Replacing shock towers
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2007
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Replacing shock towers
So I was going to wait until later this summer to do it, but the drivers side finally broke through so I had to order some up. I will of course be replacing both of them.
I've read conflicting stories about removing the spring via the large nut on the bottom. Problem is, I dont think I will be able to remove that nut. I was looking at these though, and why cant I leave it in and just pull it out of the way, take a torch and blow the rivets out, punch them out with an air hammer, and put the new one in?
Also, for those that have done it, how long should I expect it to take to do?
I've read conflicting stories about removing the spring via the large nut on the bottom. Problem is, I dont think I will be able to remove that nut. I was looking at these though, and why cant I leave it in and just pull it out of the way, take a torch and blow the rivets out, punch them out with an air hammer, and put the new one in?
Also, for those that have done it, how long should I expect it to take to do?
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2013
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You don't need to remove the big lower nut. Put a jack under the axle beam, unbolt the shocks, remove the upper spring retainer, and lower the axle beam down until all spring tension is relieved and the spring is out of the bucket/tower. You may need to remove the radius arm nut to get the axle beam to droop down enough. Now's the time to replace the radius arm bushings if they need to be replaced. Replace the bucket, jack the axle beam back up while making sure the radius arm goes back in the hole, reinstall upper spring retainer, reinstall radius arm nut, reinstall shocks, and you're done.
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Ok perfect. It's a 4 wheel drive if that makes a difference too.
As for the radius arm bushings, those were replaced by the previous owner along with the metal mount they mount in. So at least I won't have to battle with those, they should come apart easily if need be.
As for the radius arm bushings, those were replaced by the previous owner along with the metal mount they mount in. So at least I won't have to battle with those, they should come apart easily if need be.
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