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Shock towers

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Old Nov 4, 2011 | 05:28 PM
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Default Shock towers

Not near my car now and contemplating shock replacement.

Not done this for a while, so bear with me.

Front does not seem to be hard. Shock towers accessible from underhood.

Where are the shock towers in the rear? Can I get to them, with wheel removed or are the shock towers inside and carpet, etc. needs to come out.

This isn't a hard job, is it? I will do it unless it is rather straightforward. Otherwise, will pay to have it done.
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Old Nov 4, 2011 | 05:44 PM
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It has been years since I did my rears but I don't recall it being difficult at all. Here is a pic of my rear just to give some perspective. I'm getting ready to replace all of my shocks and going with Bilstein sport shocks from Van Steel.

Jim




Last edited by Frankenvette; Nov 4, 2011 at 05:47 PM.
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Old Nov 4, 2011 | 06:22 PM
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Yes Sir; The pictures show, both the lower Nuts & the top bolts. The bolts & nuts are just made for the Shock, make sure you put the lock washer back on the top & the lock washer & the lower shock washer, on the lower. Very easy job, & Yes you need to take the tire off. Be safe, use jack stands. Make sure you use the proper torque on bolts. Have a safe day. Gene/
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Old Nov 4, 2011 | 09:57 PM
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I changed out my originals to Bilstein Sports on my 82. The rears are easier than the fronts IMHO. If you're handy with a wrench, you can do this yourself.
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Old Nov 5, 2011 | 04:13 PM
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Put penetrating oil on the top mounts of the front shocks. You will have to keep the shaft from moving while you loosen the nuts. A good auto parts shop will be able to sell you a tool to fit the top of the shock stud. If they are not frozen, it's a 15 minute job. If they are rusted, it will be a bear to loosen them.
For the rears, you will have to jack it up and remove the wheels first. Remember, the rear shocks act as travel stops for the rear suspension. Take some slack up by (carefully!) putting a floor jack under the outer spring bolt, and raise it maybe an inch when you remove and replace the shock. Do one side at a time.
Good luck.
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