arose and by 1980, Monroe had already started producing the first struts and gas charged shock. In 1985, its global expansion efforts were bolstered by the acquisition of the W.H. Wylie & Co.
The latter was a manufacturer of metal pressings, household items, precision machine components, and motor vehicle parts. The new company was named Monroe Australia Pty Ltd. By 1989, its visibility in Europe was further boosted through the acquisition of the suspension division of Armstrong Equipment PLC of the United Kingdom. These efforts also saw the customer service of this group improve.
Presently, this company boasts of being a global leader in automotive parts such as the Monroe 5779 OESpectrum Passenger Car
Shock Absorbers
The OESpectrum shocks make use of the OE valving technologies as expressed through full displaced valving and twin technology active control system.
The Monroe 58620 shock absorber, on the other hand, help your vehicle adjust to changing road conditions. These are rated to sustain the clearance height of vehicles by up to 1100-pound loads and are therefore ideal for SUVs and light trucks.
Overall Pros & Cons
- Fair Price-These shocks are quite affordable as their prices fall below the $50 mark. You can therefore easily replace your stock shocks on your vehicle and transform your riding experiences. Besides, the fair price ensures that you get the best in the market.
- Single Sales-To match up with their competition, Monroe made a decision to offer its shocks in pairs and as single items. You can, therefore, buy any of the 3 models without much pressure. You can plan to purchase all within a stipulated period and have them delivered to your doorstep.
- Flexibility-The various models of the Monroe shock readily adjust themselves to loads when towing or hauling cargo. All are also designed to perform optimally in both hot and cold climates. They can also be installed in a wide variety of vehicles.
- Resistance and Durability-Due to single bonded bushing these shocks have a high level of durability. The hydraulic fluid improves the damping behavior which takes care of the resistance.
- Rust-Some consumers have highlighted that due to exposure to factors such as water, the Monroe shocks started to rust after being used for approximately 7 months old. A solution for this would be to paint the shocks with your favorite color.
- Excess Strength-You have to use a pry bar on top of a bottle jack so as to compress the shocks. They will efficiently slide into the bottom mount. Using your bare hands will not help. Ensure that you get the right tools so that you install the shocks in an easier process. Some of the tools to take into account include the breaker bar, a torque wrench, and a ratchet.
FAQ/Buying Guide
Contents:
How do I know if my shock absorbers are worn?
While most drivers depend on their senses in order to service their vehicles, there are numerous physical components that can give you indicators. This is why taking your vehicle for a road test comes in handy. Some of the physical indicators include:
Bounces, Front End Dives and Rear Squats-Vehicle shocks and struts help in the control of spring movement in the vehicle.
When such components are damaged or loose, the tires will lose contact with the surface and the vehicle hence bounces. If you feel like your ride comfort is not the same, make sure to have the shocks and struts checked. Newer shocks such as those from Monroe will make your vehicle brake and corner like it is new.
Body Roll and Unusual Noises-If the shocks and struts are spoilt, a vehicle will tend to lean into a turn even on slight turns. It also comes as a safety issue as steering and braking are negatively impacted. Unusual noises come as a result of the shocks and bushings wearing out. Tire cupping could also lead to suspension-related noise.
What is the best brand of shocks and struts?
There are numerous brands offering suspension solutions for the various types of vehicles. However, none matches Monroe. This is a brand that has been around for long and has specialized in the production of high-quality shocks and struts.
Which shock absorber is best?
The main types of shock absorbers that Monroe offers include the OESpectrum which are made for foreign nameplate vehicles, the Monroe load adjusting shocks which adjust to the road and weight conditions and the Gas-Magnum truck shocks which are for mid to full-size trucks and vans. Since each of this is made for a specific class of vehicles, make sure to select the right one for your automotive.
How often do you need to replace shocks?
All automotive parts follow a strict maintenance schedule. As such, replacing your shocks and struts on time will facilitate a dependable performance from your vehicle.
For every 50000 to 100000 miles, make sure to replace your shocks. Remember this is heavily linked to your driving patterns. Some signs to prompt the replacement include an unstable braking performance and stiff steering performance.
What are the best shocks for trucks?
The Monroe Gas-Magnum truck shock absorber is deemed the best for trucks. These shocks have a 2-inch reserve tube for optimal performances and a heavy-duty nitro carburized piston rod for long service while towing.
Which is better oil or gas shock absorber?
While both oil and gas shock absorbers will tend to perform optimally, gas shocks have tighter control and consequently make the vehicle stiffer than in oil shocks. However, the gas shocks are considered to be of high-performance and work well at high speeds. Gas shocks have pressurized nitrogen in addition to the hydraulic oil.
When the shock has to react rapidly to motion, the oil can start to foam and hence control is lost. The role of the gas is to keep this oil under high pressure so that it does not foam. These shocks are preferred for trucks and other high utility vehicles while the oil shocks are designed for lighter vehicles. Monroe guarantees that all their products are of high quality through years of testing.
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