Just starting to look for a mild lift for an X I don't have yet. I will probably buy the OR model. I love Bilstein shocks. My question is... Do I need new shocks needed when using longer shackles? Or are the stockers long enough? Also what are my choices for shackles?

I used the stock Bilsteins when I ran only rear shackles. Plenty long enough for that. If you decide later that you want to install an AAL to compliment the shackles, they you'll want to swap out your shocks for something longer.

With just shackles or just an AAL you are fine with the stock shocks, but with both you probably should be looking for a longer travel shock. When you do both, it also is wise to get the extended rear brake lines. Options, Calmini Shackles, AC has two types of shackles, as well as a few others whose names are eluding me right now.

I'know I'm going to kick myself after I get the answer but... What/who is AC?

http://www.4x4parts.com/public_html/shop/

This package (http://www.4x4parts.com/public_html/shop/index.php3?page=shop/flypage&product_id=3835&category_id=a18d5b35956fbe8fe22d1baba4a08452&ps_session=4a27e5a58a2acc4ee236a379ae56e35f) would suit your needs if you're looking for a "mild lift".

So um........HOW MUCH OF A PAININ THE ASS IS IT TO USE A COIL COMPRESSOR?

mc

You should be able to borrow some from your local auto parts store. Or have your local store change out the coils, just take the coil/shock combo to them. I have a friend at a small local shop that I use his. You have to be careful but it's not hard.

Thats good to know.

So um........HOW MUCH OF A PAININ THE ASS IS IT TO USE A COIL COMPRESSOR?

A huge one if you're not using the right ones. I spent big bucks on 2 OEM coil compressors and 2 Craftsman compressors. Turn out that in the end I was able to compress the coils enough to pull out the old shocks and install new ones, however the hooks on my heavy duty compressors were too beefy to get back out of the AC coil. The only other person I know of on here that's compressed on his own used Harbor Freight compressors, which have thinner hooks. He was successful.

I compressed my own with an old set of (I think) Craftsman compressors. I have had them for 15 or so years (used them to install springs on my Camarao).

I had some problem getting the hooks out, but there was a trick to it.

I'm guessing they changed the design then because I'd have had to cut these ones out.