Replacing front shocks.

[MXSG]

I'm replacing my front shocks this weekend and I'm wondering if this will be a straightforward procedure.

I've replaced shocks before (my old '92 Blazer) and it was hassle free and didn't take long at all.

Anything I should know about the Marauder before proceeding?



-Max

[FordNut]

It is a coilover shock.

[BirchMarauder]

well I took my car to Midas to get my front shocks replaced....they have all the tools, lift, etc etc and the 1 guy (best of the two mechanics) that was working on it took atleast an hour and half each side. I sat there with a window view to the shop and never took my eyes off him.

[fastblackmerc]

Our "shocks" are actually like a McPherson strut as you will need a spring compressor to disassemble. Unless you've done it before I'd let someone else do it. Springs store alot on energy and have a tendency to injure body parts when they fly around......

[MXSG]

So... now I need to find something else to do this weekend, because I won't be replacing shocks. :D

Thanks for the info, I'll take the time to find a good shop and have them do it.

[2,4shofast]

Its really not that difficult of a job if you have the right tools, a impact gun, breaker bar and spring compresser are almost a must. I did both of mine in about 2 hours in my garage, I would suggest Monroe Severe Service shocks.

[BAD MERC]

I totally agree - I did mine with air tools and a floor-mounted spring compressor in about three hours. That was to cut the coils. Just be careful of the ABS wiring and make sure to hang the caliper with a ziptie or equivalent. It really is not a difficult job. It is a satisfying DIY project.

[bigmerc2003]

Do you need to drop the lower control arm to get them out? I thought i read it somewhere but it seems like a design flaw to have to do that. I am at 65k and might be replacing the fronts and cutting the springs to get the lower stance

[Jeremy]

I didn't drop the lower. I did have to pry it down a bit though to wiggle them out. I recently had to replace lower ball joints, uppers, springs, shocks, a wheel hub.. mm.. I think that was it.. haha

I rented/loaned the tools from O Reilly Auto Parts.. take em back within 48 hours and get your money back..

But yeah.. DEFINATELY need an impact. It would probably take you all weekend to crank a spring compressor down by hand..

[BigCars4Ever]

It's very dangerous to use an impact wrench on a spring compressor. Even the instructions warn not to do it but if you do lube the treads up to keep from heating up the spring compressor. I wrenched mine with a socket and it didn't take long at all.

[lucenti]

So I guess the 18 Piece socket set i bought is out !