baddog671

I ordered a set of chromed shock tower caps the other day and realized that they arent the same size as my original ones. They seem to have the same general shape, but instead of roughly 2 inches in height for the originals, these are more like 1" 1/4. This shouldnt be a problem aslong as the bolts all match up, correct? If anything, perhaps it would begood becuase it would give a lower profile look and give the shock's rod more available room? Thanks...

gothand

A shorter shock tower cap will allow for less up travel in the shock. I can't see how it would be a problem unless the shock bottoms out before the suspension hits the rubber bumpstop. If a shock is too long, it can puch out right through the top. This is a common problem on Jeep TJ's in the rear with too long a shock. Because the barpin is below the frame, the lower shock mount takes the hit and often brakes. In the Mustang's case, only the two bolts hold it up top. I'd guess the barpin would push right out if the shock bottomed out.

Bottom line is you'll probably be fine, but take a look at the up travel and make sure the shock won't be the limiter.

baddog671

Wouldnt a shorter cap allow more travel in the shock, not less? Lets say normal distance from shock base totop of capis a foot(not realistic scale), but with shorter caps its only 11". That would allow full extention with a 1" still inside the shock to extend...

Confusion!! Either way, its no more than a inch difference so it shouldnt matter...

Lumbergh

Look at it this way, if your upper A arm can travel 6 inches before hitting the stops, and your shock can compress 6.5 inches you will still have a half inch of travel left in the shock. With caps that ar 1 inch lower you only have 5.5 inches of travel before the shock is fully compressed. If the A arm travels 6 inches, that shock becomes a steel rod for the last half inch. The weakest spot will have to give, most likely the attachment between the shock and the cap.