FOX Performance Elite 18-Inch Air Shock, 1-1/4-Inch Shaft, Normal Valving, 40/90 - Part Number 981-20-053

The design of the off-road Performance Elite air shock allows for infinite adjustability of the spring rate by varying the nitrogen charge pressure. FOX's first air shock was invented by Bob Fox back in 1974 and has been highly refined in the 30-plus years we’ve been producing them. The off-road Performance Elite air shock uses the identical race-proven performance damping technology as our other Performance Elite Series off-road shocks, so servicing and valving adjustments are the same. Incredibly strong yet lightweight hollow shock shafts further reduce weight on these shocks that are ideal for competition rock crawlers. Rebuildable and serviceable. Custom valving options available.

• JM92 MIL-SPEC oil developed specifically for off-road racing
• Durable clear coated, zinc plated seamless alloy body
• Durable Clear Coated; Zinc Plated Seamless Alloy Body
• Black Anodized CNC Machined Aluminum Components
• Hard Chrome Plated 4130 Chromoly Steel Shaft
• Hard chome plated 4130 chromoly steel shaft
• Owner serviceable and rebuildable

The FOX Performance Elite air shock, Part Number 981-20-053, is designed for competition rock crawlers and demanding off-road applications. Its nitrogen-charged air spring provides infinite spring-rate adjustability, allowing suspension tuning by varying air pressure to match vehicle weight, terrain, and driving conditions. This air shock combines lightweight construction with race-proven damping technology from the FOX Performance Elite off-road shock lineup.

FOX uses the same performance damping technology across its Performance Elite off-road shocks, helping simplify servicing and valving adjustments. The shock is rebuildable and owner serviceable, while custom valving options are available for specialized suspension setups. A lightweight hollow shaft helps reduce unsprung weight without sacrificing the strength needed for challenging off-road use.

Construction includes a durable clear-coated, zinc-plated seamless alloy body, black anodized CNC-machined aluminum components, and a hard chrome-plated 4130 chromoly steel shaft. JM92 MIL-SPEC oil, developed specifically for off-road racing, supports consistent damping performance under demanding operating conditions. The FOX 981-20-053 uses normal 40/90 valving and is finished in a black-and-zinc configuration. Professional installation and setup are recommended to ensure correct mounting, nitrogen pressure, and suspension tuning.

Key Product Specifications & Technical Data

• Brand: FOX
• Part Number: 981-20-053
• Product Type: Off-road air shock
• Series: Performance Elite
• Shock Length: 18 inches
• Shaft Diameter: 1-1/4 inches
• Valving: Normal, 40/90
• Construction: Zinc-plated alloy body with chromoly steel shaft

What's Included

One FOX Performance Elite air shock. Vehicle-specific mounting hardware, brackets, nitrogen charging equipment, and installation instructions are not specified and should be verified before purchase.

Features:

• Infinite spring-rate adjustability through nitrogen charge pressure for precise off-road suspension tuning.
• Race-proven Performance Elite damping technology supports consistent control and allows service and valving adjustments using familiar FOX procedures.
• Lightweight hollow shock shaft helps reduce unsprung weight while maintaining strength for competition rock-crawling applications.
• Rebuildable and owner serviceable design with custom valving options available for specialized setups.

Air Freight Prohibited: false
Not Carb Approved: false
Carb Acknowledgement Required: false
Ltl Freight Required: false
Prop 65: Y
Part Type: automotive
Epa: N/A
Regular Stock: t
Units Per Sku: 1