2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Shock install???

[BarryG]

Well the expansion joint boogie has gotten to the point that I am now driving a 7000lb mixmaster so I ordered some new shocks (bilsteins). Wondering if there is anything I need to know to watch for during the install. The rears look to be relatively straightforward, are they? Now the fronts look a bit more tricky due to the fact that they sit inside the spring. What is the best method for getting the old out and the new in? Have changed many shocks over the years but never on this vehicle. Any tips would be appreciated. TIA

 

[vssman]

It's been awhile so bear with me. (For the fronts) I think I had to remove the top shock tower mount and everything came out the top. You need to really tighten the bottom bolt down or it may cause a clunk. I believe you need somekind of sleeve in the top bushings or they won't last. Check the "Bilstein" post on this forum.

 

[TPCDrafting]

I did mine about 18 months ago. Yeah, make sure the upper bushings have a steel cylindrical shaped sleeve type thing in them. Tighten the nut down on to it. I took the upper nut off first, then the upper shock tower and pulled it out. The lower mounts were a tight squeeze. I ended up filing the paint of the edges of the new shock bolt sleeve. I dabbed a little grease on there too to make it an easier fit. Had to use a block of wood and mallet to beat them into place (carefully). The lower bolt nuts have a "wing" on them so you don't need to put a wrench on them while turning out the bolt. Somebody at DC was thinkin' when they did this. The rears on mine took less than an hour, some have had to disconnect part of the sway bar, but I didn't for some reason. I find it easier to leave the packing strap on the shock till you have one end in place.