
( Brand: Rough Country ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 23254-E ), ( UPC: 843030182397 )
The **Rough Country 23254 3.5" 5.5" N3 Rear Shocks** are a premium, high-performance upgrade designed specifically for the **1987 1989 Dodge Raider 4WD**, ensuring a perfect balance of comfort, durability, and off-road capability. These shocks are engineered with **N3 (Nitro-3) nitrogen-charged gas technology**, which eliminates oil sloshing and maintains consistent damping performance under extreme conditions whether you're tackling rough terrain, hauling heavy loads, or cruising on paved roads. The **adjustable rebound damping** allows for fine-tuned control, letting you dial in the shock s responsiveness to match your driving style, from aggressive off-roading to smooth highway stability. Built with **high-quality steel construction**, these shocks are reinforced to withstand the rigors of daily use, heavy-duty towing, and off-road abuse, reducing sag and maintaining optimal ride height even under heavy loads. The **3.5" 5.5" travel range** provides exceptional articulation, allowing your Raider to climb steep inclines, navigate deep ruts, and maintain ground clearance without bottoming out. Whether you're modifying your Raider for serious off-roading adventures or simply upgrading for a firmer, more controlled ride, these shocks deliver **superior performance, longevity, and reliability** making them an essential component for any serious Raider owner looking to maximize both on-road comfort and off-road prowess.
### Pros and Cons of Buying Rough Country 23254 3.5-5.5" N3 Rear Shocks for a 1987-1989 Dodge Ram 50/150 (4WD)
#### **Pros:**1. **Improved Ride Comfort** These shocks are designed to handle rough terrain better than stock units, reducing bounce and improving stability on uneven roads or off-road conditions.
2. **Enhanced Off-Road Performance** The adjustable rebound damping (3.5" to 5.5" travel) allows for better articulation over obstacles, making them suitable for light off-roading or rough trails.
3. **Durability** Rough Country shocks are built with heavy-duty materials, including reinforced springs and corrosion-resistant components, which can last longer than OEM shocks in demanding conditions.
4. **Better Control Under Load** The N3 series is designed to handle heavier payloads better than stock shocks, which is beneficial if you carry extra weight (cargo, towing, or aftermarket modifications).
5. **Compatibility** These shocks are specifically engineered for the 1987-1989 Dodge Ram 50/150 (4WD), ensuring proper fitment without modification.
6. **Reduced Body Roll** The improved damping helps minimize body lean during cornering or aggressive driving, enhancing handling.
7. **Easier Installation** They are drop-in replacements for stock shocks, requiring minimal modification and no alignment adjustments in most cases.
#### **Cons:**1. **Higher Cost** These shocks are more expensive than OEM replacements, which may not be justified if you primarily drive on smooth roads.
2. **Potential Overkill for Daily Driving** If your Ram is mostly used for highway or city driving, the extra travel and stiffness may make the ride feel firmer than desired, reducing comfort.
3. **Maintenance Requirements** Like any high-performance shock, these may require more frequent servicing (e.g., checking for leaks, adjusting rebound settings) compared to stock units.
4. **Possible Noise** Some users report slightly more road noise or clunking from the heavier-duty construction, though this varies by driving conditions.
5. **Limited Adjustability** While the rebound damping is adjustable, these shocks do not offer full multi-adjustability (like some aftermarket shocks), which may be a drawback for enthusiasts seeking fine-tuned suspension tuning.
6. **Potential for Sagging** If the springs are not pre-loaded correctly during installation, the suspension may sag excessively, affecting ride height and handling.
7. **Warranty Limitations** Some aftermarket shocks have shorter warranties than OEM parts, which could be a concern if reliability is a priority.
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### **Conclusion:**The Rough Country 23254 N3 shocks are a solid choice for owners of the 1987-1989 Dodge Ram 50/150 (4WD) who prioritize off-road capability, durability, and improved handling over ultra-smooth ride comfort. They excel in rough terrain, heavy-duty applications, and situations where stock shocks would struggle. However, if your primary use is highway or urban driving, the firmer ride and higher cost may not be worth the investment.
For most **off-road or mixed-use** Ram owners, these shocks provide a noticeable upgrade in performance and longevity. If you re unsure, consider testing them on a short-term basis or pairing them with a softer spring setup (if available) to balance comfort and capability.
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### **Recommendation:** **Buy these shocks if:**- You frequently drive on rough roads, trails, or unpaved surfaces.
- You carry heavy loads (cargo, towing, or aftermarket modifications).
- You want a durable, long-lasting upgrade over stock shocks.
- You prefer a firmer, more controlled ride over extreme comfort.
**Avoid or reconsider if:**- Your Ram is primarily used for daily highway or city driving.
- You re on a tight budget and can t justify the extra cost for minimal use cases.
- You prefer a softer, more cushioned ride and are unwilling to compromise comfort.
For the best results, pair these shocks with a **high-quality spring set** (if needed) and ensure proper installation to avoid sagging or alignment issues. If possible, test them on a known rough stretch of road before committing to full-time use.
Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty. Construction: Drilling required: No. Special Features: Sold in pairs. Style: trucks,offload,jeeps,wrangler,suspension.
Military Spec. Manufacturer: Rough Country. Material: Rubber. Model: Rough Country 3.5-5.5 N3 Rear Shocks for 87-89 Dodge Raider 4WD - 23254 E.
Vehicle Service Type: 1987 1989 4WD Dodge Raider. Spring Loaded Piston Rod Seal. Features natural rubber bushings and an eye-catching metallic silver paint. Auto Part Position: Rear.
Rough Country 3.5-5.5 N3 Rear Shocks for 87-89 Dodge Raider 4WD - 23254 E: Brand. Exterior Finish: Painted.