The Dobinsons IMS suspension system has quickly become a focal point for owners of the 2024 and 2025 Ford Ranger models, particularly those opting for the FX4 package. With limited alternatives presently available, the pressing question is whether it's advisable to invest in the Dobinsons IMS setup or hold out for other brands to enter the market. To answer this, we acquired a fresh 2024 Ranger FX4 and subjected it to an extensive evaluation encompassing street, trail, and high-speed conditions.
Who is Dobinsons?
Established for decades, Dobinsons is a prominent name in the world of off-road suspension. They established a solid reputation as one of Australia’s leading coil spring manufacturers, initially focusing on springs before expanding into full suspension systems. Their operational philosophy centers around building products that are designed for authentic off-road performance and load handling, enhancing everything from spring design to shock valving. "Our aim is to provide complete systems, not just bigger shocks," said a Dobinsons representative, highlighting their comprehensive design methodology.
IMS Kit Overview for the Ford Ranger
The IMS kit tailored for the 2024 Ranger prominently features several key components. Most notably, it includes matching IMS rear shocks designed specifically for Dobinsons’ leaf springs, with 55mm shock bodies and several lift options available.
Options for Front Lift & Springs
Dobinsons provides various coil spring choices tailored to individual preferences regarding ride firmness, front-end weight, and driving habits. They offer: - **Constant Load**: Ideal for vehicles with added weight like bumpers or winches. - **Standard/Medium**: For a sportier feel, making it a choice for enthusiasts. - **Comfort Spec**: Softer for those prioritizing a cushioned ride.
This flexibility allows for significant lift, primarily from the springs rather than excessive preload adjustments on the coilovers. "By deriving lift from springs, we avoid over-complicating preload, allowing a balance between performance and comfort," explained a Dobinsons technician.
Coilover Construction and Features
The IMS front coilovers feature a resilient design, enabling users to adjust ride height or sag without dismounting them from the vehicle. The threaded construction allows for straightforward modifications, while the 55mm steel bodies strike a balance between performance and budget. "We've tailored this size for midsize applications like the Ranger, ensuring suitability for varied uses," said a Dobinsons representative.
Aesthetic Choices
While performance is paramount, Dobinsons also offers visual customization. Their springs are available in Teal, Red, and Black, with the teal being the brand’s signature color, adding a dash of style to functional engineering.
Optimized Rear Shocks and Leaf Springs
In the rear, the IMS shocks are engineered to work seamlessly with Dobinsons' leaf springs. Initial tests with stock leaves indicated that users may not fully realize the shock's travel potential. "Using our leaves will ensure better ride quality and travel, really unlocking the suspension’s capabilities," remarked a Dobinsons expert.
Enhancements in Travel
A core advantage of this suspension system is the enhancement in wheel travel. When combined with Dobinsons leaf springs, users can expect over 2 inches of additional travel in the front and around 1.5 inches longer shocks compared to stock setups, turning the Ranger into a highly flexible vehicle. This means it can handle rough terrains far better than the factory setup.
On-Road Performance
Understanding that many Ranger owners primarily drive on highways, we also rigorously tested the setup on paved roads. Overall, our impressions leaned positive. The Dobinsons IMS kit manages to retain road feel without sacrificing comfort, effectively managing small bumps without overwhelming the driver. "The experience is remarkably similar to stock but with better adaptability to variable loads," shared a vehicle performance analyst during our test drives.
The Dobinsons IMS suspension system has set itself apart in the early days of the 2024 Ford Ranger's market, offering thoughtful engineering designed to enhance both off-road capability and on-road comfort. While it’s currently the only comprehensive option available, it certainly lays a strong foundation for future modifications and upgrades. For adrenaline seekers and practicality-oriented drivers alike, the investment in the Dobinsons IMS setup may very well be worth it in the long haul.