How to Choose an Old Man Emu Suspension System

At the top of every 4WDers modification list, you will find suspension. Old Man Emu offers a complete suspension system tailored to prioritize ride quality and control while accounting for the style of driving, type of terrain, and the amount of weight carried in those situations. This approach can be calibrated to suit each vehicle without the sacrifices of one-size-fits-all lift kits.

SPRING SELECTION

When undertaking remote-area travel, the need to carry sufficient fuel, water, vehicle spares, and safety equipment invariably means that your 4×4 will be fully loaded, placing a lot of strain on suspension components. Combine this with punishing off-road conditions, and the limitations of standard coil & leaf springs soon become apparent.

There is a misconception behind the meaning of a light, medium, or heavy spring. Some assume that this refers to the type of strain that the vehicle goes through. For example, a light spring for highway use or a heavy spring for extreme off-roading; this is incorrect. The front spring should account for accessories such as a bumper and/or winch. The rear spring option should account for accessories such as bumpers, tire carriers, canopies, drawers, etc. Rock slides, side steps, and roof racks distribute weight to both the front and rear of the vehicle.

LIGHT LOAD SPRINGS

A light load suspension is designed for vehicles that typically have no additional constant load installed on them. These suspensions are suitable for applications where the main objective is to increase ride height.

MEDIUM LOAD SPRINGS

A medium load suspension is designed for vehicles that carry moderate loads, such as a front bumper with no winch (or stubby/aluminum bumpers w/winch), dual batteries, or auxiliary lighting. In the rear, these vehicles should have zero-moderate loads such as camping gear, empty bed racks, or light roof top tents.

HEAVY LOAD SPRINGS

A heavy load suspension is designed for vehicles that carry a significant amount of weight on a regular basis, full-width steel bumpers with a winch and/or spare tire, loaded cargo drawers, roof racks with RTT's, etc. These suspensions are engineered to provide maximum support and durability under heavy load conditions.

In order to maintain ride quality and control, it is best to base your leaf or coil spring selection around constant weight rather than loaded weight. Accessories that are on your vehicle at all times such as bumpers, winches, roof racks, etc. are considered constant weight. Accessories such as gear, tools, tents, fridges, etc. would be considered loaded weight unless mounted to your vehicle 100% of the time. By selecting the appropriate suspension for your specific vehicle and load requirements, you can ensure a safe and comfortable ride, as well as optimal performance and durability.

SHOCK SELECTION

Old Man Emu offers an offroad shock range that is meticulously engineered to be installed with Old Man Emu springs. Options include Nitrocharger Sport, Nitrocharger Plus, MT64 and BP-51 - let's compare the key differences.

Old Man Emu Nitrocharger Sport

The Old Man Emu Nitrocharger Sport shocks deliver superior ride quality and control at all speeds, thanks to advanced valving technology and multiple discs that ensure optimal performance. Whether tackling rough trails or smooth highways, these shocks offer a balanced and finely tuned experience.

Key Features:

• Twin-tube, nitrogen-filled design
• Precisely valved for specific vehicles and loads
• Enhanced ride comfort and handling across all terrains

Old Man Emu Nitrocharger Plus

Engineered for both off-road dependability and smooth on-road driving, the Old Man Emu Nitrocharger Plus struts are a testament to advanced suspension technology. Featuring a twin-tube body and a 5-position spring seat adjustment system that caters to different weights and vehicle setups. Vehicle-specific tuning allows the Nitrocharger Plus to minimize body roll and enhance steering response, providing a controlled and comfortable ride whether you're carrying heavy loads, towing, or navigating through tough terrain. These struts offer a customized and responsive driving experience, ensuring optimal performance in various driving conditions.

Key Features:

• Twin-tube body with 5-position spring seat adjustment
• Heavy-gauge steel construction for increased strength
• Vehicle-specific tuning for varied loads and conditions

*A new range of coils (4xxx series) has been developed to suit the adjustable coil seat on the Nitrocharger Plus struts. These new coil springs are not cross-compatible with Nitrocharger Sport struts or OE struts. (Non-coil over applications continue to use the existing range of Old Man Emu coils).

Old Man Emu MT64

The Old Man Emu MT64 shock absorbers represent the pinnacle of 4WD suspension technology, combining the best features of the Nitrocharger and BP-51 shocks into a single 64mm shock body. Designed for overlanders who demand comfort, load carrying, and reliable performance, the MT64 features a 4mm thick 6061 aluminum body with a hard anodized finish for maximum protection against stone damage. The 64mm internal bore enhances sensitivity and heat dissipation, ensuring consistent damping performance over long distances and varying road conditions. The monotube design accompanied with the adjustable spring seat allows for a more accurate tuning of the shock, providing a smoother ride and better handling. 

Whether you're traveling light or carrying heavy loads, the MT64's advanced engineering ensures a comfortable and reliable journey, making it the perfect shock absorber for both daily drives and extended overland adventures.

Key Features:

• Adjustable coil spring seat (1"-3" lift)
• 4mm thick 6061 aluminum body with hard anodizing
• 64mm (2.5-in) internal bore for improved sensitivity and heat dissipation
• Monotube design for all-round comfort and reliability

*A new range of coils (4xxx series) has been developed to suit the adjustable coil seat on the MT64 struts. These new coil springs are not cross-compatible with Nitrocharger Sport struts or OE struts. (Non-coil over applications continue to use the existing range of Old Man Emu coils).

Old Man Emu BP-51

The Old Man Emu BP-51 shocks offer a revolutionary suspension experience with their internal bypass technology, allowing for on-vehicle adjustability of both rebound and compression. This level of customization ensures a tailored ride for trip requirements and differentiating terrain. Designed with remote reservoirs, the BP-51 shocks provide superior heat dissipation and consistent performance, even in the toughest terrains. 

The internal bypass system allows for progressive damping, providing maximum stability and comfort by adjusting the shocks' stiffness or softness on the fly. These long-travel shocks excel in absorbing impacts from rocks, logs, and deep washouts, making them ideal for extreme off-road adventures. With user-friendly dials for compression and rebound adjustments, the BP-51 ensures optimal performance and control, delivering the perfect balance between comfort and durability. Whether you're touring or tackling challenging trails, the BP-51 shocks guarantee a smooth and reliable ride.

Key Features:

• Internal bypass shocks with independent rebound and compression adjustability
• Remote canisters for enhanced performance and heat dissipation
• Progressive damping for maximum stability and comfort

ADDITIONAL PARTS

Old Man Emu suspension systems are designed to work in conjunction with factory components unless noted otherwise in the Vehicle Application Guide.

If additional parts are required in addition to springs and shocks, the vehicle application guide will have a section titled “Required for Installation”. Each of these components will be required to complete the suspension system.

CHOOSING YOUR OLD MAN EMU SUSPENSION SYSTEM

You are now ready to choose an Old Man Emu suspension system that suits your vehicle. Your local authorized ARB retailer can walk you through the selection process.