Shocks are ready for install....Not sure if I am

Just got the new shocks in yesterday and gonna put them on this weekend. I think I got this straight but just to make sure... Anyone use that video floating around? The one without the use of a spring compressor... Is it safe or should I take the spring and coils to pep boys and have them do the both for $40 bucks? Just a little nervous, seems like everyone hates to deal with the springs in any case.

 

I'll never do it any other way (than the video).

Going to do it again this afternoon as I'm changing out to heavier springs.

 

Pretty easy then? Just leave the three bolts on and take the top one off? Drop the lower control arm down and wala? Just worried when I remove the top nut it will come flyin off like a freight train

 

If you're not experinced I'd just take it to a shop. It'll save you some frustration and time.

 

Nothing wrong with having Pep Boys do it. Especially if you are kinda new to wrenching.

 

It just looks too easy to be true haha I mean I'm no mechanic but I like workin on my truck. Just don't want to screw it up and blow the spring into my engine or head. but the video looked so simple

 

Yes it is that easy. But if your nervous have someone else do it.

 

Famous last words.

If you're unsure, err on the side of safety.

 

Yaaaaa you're probably right.

 

Play it safe and take it to a shop especially if the price isnt bad.

 

http://youtu.be/vkVLBOnAifc

follow this video

 

The video looks easier then any other way I've seen so far.

 

yep it is easy just make sure you have two jacks on hand. Also make sure you use a jack that when you twist the handle it comes down slowly.

 

I use this method every time I install 5100s on peoples tacomas. Easiest and safest way IMO. Its WAAAAY safer than using a spring compressor.

 

Just wanted to drop in here to give my .02 cent.

I am no mechanic, but i do like getting my hands dirty, rather than paying someone else to do it. I often doubt the guys that work at the shop, im unsure if they even know wtf they are doing. As you know some of those guys are just learning as they go, so there is a possibilities that he doesnt know any more than you do.

BUT i have NEVER worked on springs, and i'd much prefer not to, because well... they re springs? If it goes wrong, there will be some serious injury.

So i'd bring it to a reputable shop to let a certified person go at it.

 

Just do the damn thing yourself I had a shop do mine and regret what I paid them because they didn't even put the top bushing back on one side!! I had to take it back and wait again.

 

agree the only way you learn.

 

Just follow that video and slowly let the jack down and you will be fine . do not lower the jack without the steering knuckle bolts removed. or you can unbolt the uca from the spindle and use a hammer on the uca to dislodge the bolt

 

Thanks for all the advice guys! Not sure what I am going to try now. Maybe going to stick with the video like suggested. Looks to be the easiest and well the most practical.

 

If you have tools, general automotive knowledge and some common sense then you should be fine following the video.

I have not read of anyone yet getting hurt or failing to complete the job after following the video.

This thread has over 120 posts and lots of success stories.

Edit: BTW, I made the video and if you run into problems or have questions just send me a PM.