Rough Country Vertex Shocks.....Should I?

[Gladiatorx2]

Hello to all! I find myself in need of advice. I have the other to buy a nearly new set of Rough Country Vertex Shocks for $500. They only have 1,000 miles on them. They lock as new.

I have a 2023 Gladiator Rubicon with the RC 3.5 lift and it has the upgrade to the N3 10 Nitrogen Shocks.

Would this be a viable upgrade considering the price? Would it be a difference? Lastly, these Shocks are designed for a 4" to 6" lift and mine is a 3.5. Any issues there? I appreciate your help!

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[Sweetums]

I have no idea about that model, but Rough Country has historically been the budget brand with equally budget performance.

If it was me, I'd put that money towards better shocks. I bet that's exactly why those are being sold used - someone learned that cheaper isn't always cheaper.

 

[Gladiatorx2]

Interestingly he replaced these with Falcons and he preferred the ride and handling of the RC's. His fenders and inner fenders were custom made for the Falcons. I don't doubt his opinion. The reviews that I read are pretty good. I know some of the members have had experience with these.

 

[Reddout99]

Although on the lower tier, I ran the RC 2.5" coil spring lift when I had my 2010 JKU. It was what I could afford at the time but after installation, I was pleasantly surprised. I had zero issues or complaints with the setup for my intended use as a daily driver. May be different for you if you intend to do more off-road and trails than I did.
As far as the lift height they were designed for, I'd do more research to see how they would work with your 3.5" lift, but I believe they are one of the shock options when ordering the 3.5" lift

 

[Gladiatorx2]

Really curious about if okay to run shocks specifically for 4-6" lift on a 3.5 lift and if the Vertex Shocks are worth the money over the N3 Rc Nitrogen Shocks.

As far as the RC lift I am happy with it. My Rubicon had the AEV spacer lift with the oem Fox Shocks as well as all of the Synergy stuff. The ride is better with more control on this one.

 

[imallcrawl]

RC is not as bad as people think. That's a good price but I'd say offer him 400. And if you don't like it, you can always upgrade later. BUT, the shocks being longer than your 3.5" lift may be an issue, but lets see what the professionals here have to say.

 

[Hootbro]

In theory your shocks could bottom out on up travel and your springs could unseat on droop unless you got limit straps.

I think it is easier to work around having shorter shocks on a taller lift with longer bump stops and shock extensions than longer shocks on a shorter lift.

Sounds like you are just trading one problem for another.

 

[Gladiatorx2]

He seems to think that it would be okay, mainly due to the longer bump stops that came with the 3.5 kit. I am leaning that way as the lower part of their intended application 4" lift and mine is 3.5.

Weird, but his lift is a 6" and mine is a 3.5. We measured from the axle tube to the spring perch in top and the actual difference was 1.25 and not the 2.5" that you would think. We both have the same bumper and winch.

 

[Hootbro]

He seems to think that it would be okay, mainly due to the longer bump stops that came with the 3.5 kit. I am leaning that way as the lower part of their intended application 4" lift and mine is 3.5.

Of course he thinks it is ok, he is trying to sell you the shocks. Sounds like you already have talked yourself into it regardless. Your money, your risk.

 

[Bjeepz]

Hey OP, just get the compressed lengths for the front and rear shocks, compare them to the same specs of the shocks you have now. If longer flex your Jeep until it is 3 wheeling and have a look at how much shock shaft you have left. This should give you a yes or no on the fit.

While not the same rig at all I ran 4-6 inch lift shocks on my JK that had a 3.5 inch lift. Compression was good with the bump stops from the shorter shocks, I did need to install spring retainers as the coils would unseat on extension.

I bet those shocks will fit just fine and give you more down travel

 

[Gladiatorx2]

No, I have not talked myself in to it. I am still researching to learn as much as possible. I was hoping for to learn from member(s) whom has done something like this. One had on a JKU.

After taking the advice above I found that the Vertex Shocks are 1.5" longer in the rear and 1.75" in the front. As I previously said his 6" lift and my 3.5 would appear to be 2.5" difference, but when measured from the axle tube to spring perch his is only 1.5" higher lift. That measured difference matchs the extended length very closely.

I appreciate everyone's input. I know that if I jack the Gladiator up, put the frame on jack stands, remove the lower shock mount and them lower the differential that I will have an idea. My next step would be to continue lowering the axle to the point that the longer shocks would mount. If the springs are well seated then no issues.

I assume nothing. That is a lot of work just to find out if they will work. That is why I am checking here and seeking advice.

Based on my research and measurements, any ideas?

I like the Vertex based on my research I have found that most if not all who has used them feal. I like the price as well. I also like the N3 RC Nitrogen Shocks that are on mine. I am just looking to improve what I have for a reasonable price if possible.

Thanks to all for your imput!

 

[Scotty mac]

If I was you, I'd invest in Bilstein

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