How do I install new shocks?
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 82
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How do I install new shocks?
I am looking to put Bilstein shocks on my 98 4x4 F150 and I was wondering what I needed to do it with and how long it would take. I am really new at this so I need to know how to do it too. If there is a site you know of or anything that would help me, let me know.
Thanks
Thanks
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 1,187
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From: CT
2 bolts per shock, grab some wrenches, have at it..... probably under an hour if all the bolts come out easily. The new shocks you will have to put the bushings into the eyelets before you install them.
Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,066
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From: Chatsworth, CA
Yes you need a jack to take the load off the springs and original shocks. Loosen up the bolts before raising the truck with the jack. Tighten the bolts and torque the new shocks to spec when the truck is off the jack.
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,921
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From: central TX
I've found that they tend to be a little longer than the full suspension travel. On the rear put the tops in first. This way you can (at least on bilsteins) turn the shock body by hand and use a wrench held in place on the upper nut for most of the tightening (much quicker than an 1/8th of a turn at a time with 2 wrenches). Use a little muscle to work it in the lower perch and then use a small prybar on the bottom of the shock to center it for the bolt. No tips on the front as mine is 2wd. Let us know how you like them. I needed 9/16, 17mm, 18mm (sockets and wrenches are handy), and also 1/2 in. IIRC.
allow ~3 hours w/ the right tools to be safe
allow ~3 hours w/ the right tools to be safe
