Ram 1500 Coil Overs and Shocks Overview

All fourth generation Ram models are outfitted with OEM coil over shocks for improved handling and off-roading capabilities. Yet, whether you're dealing with a leaf spring suspension system or stock Ram coil overs, you can have better performance by simply upgrading to new mono-tube coil overs with their durable IFP (internal floating piston) design.

Choose from adjustable struts that let you calibrate valving for safe, optimal off-roading. For more difficult off-roading trails we always recommend a mono-tube, adjustable coil over that provides predictable handling and will not buckle under intense heat pressure. 

Ram owners can also choose from twin-tube shocks that provide a comfortable ride and performance value. Either way, a new aftermarket coil over, strut, or shock absorber will provide with enumerable benefits for your Ram truck. 

• Improved handling for rough off-roading 
• Reduced damping for increased body response
• Durable materials last longer 
• Adjustable shocks can be calibrated for improved valving
• Maintains level ride height

Shock absorbers and struts are separate suspension components involved in damping spring vibrations during driving. Struts are mounted to the chassis and are directly responsible for maintaining handling while steering. Camber and caster angles are often calibrated using the truck’s strut, and struts are directly involved in alignment. Coil springs are mounted directly to struts.

When trying to understand the structural components of your suspension system it’s good to start with the springs. These maintain the height of your Ram truck and absorb the force your Ram generates while off-roading or going over a bump on the highway. Shock absorbers and struts try to limit the amount of force your spring takes, which is referred to as damping.

Shock absorbers are not integral to your suspension system, but they do increase the longevity of your springs. They are located directly next to the springs. It's not recommended you drive with broken shock absorbers or else your springs could crumble at any moment. Both aftermarket shocks and struts improve handling and stability while steering. 

Generally, there are two types of shock absorber types to choose from: twin-tube and mono-tube.  Mono-tube shocks are designed with one hydraulic cylinder that moves a piston, whereas twin-tubes contain two inner working cylinders. Mono-tube cylinders separate hydraulic fluid from nitrogen.

One chamber transmits motion from the chassis to the piston to move it through oil. This pushes the floating piston into the nitrogen chamber to reduce the amount of force being applied on the springs. Twin-tubes do not separate the nitrogen and hydraulic fluid chambers often leading to “foaming.” Foaming occurs when gas aerates inside the tube allowing precious gases to escape the tube. This causes overheating and reduces the damping ability of your shocks. 

Mono-Tube Pros

• Larger oil reservoir increases damping and leaves it continuous
• Installation angles are unrestricted
• No “foaming”
• Efficient at a wide range of temperatures
• Not prone to cavitation
• Heat is released easier
• Larger piston valve
• Internal floating piston (IFP) eliminates oil aeration 

Mono-Tube Cons

• Greater friction on seals
• Very expensive
• Some might consider them to be too stiff

Twin-Tube Pros

• Friction can be reduced
• Lower cost
• Smoother power-cycle 
• External damage won’t harm shock absorbers
• Low pressure gas reduces friction and provides a more comfortable ride

Twin-Tube Cons

• Reduced oil capacity- decreases damping ability
• Difficult installation
• Small piston
• Cavitation and oil aeration can occur

Mono-tubes offer greater off-road handling and performance. Twin-tube designs still offer great performance, but they are generally not recommended for off-roading. 

Non-adjustable shocks are a low-cost investment that offer great handling and stability. These shocks require no adjustments and will generally satisfy the requirements of most leaf spring and coil over suspensions.

On the other hand, adjustable shocks provide consistent handling and stability that won't buckle under intense heat pressure. With the right adjustments, Ram owners could significantly improve valving and even their torque. This will lead to more predictable handling on backroads.

Coil over shocks are the combination of traditional leaf springs and shock absorbers. Coil overs are lighter springs wrapped around a traditional shock absorber. They attach directly to the lower control arm of your suspension system and are located between a threaded spring perch to allow for adjustments to height and preload.

Due to their location, they allow your Dodge Ram to handle more predictably and resourcefully when driving over bumps and rough terrain. If you own a 3rd generation Dodge Ram you’ll need to check if your leaf springs and struts are compatible with a coil over kit. 

Generally, there are two types of coil overs: slip on and full coil overs. Full coil overs are matched with the existing suspension system’s strut while slip on coil overs are simply adjustable springs.

Fourth-generation Dodge Rams replaced their traditional leaf spring system with a coil over suspension system. Coil over shocks offer better handling and last longer than traditional shocks and struts. Mainly, the adjustable ride height and preload capabilities of the coil over system allow for more predictable handling and stability on the road. Coil over springs are also lighter than lowering springs further improving your Ram’s handling.

Coil Over Suspension Pros 

• Easy installation and replacement for compatible shocks 
• Predictable and safer off-road handling
• Adjustable ride height and preload
• Reduced noise and vibration
• No oil aeration or cavitation
• Improved fuel economy

Coil Over Suspension Cons

• Increased shock and shock bushing wear
• More expensive than traditional struts and shocks 
• Not compatible with all suspension systems

Different enhancements in the coil over system have also improved its racing and off-roading ability. A front internal reservoir coil over allows for better cornering and maintains leveling by reducing drops and bumps. A piggyback reservoir shock will reduce the heat generated from your coil over system and increase the life of your shocks.