As ARB’s dedicated suspension division, Old Man Emu (OME) has been setting the standard in 4WD suspension performance for decades. Our systems are known for delivering reliability, comfort, and control across a wide range of driving conditions. If you’ve been around for a while the OME suspension lineup was always split between two very different extremes: the affordable and entry-level Nitrocharger, and the ultra-premium and race-inspired BP-51.
Many of our customers told us they didn’t need the full adjustability or complexity of remote reservoirs, but still wanted better control, longevity, and ride quality than the entry-level shocks. There wasn’t a clear middle-ground option, so we built one.
Choosing the right suspension setup can be a challenge, especially when your vehicle does more than one job. Most of us aren’t building full-time rock crawlers or race trucks. We’re commuting during the week, loading up for weekend trail runs, hauling gear, towing trailers, and trying to keep it all comfortable and controlled. The Old Man Emu MT64 monotube shock absorber was developed specifically for these real-world demands, built for multi-use 4WD owners who need their suspension to perform reliably on the road and off the pavement.
Want to know what makes the MT64 different and whether it’s the right fit for your build? Let’s get into it.
What are the Old Man Emu MT64 Monotube Shocks?
The MT64 is a monotube shock, built around a large 64mm (2.5in) internal piston that is housed inside a 2.8-inch hard-anodized aluminum body. These were built as some of the largest monotube shocks on the market. The oversized body holds more oil, which helps manage heat and maintain consistent performance, whether you’re hauling heavy gear, covering long distances, or navigating tough terrain.
Inside the MT64 is a high-flow digressive piston that works alongside an Internal Floating Piston (IFP) to keep the oil and nitrogen gas separated. This design helps prevent foaming under stress, which means more consistent damping and less risk of shock fade when things heat up. The result? A smoother, more controlled ride across changing conditions.
One of the most practical features of these shocks is its adjustable spring seat. On the MT64 shocks you get six height settings on the front coilovers. This design makes it easy to fine-tune your ride height to match your vehicle’s setup. As you start adding weight, you can simply adjust the spring perch instead of replacing coil springs. It’s a practical solution that keeps your suspension dialed in without the extra hassle.
And finally, the MT64 shocks are engineered for long-term durability. Because they’re fully rebuildable, worn components can be replaced without discarding the entire shock. This not only extends the life of the product but also makes it a more cost-effective solution for those planning to keep their vehicle for the long haul.
Key Features & Specs
- 2.8” 6061 aluminum monotube body with a 64mm high-flow digressive piston for better heat dissipation and responsive damping
Hard-anodized finish for durability and improved heat dissipation. - Gas-charged with nitrogen to prevent foaming under stress.
- 1/8” aluminum wall and forged shaft guards for added strength.
- Adjustable spring seat with six preload positions on front coilovers.
- 7/8” shaft with multi-lip seals and sealed bump cap for debris protection.
- Double-bonded bushings to reduce vibration and road noise.
- Fully rebuildable and serviceable.
- 3-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Ride Height & Spring Options
As I mentioned earlier, one of the best features of the MT64 is how easy it is to fine-tune your ride height. Instead of using spacers or swapping out coil springs every time your build changes, the MT64 front struts feature a snap-ring style spring perch with six machined grooves built into the shock body. Each position is spaced in 5mm increments, allowing you to adjust the spring preload and dial in lift from approximately 0 to 3 inches.
This adjustability gives you the ability to match your suspension to your load. You can even make small preload adjustments to compensate for vehicle lean, all while staying within the recommended lift range. Here is a quick guide to helping you understand the grooves:
- Bull Bar, Winch & Extras
- Steel Bull Bar & Winch
- Steel Bull Bar
- Alloy/Polymer Bull Bar
- No Accessories
- No Accessories - Low Height
That said, your spring selection still plays a critical role. While the preload ring gives you tuning flexibility, you’ll still need to choose coil springs based on the constant weight your vehicle is carrying in both the front and rear. Choosing the correct spring ensures you maintain proper ride quality, support, and control.
What You Need to Know About Installation & Setup
Installing the MT64 system is a straightforward bolt-on process with no cutting, welding, or major modifications required. If you’ve installed a suspension before, this will feel very similar.
That said, suspension isn’t something you want to rush. Take the time to properly torque everything, check clearances, and follow all the necessary steps.
If you’re not confident doing the installation yourself, we recommend working with a trusted 4x4 or off-road shop. And don’t forget, once everything is installed, an alignment should be done.
Who were the ARB MT64 Shocks Built For?
The MT64 is designed for drivers who want improved ride quality, stability, and control without the need for constant tuning or high-maintenance components. It’s built to handle the weekend warrior who may also travel long distances. If you’re still unsure if this is for you, let me break it down who this would be a good option for:
- Daily drivers looking to reduce body roll, nose dive, and the floaty feel of factory suspension.
- Weekend overlanders running light to moderate constant loads.
- Regular towing on highways and unpaved roads.
- Long-distance travelers covering a mix of pavement, gravel, and rugged terrain.
If your goal is to install a dependable, versatile shock that performs day in and day out, the MT64 was built with you in mind.
Final Thoughts
The MT64 fills a much-needed space in the off-road suspension world: dependable, real-world performance without added complexity. It was built for people who use their rigs the way they were meant to be used, loading up gear, heading out for the weekend, and still needing something comfortable and controlled for the drive to work on Monday.
This isn’t a race shock that needs constant tuning, and it’s not a basic setup that bottoms out the second you add a rooftop tent or rear drawer system. It’s a purpose-built solution for drivers who want to improve ride quality, stability, and handling.
If you’re looking for a suspension system that can keep up with everything your build throws at it, the MT64 is a smart upgrade you can count on.Because at the end of the day, your suspension should work hard so you don’t have to think about it.
