Uploaded January 2018 | Updated September 2026, 7 hours ago
Having trouble determining the correct length of limit strap(s) you need for YOUR rig and shock setup?
Limit straps are one of the most important — and most misunderstood — parts of an off-road suspension setup. In this video, Adam breaks down:
* how to measure limit straps
* proper mounting position
* eye-to-eye measurement
* the “1-for-12” stretch rule
* protecting shock travel
* why shock overextension destroys suspension components
The biggest mistake people make is ordering a strap the exact same length as the mounting measurement without accounting for stretch. That’s how shocks get overextended. Using a simple equation, we show how to properly size your straps so your suspension stays in the shock’s sweet spot while still maximizing usable travel.
We also cover:
* proper tab placement
* Stover lock hardware
* suspension safety
* shock protection
* off-road suspension setup tips
18.5” mounting distance
× 0.083 stretch factor
= roughly 1.5” of stretch
That means:
18.5” eye-to-eye measurement
minus 1.5” stretch
= 17” limit strap needed
To order your limit straps:
wideopendesign.com/collections/limit-straps/products/limit-straps
Timestamps:
In off-roading, your suspension's biggest enemy isn't the rock—it's gravity. Overextending a high-end shock can lead to catastrophic internal damage, and that’s where the limit strap comes in. In this technical guide, the Wide Open Design team breaks down the "1-for-12" rule: for every 12 inches of strap, you must account for one inch of stretch [01:23]. We walk you through the precise math needed to convert your eye-to-eye measurement into the perfect order length [01:36]. By properly calculating for that tension, you ensure your 14-inch shocks stay in their "sweet spot," protecting your investment while maintaining maximum usable travel [04:06]. Don't guess on your suspension safety—measure twice and account for the stretch.
Follow us on Social Media:
Instagram: /WideOpenDesign
Facebook: facebook.com/WideOpenDesign
Located in Murfreesboro, TN, Wide Open Design is a constant trend setter in the off road industry. We build vehicles that are unique, reliable, and full of attitude.
We also stock a full retail (and walk-in showroom) store with a full line of parts for off road vehicles.
http://www.wideopendesign.com?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Limit%20Straps
Having trouble determining the correct length of limit strap(s) you need for YOUR rig and shock setup?
Limit straps are one of the most important — and most misunderstood — parts of an off-road suspension setup. In this video, Adam breaks down:
* how to measure limit straps
* proper mounting position
* eye-to-eye measurement
* the “1-for-12” stretch rule
* protecting shock travel
* why shock overextension destroys suspension components
The biggest mistake people make is ordering a strap the exact same length as the mounting measurement without accounting for stretch. That’s how shocks get overextended. Using a simple equation, we show how to properly size your straps so your suspension stays in the shock’s sweet spot while still maximizing usable travel.
We also cover:
* proper tab placement
* Stover lock hardware
* suspension safety
* shock protection
* off-road suspension setup tips
18.5” mounting distance
× 0.083 stretch factor
= roughly 1.5” of stretch
That means:
18.5” eye-to-eye measurement
minus 1.5” stretch
= 17” limit strap needed
To order your limit straps:
wideopendesign.com/collections/limit-straps/products/limit-straps
Timestamps:
In off-roading, your suspension's biggest enemy isn't the rock—it's gravity. Overextending a high-end shock can lead to catastrophic internal damage, and that’s where the limit strap comes in. In this technical guide, the Wide Open Design team breaks down the "1-for-12" rule: for every 12 inches of strap, you must account for one inch of stretch [01:23]. We walk you through the precise math needed to convert your eye-to-eye measurement into the perfect order length [01:36]. By properly calculating for that tension, you ensure your 14-inch shocks stay in their "sweet spot," protecting your investment while maintaining maximum usable travel [04:06]. Don't guess on your suspension safety—measure twice and account for the stretch.
Follow us on Social Media:
Instagram: /WideOpenDesign
Facebook: facebook.com/WideOpenDesign
Located in Murfreesboro, TN, Wide Open Design is a constant trend setter in the off road industry. We build vehicles that are unique, reliable, and full of attitude.
We also stock a full retail (and walk-in showroom) store with a full line of parts for off road vehicles.
http://www.wideopendesign.com?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Limit%20Straps

![Interlocking Tube Disconnect Clamps Overview - Wide Open Design
When youre building a cage that needs to withstand heavy impacts and turnovers, you dont want to rely on a standard smooth-to-smooth connection. In this technical overview, the Wide Open Design team breaks down our completely redesigned Interlocking Tube Disconnect Clamps [00:54]. By bringing manufacturing in-house, we’ve solved the common frustration of overly tight tolerances that lead to broken bolts after powder coating [01:08]. Our new design features an opened tolerance of about eight to ten thousandths, ensuring a perfect fit every time [01:26]. Plus, we’ve eliminated tapped holes in favor of a bolt-straight-through design with captive nuts [01:40], making installation in tight spaces significantly easier. Get the strength of an interlocking connection with the precision fit that only WOD engineering provides.
Chromoly Interlocking Tube Clamps: https://wideopendesign.com/collections/disconnects-flanges
Body Panel Tabs & Flat Panel Tabs with 1/4-20 NutSerts
https://wideopendesign.com/collections/brackets-tabs Interlocking Tube Disconnect Clamps Overview - Wide Open Design](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/T4jfjvQ2IcM/mqdefault.jpg)







![Wide Open Design - Shop Update
Were giving you guys a little inside look on what we currently have going on in the shop. Theres always something cool going on around here.
[00:00:24] – Machining & Parts: A look at the Haas lathe and mill where aluminum weld pucks and Crane Axle castings are machined.
[00:01:10] – 7075 Aluminum Links: An overview of the high-grade American aluminum used for custom suspension links.
[00:01:41] – Jeep CJ Chassis: A completed chassis and cage setup designed to allow easy removal and replacement of a CJ body.
[00:02:41] – Don Ryan’s Ultimate Trail Machine: A detailed look at the California-bound buggy featuring four-wheel steering and bypass shocks.
[00:03:14] – Texas 4-Seat Revolution 2.0: Final assembly of a family-style trail rig with a Mass Motorsports 416 and 14-bolt axles.
[00:04:13] – The Transfer Case Fight: A real-world look at the team troubleshooting a planetary range box issue on a current build.
[00:05:03] – New Jeep JL Project: A brief glimpse at a brand-new orange Jeep JL fresh off the lot for a custom build.
[00:06:03] – The Pro-Touring LJ Build: A deep dive into the Jeep LJ chassis designed to retain the factory top, doors, and A/C.
https://www.wideopendesign.com Wide Open Design - Shop Update](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/VujgcPwWyDc/mqdefault.jpg)
