Additional tip for shock replacement
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03-31-2006, 11:17 PM
Join Date: Mar 2006
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Additional tip for shock replacement
Just finished the install of a full set of Bilstein shocks on my 1998 F-150 4x4 5.4 L. This article was a great reference.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...Absorbers.html
I wanted to add one observation/tip. Michael talks about having to use a jack to compress the rear shocks after he had cut the green band holding them compressed. On both of mine I carefully cut the green band and they did not extend until I tapped them with a rubber mallot. Handle them as gingerly as possible and they should stay compressed. Just place the washer and bumper on the shock and put it in place. Put the bottom mount bolt in. All the while holding the shock so that when it does extend it will enter the upper mounting hole (just wiggling it into the bottom mount may "trigger" the extension so be ready). When your ready give the lower portion of the shock a couple of taps and it should extend.
Hope this helps,
Tim
https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...Absorbers.html
I wanted to add one observation/tip. Michael talks about having to use a jack to compress the rear shocks after he had cut the green band holding them compressed. On both of mine I carefully cut the green band and they did not extend until I tapped them with a rubber mallot. Handle them as gingerly as possible and they should stay compressed. Just place the washer and bumper on the shock and put it in place. Put the bottom mount bolt in. All the while holding the shock so that when it does extend it will enter the upper mounting hole (just wiggling it into the bottom mount may "trigger" the extension so be ready). When your ready give the lower portion of the shock a couple of taps and it should extend.
Hope this helps,
Tim
