Shocks and steering

[ScottLewis]

At 123K+ miles on my '06 Laramie 4X4, I'm about to replace my shocks with Bilsteins and update my steering to the "T" type.. I hope to get the work done next weekend.
I do have a question about removing the shocks.
Do I need to remove batteries, etc to get them out from the top and install the new ones? The factory manual doesn't clearly indicate.

 

[petersonj]

Do I need to remove batteries, etc to get them out from the top and install the new ones?

I can't for sure say with your 2006 truck, but the batteries do not need to be removed on a 2003 or 2004 truck.

- John

 

[cerberusiam]

No, remove the shock tower tops first then the shock will come up past everything. Easiest way to do it is remove the fender liner to access the shock tower.

 

[ScottLewis]

I got most of the shocks done today, Will finish them up tomorrow AM. I concluded that although the batteries could be left in place, I would have to struggle around them when getting the towers off. Knowing how things often go for me, I would probably send sparks flying. So I pulled them out. I did remove the fender liner to get at the towers more easily. The first one took a few hours because I lacked the proper size sockets. The nut on the shock stem I removed with a 3/4" 6 point but the lower bolt was tougher. Anyway, thanks for the suggestions.

 

[ScottLewis]

Finished up the '08 tie-rod upgrade last weekend with the help of my grandson ( who is a diesel mechanic and did most of the work). Everything with the exception of removing the pitman arm went smoothly. We eventually got the arm off and everything went together without a hitch. Just over 2 hours for the steering change. I will have the wheels aligned today. Just in time since we head for TN on Friday or Saturday to visit family.