I am the second owner of a '98 stock Montero (purchased last Fall) with the Electronically Adjustable Shocks. I am looking to upgrade my suspension (shocks/springs/??) and am confused how to proceed. I have spent hours reading over old posts and there doesn't seem to be any concensus. I drive my truck to work everyday, but plan to spend a fair amount of time four-wheeling on the weekends in the mountains above Boulder, Colorado. I am planning to install 32x11.5 BFG's or Yoko's on my stock wheels after I do the suspension upgrade.

I have looked at the OME setup and talked to ARB. They really had no idea how their setup integrates or bypasses the stock adjustable suspension. He said I should get a 1/2" lift from their setup. That doesn't seem like very much. Additionally, he said that I should replace the Torsion bar with their model (303011).

I have read that there might be a Koni shock that integrates right into the stock adjustable system...but that has also been disputed. I like the idea of maintaining the stock adjustability, wanting a setup that works both on and off road.

I have about 500 bucks to spend on suspension right now, so I know I can't do a lot, but will have some more to spend later. I am thinking that about a 2" lift would be ideal along with the larger tires. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

With aftermarket shocks you just unplug the harness that goes to the top of each shock and replacements bolt right in. As far as keeping adjust ability I would get some regular adjustable shocks such as rancho 9000s.

Jonathan

I have found Rancho, Bilstein, Koni, KYB, etc. as shock options, but nothing seems to integrate with the factory adjustable shock system. Is that correct?

Correct stock adjustable are elictric,ranchos are adjusted wiyh a knob on the shock or with the compressor kit.I currently have the ranchos but I think I'm going to change over to the OMEs.I have the OME med Coils in the rear and will probalby go with the OME torsion bars in the front
Russ <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

I had a set of Rancho 9000's in the back of my GEN II Pajero and they only lasted a few months and they they were shot...I high recommend staying away from Ranchos. I have KYB MONOMAX's on all 4 corners now with a 2" lift and it rides very nice!!!! its a little stiff at times but you gotta take the good with the bad

Thanks! I may give it another day to mull over, but the OME complete setup is the leading candidate. I am hoping I can fit the 32x11.5x15's on the truck with just the OME setup. I don't really have the money for a body lift right now, and have no idea how much that would cost anyway.

I have convinced my wife that the full suspension and tires are necessary for us to tackle some of the trails we want to hit in the Colorado mountains this Summer.

Any other shock/spring suggestions? Thanks again.

I took the plunge and order the Complete Medium Duty suspension (4 shocks, 2 coils) from Rocky Road for $449 (part# OMEMONT91) and the OME front torsion bars for $236.65 (part# OME303011). Total price with shipping to the Boulder, Colorado area is $719.81. They said it should be here in 2 weeks. I will provide some feedback once I get it installed with the new tires.

If there are any installation gotchas, especially with the front torsion bars, please share. Thanks.