Which Fox steering stabilizer to choose? A comparison of the Performance 2.0 series models
Are you looking for steering dampers (steering stabilizers) but unsure where to start or which models to focus on? Or maybe you’ve already considered Fox but don’t know much about their products? You’re in the right place! We’ve prepared a comparison of Fox steering stabilizers from the Performance 2.0 series to make your decision easier. Find out which model will suit your off-road vehicle best.
What does a steering damper do?
In simple terms, a steering damper reduces vibrations transmitted from the wheels to the steering wheel. When a car’s wheel hits a bump, it causes side-to-side vibrations on the front axle. Without a steering stabilizer, or with a worn one, the steering wheel could move uncontrollably. If you’d like a deeper explanation of how a steering damper works and its role in the steering system, check out our article:
Is it worth replacing a steering stabilizer?
In most classic off-road vehicles, a steering damper is part of the standard setup. You’ll find it in vehicles with dependent front suspension on coil spring as well as leaf spring, like the Jeep Wrangler or Nissan Samurai. Whether you need a stabilizer for an American or Japanese off-roader, Fox offers something for you.
Why should you replace the steering damper, and when is it absolutely necessary? Primarily, when you plan to install larger wheels or go off-roading. Most vehicles come equipped with basic oil-based steering stabilizers, which can quickly lose their effectiveness in tough terrain because they aren’t designed for such demanding conditions.
What makes Fox steering stabilizers (Performance series) stand out?
When you start looking for an off-road steering damper, you’ll likely come across Fox, one of the most popular brands. Their flagship line is the Performance 2.0 series, which, while being their basic model, is top of its class.
Within Fox’s steering damper range, the Performance 2.0 series is the most “casual” option. It strikes a balance between good off-road performance and on-road comfort. This is why it is the most commonly chosen option for drivers who want to balance comfort during regular driving and off-road capability.
It’s worth noting that Fox also offers a Factory Race steering stabilizers line. It is designed for off-road racing, which demands uncompromising performance at consistently high speeds. Factory Race construction is highly resistant to mechanical damage and high temperatures. Either way, the key factor when choosing a steering damper will be the technological solutions
Fox steering stabilizer Performance 2.0 IFP
Build and functionality
The Performance 2.0 IFP is Fox’s most basic and standard steering stabilizer. It’s a gas damper featuring an internal nitrogen chamber, separated from the fluid by a floating IFP piston. This design prevents mixing of substances, reducing the risk of oil foaming and overheating. As a result, this steering stabilizer performs better in off-road conditions than standard factory parts.
The stabilizer’s body, like all Fox products, is made of anodized 6061-T6 aluminum, making it lightweight yet highly resistant to mechanical damage. Additionally, its nitrile rubber bushings enhance durability while also providing quieter operation.
Applications of the IFP steering stabilizer
The Fox Performance 2.0 IFP steering damper is perfect for improving the steering of your off-roader with factory wheels or when you switch to much larger ones. With factory wheels, it will provide a firmer, sportier steering response. With larger, aftermarket wheels, it becomes a necessary upgrade to handle the added stress on the factory components.
Price of the Fox gas steering stabilizer
The Performance 2.0 IFP is one of Fox’s basic models, making it the most affordable option in this comparison, with prices starting at around 330 EU. Since steering stabilizers typically work solo (although dual setups are available), this is the only cost you’ll face. Installation is simple enough to do it yourself.
Fox steering stabilizer Performance 2.0 Through Shaft (TS)
Build and functionality
When you steer or turn the wheels fully, pressure inside the gas damper increases, compensating for the piston rod’s volume. This often causes a pulling effect on the steering wheel, reducing comfort and smoothness, especially at low speeds. To eliminate this issue, Fox developed the Thru Shaft (TS) technology.
The Through Shaft stabilizer features a piston rod that passes through the cylinder on both sides, removing the rebound effect caused by gas compression. This results in more efficient damper operation and smoother steering, improving comfort and control.
Applications of the Through Shaft steering damper
The Fox Performance 2.0 TS steering damper is an excellent choice for various wheel sizes and can be used for both daily driving and serious off-roading. An off-road vehicle equipped with a TS steering stabilizer will effectively reduce vibrations reaching the steering wheel and enhance its turning ability, a competitive advantage in races over truly challenging terrain.
Price of the Fox Performance 2.0 TS steering damper
The Performance 2.0 TS is a more expensive option, with prices starting at 530 EU – almost double the price of the standard gas stabilizer. Given that a dual IFP damper setup would cost twice as much and offer similar results, the TS is a valuable investment.
Fox steering stabilizer Performance 2.0 Adjustable Through Shaft (ATS)
Build and functionality
The Fox Performance 2.0 ATS is a variation of the Thru Shaft damper with added resistance adjustment. This means you can change the stiffness, affecting how it performs and feels while driving.
A firmer setting provides more stability on paved roads, while a softer setting increases the damper’s flexibility, helping the wheels absorb bumps better and optimizing the vehicle for off-road use. Tightening the screw to the right increases road performance, while turning it to the left enhances off-road handling.
Additionally, this model features a reservoir – an external tank with extra oil and a nitrogen chamber, boosting the damper’s efficiency and reducing the risk of cavitation under heavy use.
Applications of the adjustable steering damper with reservoir
The ATS is perfect for all wheel sizes and suited for drivers who use their vehicle for overlanding, extreme off-roading, or a combination of both. The ability to adjust the steering response depending on the terrain is a huge advantage. The reservoir proves its capability for high-performance driving.
Price of the Fox Performance 2.0 ATS steering stabilizer
As expected, the adjustable Fox stabilizer is the most expensive option, with prices starting at 750 EU. However, if you plan to travel long distances in your off-road vehicle and push it hard in muddy or rough terrain, this investment will be worth it.
What to consider before choosing a Fox steering stabilizer
Before choosing the right steering stabilizer, make sure it is compatible with your vehicle model. Many Fox steering stabilizers are matched to the size of the tie rods. So, before you click ‘Buy,’ ensure you have selected the right one. If you’ve modified your vehicle, consider reinforced mounts for tie rods to enhance performance.
Klaudia Kusy
Author of the article
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