Installing Mag-Hytec and Bilsteins

[joe308]

I will be installing a double deep Mag-Hytec trans pan, Isspro trans temp gauge, Mag-Hytec rear diff cover and Bilsteins all around on my 03 2500 Supercab CTD 4x4. Aside from the front shocks it looks pretty easy but I wanted to know if there are any problems others have had doing these upgrades. Also, since I am not purging the entire system, would it be safest to stay with the stock fluids? Thanks.

 

[mberry]

Since you are already putting a new pan in, why not take the time and change the fluids while you're in there? If it's never been changed, even if you only have 15K miles on it, it's closing in on 5 years with that fluid. I am making an assumption yes, but you do say "stay with the stock fluids". I do not think the stock fluid is bad, but I do think it needs to be changed at regular intervals regardless of miles. I vote for Amsoil in the transmission and Amsoil or Royal Purple in the diff(s).

Other than that, no there should not be any issues with anything you are doing.

 

[JValdez]

I did the same upgrade on the transmission pan. If you get it through Geno's it comes with a filter. I went with Amsoil fluid and it took close to 11 quarts to fill her up. Nice upgrade though. If you follow Hytecs recommended torques you'll have no problems.

 

[joe308]

I would not reuse the fluid even if it were new - too easy for some gunk to get into it. Mine is due for a change since it has 41k on it. Was going to use the stock fluid, since I'm not sure if I can get all the old fluid out and don't want to mix 2 types. How hard are the front shocks to change - I have an air wratchet?

 

[mberry]

I wasn't suggesting you re-use the old fluid, just changing from stock to something else/better. Mixing the 2 will not hurt anything, but if it were me, I would change ALL the transmission fluid out. I can't help with the front shocks, but when I changed them on my '02 it was a pain. Good luck.

 

[SBeretz]

Front shocks are pretty easy, just undo the shock towers from the top and take the bottom bolt out and they will pull right out through the top. Pretty easy.

 

[joe308]

Ok, thanks for the info!

 

[Wayne M.]

I just installed the yellow front shocks and the resulting ride was excellent. The job is pretty easy. The main concern I had was watching the + battery post while working in that area. I used a rag to cover the batteries, and then a fender cover. Even with all the precaution I managed to make a spark.

I think it's important to support the truck by the frame and keep the jack under the axle so it can be dropped to allow reassembly. You cannot compress these shocks!

I used my 1/2" electric impact gun with a deep socket and universal to get the top nut off. Then I sat on a milk crate, and with a 3/8 drive flex ratchet I removed the nuts holding the top mount and lifted that out seperately. It helps to tug out the plastic wheel liner for room. Then I removed the bottom bolt and, from up top, I pulled the shock right out. The process is the same for both sides and are equal in obstructions. I did an oil change at the same time, and before that I sprayed everything with penetrating fluid, especially the lower bolt. There is a captured nut on the inside and I think it would be a bad thing if that nut spun. I used anti seize compound on the lower bolt on reassembly.