Sense-aTrac, Reflex or RSX

[Xtreme XJ]

Seeing as Monroe & Rancho are Tenneco shocks I was wondering which is better for a "temporary shock"
Is the RSX simular to the Sense-aTrac or the Reflex? Is one better than the other?
While the $$ isn't as important as the right shock if I can get the same shock without the "Rancho" $$ it wouldn't hurt my feelings.
Thanks for any info./ideas.
Curt (aka Xtreme XJ)

 

[jlake1]

Reflex and "RSX" are the same shock. Only difference is Rancho sticker.

As for the sensa-trac, it operates exactly the opposite as the other two. While the reflex and RSX operate with relatively stiff dampening rates, they have a spring loaded piston valve design that allows more fluid to move through the valve during brief, high load situations (ie. hitting a pothole).

On the other hand, the sensa-trac operates with bypass vanes during the "normal" travel portion of the shock, allowing fluid to pass both through the valve as well as around it. This provides a softer ride during most conditions. However, as the shock reaches the extent of it's travel, the vanes dissapear, and all the fluid must pass through the valve.

I would most definately suggest the Reflex or the RSX for any light duty truck application over the Sensa-trac.

Hope this novel answered your question.

Jay

 

[Xtreme XJ]

Thanks Jay.... are you aware of a site/place to get the extended/crush lengths of the Reflex shocks? Also is there any reason you can think of to go with the "Rancho" as opposed to the Reflex?
Thanks for the help.....
Curt (aka Xtreme XJ)

 

[Cheropair]

I understand what you are going through, did this on my '96 - this is what I learned...

Reflex are basically OEM replacements, with a few token "mild" lifts available, but no applications for the lifts in the book that I saw. RSX are aimed at aftermarket "bling-bling" factor, and they do include the longer lengths required for taller lifts. Reflex and RSX seem to ride and control the same, they come out of the same plant, and the Tenneco rep couldn't tell me the difference, if any other than the color. I've had both, couldn't tell the difference, but my wife likes the ride - I appreciate the control, good shocks IMHO.

O'Reilly auto parts let me peruse their book that had all of the lengths listed, it also lists the particular ends that are available, with parts numbers. If all else fails, or you're lazy and don't want to think about it, call Tenneco 1-734-384-7804

http://www.tenneco-automotive.com/frames/rancho.html
http://www.tenneco-automotive.com/frames/monroe.html