How to Soften Stiff Shocks

Sometimes newly installed shocks feel very different than the old shocks. Usually, new shocks feel very stiff, causing passengers to feel every single bump inside the vehicle's cab. Fixing the shocks can be done in a variety of ways. Sometimes the effect that feels like stiff shocks has nothing to do with the shocks at all. Sometimes, it has to do with other parts of the vehicle.

Instructions

1. Lower the tire pressure. Many times when shocks are stiff, it is not because of the shocks. It is because the tires are overly inflated. Drop a couple of psi from each tire to help soften the ride.

2. Change the shock settings. Some shocks have adjustable settings on the shock itself to loosen or tighten it.

3. Install a softer set of springs. The springs may be to tight, causing the ride to be stiff.

4. Decrease the vehicle's weight. A vehicle with too much weight in it causes the shocks to bounce around and feel stiff. Remove any excess weight that you can such as anything that you are hauling that you do not use on a daily basis to lighten the weight.

References

• "Auto Upkeep: Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair"; Michael E. Gray; May 2007