Lifted 2011-2019 Explorer 4WD owners running 1.5 to 2.5 inches of suspension lift need shocks built to match that raised geometry. Rough Country's N3 rear shocks deliver a calibrated damping profile tuned for lifted truck-based SUVs, keeping the Explorer composed on highway on-ramps and confident on loose terrain. Sold as a pair, they install in one to two hours with basic hand tools.
Ten-stage variable valving controls the ride. Rather than a fixed damping rate, the N3 shock cycles through ten valving stages to match road inputs as they happen. Low-speed bumps get a softer response; harder hits trigger firmer resistance. The result is a highway ride that stays smooth without turning vague when the pavement ends.
High-pressure nitrogen charge prevents fade. Aeration causes conventional hydraulic shocks to foam and lose damping consistency under repeated compressions. The nitrogen charge in the N3 separates the gas from the fluid, maintaining a stable, repeatable damping curve during extended off-road runs or back-to-back trail sections.
Thermal capacity matters on extended drives. The 54mm shock body increases surface area and fluid volume compared to a smaller-diameter unit, which accelerates heat dissipation and delays shock fade when the shocks are working hard on rutted terrain or repeated washboard.
Cold-weather performance stays consistent. Military-spec fluid rated to -40 degrees Celsius keeps viscosity stable in extreme cold, so the shocks respond predictably in winter conditions where conventional fluid thickens and dulls damping response.
Construction built for real-world abuse. An 18mm chromed hardened piston rod resists corrosion and bending loads across 36kN of tensile strength. A spring-loaded piston rod seal maintains positive sealing over the life of the shock, and natural rubber bushings absorb NVH at the mounting points for a quieter cabin.
Product Benefits
- 10-Stage Variable Valving: Adaptive damping tuned for both highway comfort and off-road control.
- High-Pressure Nitrogen Charged: Reduces fluid aeration and maintains consistent damping over repeated compressions.
- 54mm Shock Body: Larger diameter dissipates heat faster to resist shock fade.
- 18mm Chromed Hardened Piston Rod: Corrosion-resistant and rated for 36kN tensile strength.
- Military-Spec Fluid: Rated to -40 degrees Celsius for reliable cold-weather damping.
- Spring-Loaded Piston Rod Seal: Maintains a positive seal to prevent fluid leaks over time.
- Natural Rubber Bushings: Absorb vibrations and reduce road noise at the mounting points.
- Metallic Silver Finish: Corrosion-resistant paint with a clean appearance under the vehicle.
- Sold as a Pair: Both rear shocks included in one purchase.
- 3-Year Manufacturer's Warranty: Rough Country backs these shocks against defects for three years.
Note: Fits 2011-2019 Explorer 4WD models equipped with 1.5-2.5 inches of suspension lift only. Does not fit stock-height models. Sold as a pair.
About Rough Country: Rough Country designs and manufactures lift kits, shocks, lighting, and accessories focused on 4WD and off-road applications. The brand covers a wide range of trucks and SUVs with fitment-specific components intended to work together as a system, backed by direct technical support and warranty coverage.
WARNING: California Residents: Cancer and Reproductive Harm;
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Product Specifications & Vehicle Fitment
Review the product details and confirm compatibility with your vehicle before ordering.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Trim | Base, Limited, Platinum, Sport, XLT |
| Vehicle Fitment | 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 |
