I'm looking at replacing the upper spring seat (AKA shock tower) on the passenger side of my '93 F-150 2WD (4.9l straight six and E4OD, if that makes a difference). Initially I was convinced it was going to be a huge job, and likely more than I wanted to get into, but looking at it further, I'm now thinking it might not be so bad.

The way I see it, I'll need to jack up and support the truck by the frame, then jack under the axle. I should probably get a coil spring compresser, so I can keep the spring close to it's normal length and make for easier installation. From there, I think I'll need to unbolt the shock and spring retainer clip from the upper spring seat. Once those are off, lower the axle, and I should now have room to grind off the rivets. Bolt up the new one, do the reverse, and I should be set. Of course I'll need to deal with the brake line, but that's no big deal.

So, am I missing anything here? Anyone out there done this who can give me some words of wisdom?

Thanks!
Andrew

 

I have done this and I removed the spring also. It gave me alot more room. Drilled the rivets out and replaced with grade 8 bolts. The brake line was another issue. There is a special clip that holds the fitting in the tower bracket. Mine was rusted beyond salvage. Had to replace that and I replaced the rubber line to the caliper. The clip was a dealer only part and I had to buy four(even though there are only two on my truck). You might do a search here about removing the spring, some have problems with it. Mine came off pretty easily. Good luck. Let us know if you need any more help.

 

how do you remove the brake line? does brake fluid have to be lost?