Re: What do I need to know to change shocks?

Posted by Craig Hendrickson On 2011/3/14 15:27:08

Shocks are one of the easier components to change, even for an amateur, especially with a lift. It's a simple remove and replace on the fronts.

The only caveat on the front is do not overtighten the top nuts (squish the rubber grommets). The caveat on the rears is that you may need to support the rear axle as the S-bars (inverse Watts link) may not support the dropped rear axle assembly, i.e., it will hang by the rear shocks at maximum extension. By lifting the rear axle assembly some, it will unload the pull on the shocks so you can get them off and new ones on.

Standard hand tools are all you need, but an impact wrench is useful. The 56 front shocks are a "T" bar on the bottom, so it not possible to install them upside down. The 55s have straight connectors on each, so the inner chrome rod goes up. The rears cannot be installed upside down. There is no right or left hand.

A little PB Blaster applied to the nuts will persuade rusty parts.

Craig