2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 2WD Front Shock Replacement

[DiTrani]

I'm going to replace the shocks this week. I rolled under the truck and it looks pretty easy, but I wanted to see if there is any hard-gained wisdom out there. Is this as easy as it looks? Searching didn't turn up anything.

 

[SBall]

I swapped out my OEM shocks with Bilsteins. Had no issues other than a lower bolt loosening up on our Alaska trip last summer. I probably didn't have it torqued up properly when I installed them. Very easy to do. I have seen threads from the 4x4ers regarding some issues with Bilstein's mounting instructions, but this may not apply to us 4x2 folk.

Steve

 

[jwoelfle]

The problems the 4x4 guys have do not apply to us 2 wheelers. I installed the Bilsteins on my 02 2wd a few months ago and heard a knocking just as the 4x4 guys described. After numerous rounds of removing and replacing the upper shock bushings, I discovered the knock was coming from the lower mount. I thought I tightened the bejeebers out of those lower bolts but it wasn't enough. I grabbed the shop manual just to see what they call for torque specs to double check against my he man torque. The book calls for 125 lbs. I grabbed my torque wrench and I wasn't even close. Torqued to 125 and I haven't heard a knock out of them since. You will be amazed at the improvement of ride quality... I'll never use anything else on this truck. F4-B46-1907-H1 is the correct Bilstein part number for the fronts. Got them at Autozone for $59 ea.

 

[DiTrani]

Thanks guys.

 

[Straight6Jeff]

Becareful about letting the front wheels droop without shocks... The ABS wires can get cut by the upper control arm and spring pocket... . I learned the hard way on this one.