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Installed new shocks today..

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Old May 8, 2018 | 05:39 PM
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Default Installed new shocks today..

Finally got around to installing c6z06 shocks on my c5 (had some time at work to get it done)

2002 z51 with 75k miles. The last fun run I was on, I did not like the way the car handled in the corners It was not as stable during high speed cornering.

I read a few write ups on here about the install, and decided to order a set from RA.

I started with the rear shocks, since I heard they were easier to install.
The rears were much easier to install than the fronts. Remove the 2 bolts on the upper mount and the large bolt on the lower mount, compress the shock and remove it.. reverse the procedure to install the new ones..

I struggled with my 1st front shock, until I decided to unbolt the upper control arm from the car.
After I unbolted the upper control arm, the front shock removal and install was easier.
Two bolts and nuts on the lower shock mount. 1 nut for the upper shock mount.



I also balanced all 4 tires and did my oil change. I plan to check the alignment after I put a few miles on it..

Next fix on the list is to solder the resistors on the ac control panel...


Old vs new rear shock
New rear shock installed
Old vs new front shock
New front shock installed

Last edited by tommie; May 8, 2018 at 05:56 PM.
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Old May 8, 2018 | 05:44 PM
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I have an appointment to get mine installed (along with C6 Z51 sway bars) on Monday
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Old May 8, 2018 | 06:09 PM
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I did the same set-up last year, and have been pretty happy with them!
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Old May 8, 2018 | 08:09 PM
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Did you take it for a drive yet what do you think ?
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Old May 8, 2018 | 09:57 PM
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Originally Posted by Jurgen1
Did you take it for a drive yet what do you think ?
Not long enough of a drive yet....
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Old May 8, 2018 | 10:01 PM
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nice
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Old May 8, 2018 | 10:15 PM
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Good mod and for a DIY project.
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Old May 9, 2018 | 10:42 AM
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Originally Posted by tommie

Finally got around to installing c6z06 shocks on my c5 (had some time at work to get it done)
How was it getting the top nut off on the fronts? I bought the Lisle tool - paid extra $$ for express shipping - and the squared-off end just broke off. I wound up having to cut them off on both sides
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Old May 9, 2018 | 10:59 AM
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Originally Posted by jjc508520
How was it getting the top nut off on the fronts? I bought the Lisle tool - paid extra $$ for express shipping - and the squared-off end just broke off. I wound up having to cut them off on both sides
Grab the top with vice grips. Try the needle nosed type first. Once the wrench hits the frame, you just ignore it and concentrate on the nut. Also, spray them down with PB Blaster. They aren't too bad.
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Old May 9, 2018 | 11:27 AM
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Had mine done a few weeks ago too. Seems to ride so much better now. I did the sway bars and end links last fall, and lowered on stock bolts. Before the shock upgrade, I wasn't thrilled with the ride after lowering. Now...... LOVE it!
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Old May 9, 2018 | 11:32 AM
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Originally Posted by jjc508520
How was it getting the top nut off on the fronts? I bought the Lisle tool - paid extra $$ for express shipping - and the squared-off end just broke off. I wound up having to cut them off on both sides

I used vise grips on the old shocks, to hold the top of the shock while spinning the nut.

I used a socket for shock absorbers when i put the new shocks on, to hold the shock while i tightened the nut on top.

I have worked on other cars where i had trouble removing the top nut before...
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