If you are comparing standard and “+2 inch” shock absorbers for a Defender, Discovery 1 or Range Rover Classic, it is important to understand what that description means. A +2-inch shock absorber does not raise the vehicle by two inches on its own.

The springs support the vehicle and largely determine its ride height. The shock absorbers control the movement of the suspension. Longer-travel shocks can provide the additional movement required by a suitably designed lifted suspension, but springs and shocks should be selected as a matched setup.

The short answer

• A +2-inch spring is intended to raise the vehicle’s suspension height by approximately two inches, subject to vehicle weight and specification.
• A +2-inch shock absorber has different extended-travel dimensions to the corresponding standard-travel version.
• Fitting +2-inch shocks alone will not create a two-inch suspension lift.
• The correct shock absorber depends on the vehicle, springs, intended load and the rest of the suspension setup.

The “+2” descriptions are related, but they do not describe the same component or perform the same job.

Springs set the height; shocks control the movement

Coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight. Their length, rate and load rating all affect the vehicle’s standing height and how much it settles when loaded.

Shock absorbers, also called dampers, resist suspension movement. They control how quickly the body and axle move after the vehicle encounters a bump, hollow or uneven surface.

A longer-travel shock may allow more axle movement in a lifted off-road setup, but it must still have suitable open and closed dimensions. A shock that is too long or too short for the complete installation can restrict movement or reach the end of its travel before the suspension is intended to stop.

What does “Plus 2” mean on TF120 and TF121 shocks?

Terrafirma identifies TF120 and TF121 as Plus 2-inch Pro Sport shock absorbers for Defender 90, 110 and 130, Discovery 1 and Range Rover Classic applications.

• TF120 front shock absorber: 605mm open length and 360mm closed length.
• TF121 rear shock absorber: 613mm open length and 383mm closed length.

These dimensions apply specifically to those part numbers. “+2 inch” should not be treated as a universal measurement that can be transferred between unrelated shock absorbers or vehicle models.

For a complete front and rear set, see the TF120 and TF121 Terrafirma Pro Sport Plus 2-inch shock absorber set.

The rear shocks are also available separately as a pair of TF121 Pro Sport Plus 2-inch rear shock absorbers.

What if the packaging does not say “+2 inch”?

Do not rely solely on the wording or photograph on the outer packaging. Packaging can be shared between several products and may display the brand or shock absorber range without describing every application.

Check the part number printed on the shock absorber or its label. In this case, TF120 identifies the Plus 2-inch front shock and TF121 identifies the Plus 2-inch rear shock.

If the part number on the product does not agree with the order or product listing, check it before fitting. Once suspension components have been fitted, marked or used, returning them can become more difficult.

Will +2-inch shocks lift a standard-height Land Rover?

No. Replacing standard shock absorbers with longer-travel shocks does not provide the spring force required to hold the body two inches higher.

If a vehicle is sitting lower than expected, the cause is more likely to involve tired or unsuitable springs, additional permanent weight, incorrect components or another suspension problem. Longer shocks are not a remedy for sagging springs.

For a standard-height vehicle, standard-travel shocks will normally be the starting point unless the exact product application or a properly designed suspension kit states otherwise.

Does every two-inch lift need shocks marked “+2”?

Not automatically. Suspension geometry and shock dimensions differ between vehicle models and between complete lift kits.

For example, the Terrafirma TF227 Discovery 2 two-inch lift kit is specified with two-inch lift springs and matched standard-travel All Terrain shock absorbers. That is a different vehicle and application, but it demonstrates why the spring height and shock description should not be treated as interchangeable labels.

Follow the specification of the complete kit or the application information for the exact vehicle. Do not assemble a suspension setup solely by matching products that contain “+2” in their names.

Standard, medium-load or heavy-load springs?

Lift height is only part of the decision. Springs are also offered with different load ratings.

• Standard-load springs are generally intended for vehicles without substantial permanent additional equipment.
• Medium-load springs may suit vehicles carrying items such as a winch, steel bumper, drawer system or regular expedition equipment, subject to the kit specification.
• Heavy-load springs are intended for applications with the stated permanent additional weight. They can give an unnecessarily firm ride when fitted to an unladen vehicle.

Occasional luggage or a trailer does not necessarily justify heavy-load springs. Consider the equipment that remains on the vehicle every day and check the load guidance for the particular spring set.

Checks to make before ordering

1. Identify the exact vehicle. Confirm the model, year and axle application.
2. Check the current ride height. Establish whether the vehicle is standard height, already lifted or sitting low because of worn springs.
3. Look for existing modifications. Check the springs and shocks for visible part numbers and note any spring spacers, altered mounts or conversion parts.
4. Account for permanent weight. Include winches, bumpers, storage systems, roof equipment and other items that remain fitted.
5. Choose a matched setup. Confirm that the spring rating and shock dimensions are suitable for the same vehicle and intended lift.
6. Check what else the installation requires. Depending on the vehicle and extent of the modification, brake hoses, ABS wiring, bump stops, propshafts, suspension arms and anti-roll-bar components may require inspection or additional work.

Fitting and inspection

Suspension work involves supporting the vehicle and axle safely, and coil springs can store considerable energy. Use the correct workshop procedure and suitable equipment. If you are unsure, have the components fitted by an experienced workshop.

Shock absorbers should normally be replaced in axle pairs so that damping remains consistent from side to side. During installation, inspect the bushes, washers, retaining hardware and mounting points rather than automatically reusing worn or corroded parts.

After any suspension-height change, check that hoses and wiring remain free throughout the available steering and suspension movement. The vehicle’s wheel alignment, steering behaviour and fastener torque should also be checked as appropriate.

Choosing the correct suspension parts with JGS4x4

JGS4x4 is an independent UK supplier of parts and accessories for Land Rover vehicles. We stock standard replacement suspension components as well as matched upgrades for road, working and off-road vehicles.

If you are uncertain whether you need standard-travel or Plus 2-inch shocks, contact us before ordering. Please include your vehicle model and year, the part numbers currently fitted, its approximate suspension lift and details of any permanent additional equipment.

Browse suspension upgrades at JGS4x4, or view the TF120 and TF121 Plus 2-inch shock absorber set.