FOX Performance Elite 8.5-Inch Air Shock with 1-1/4-Inch Shaft, Normal Valving, 40/90 – Part Number FOX981-20-048

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 is designed for off-road competition vehicles, including rock crawlers that demand adjustable spring control and race-proven damping performance. Its air spring rate can be finely adjusted by varying the nitrogen charge pressure, allowing builders and tuners to tailor suspension response to vehicle weight, terrain, and driving style. The 8.5-inch shock uses FOX Performance Elite damping technology for consistent control and supports the same servicing and valving adjustment procedures used across the Performance Elite off-road shock family.

Part Number FOX981-20-048 features normal valving rated at 40/90 and a black and zinc finish combination. The lightweight hollow shaft helps reduce unsprung weight while maintaining strength for demanding off-road use. A seamless alloy body with a durable clear-coated, zinc-plated finish provides corrosion resistance, while black anodized CNC-machined aluminum components contribute to durability and precise assembly. The hard chrome-plated 4130 chromoly steel shaft is engineered for strength and wear resistance.

The FOX Performance Elite air shock is owner-serviceable and rebuildable, making it suitable for long-term competition use and maintenance. JM92 MIL-SPEC oil, developed specifically for off-road racing, supports reliable damping performance under demanding conditions. Custom valving options are available through qualified suspension professionals. Vehicle-specific fitment should be verified before installation, including mounting configuration, travel requirements, clearance, and nitrogen charging procedures. Professional installation and setup are recommended for competition applications.

What's Included: One FOX Performance Elite air shock with normal 40/90 valving and the specified black and zinc finish. Mounting hardware, vehicle-specific brackets, nitrogen, and installation tools are not included unless supplied separately by the installer or application-specific kit.

Features:

• Adjustable Air Spring Rate: Vary nitrogen charge pressure to fine-tune spring rate for vehicle weight, terrain, and driving conditions.
• Performance Elite Damping: Uses FOX race-proven off-road damping technology for consistent control and compatibility with Performance Elite servicing and valving adjustments.
• Lightweight Hollow Shaft: Helps reduce unsprung weight while delivering the strength required for competition rock-crawling applications.
• Serviceable Construction: Owner-serviceable and rebuildable design supports long-term maintenance, with custom valving options available.

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