how to install the shocks
Verified Reply - Steve
Hi None, glad to help! Here is the instructions to install the shock absorbers. Raise the car using a floor jack, placed under the side of the first shock absorber you wish to replace. If you have access to a hydraulic lift, that's even better. Remove the lug nuts on the tire with a ratchet and pull the wheel clear to get a good look at the old absorber. This may not be necessary on some vehicles, or if you have a lift which allows you to get at the shocks easily. Clear the brake line by removing any clips or holders with a flat-head screwdriver and gently pulling it clear. This step may not be necessary on some types of vehicle. Use a wrench or pair of vice-grip pliers to remove the top nut on the old shock absorber. Take care when you do so that the piston shaft does not rotate along with the nut. If you need to, lift the nut high enough on the threads so that you can comfortably fit the pliers underneath, then remove the nut while griping the thread firmly with the pliers. Remove the washer and bushing from the top of the shock. With the nut removed, they should just slide right off. Remove the two nuts on the bottom of the shock absorber with a wrench or ratchet, then pull the shock absorber itself free of the suspension system. If it is stuck in place, apply a few firm but gentle taps with a hammer to loosen it. Fit the new shock into place up through the spring and control arms of the suspension system. If the shock is dangling below the apparatus, you can raise it by place a second floor jack beneath it, and "jacking" it up into place. Then place a temporary nut and washer on the top of the shock to hold it in place (the ones from the old shock should do just fine. Tighten the nuts at the top and bottom of the shock with a wrench or pliers. Do the bottom nuts first, then remove the temporary nuts from the top of the shock and install the new washer, bushing and nut in their place (all three should be included with the new shock). Replace the brake line to its former position if needed, fitting any clips or holders back into place with a screwdriver. Replace the tire and tighten the lug nuts if applicable. Lower the car to the ground. Repeat this process with the other three wheels as appropriate.