Quick Question on Jacking/Supporting Rear for Shock R&R

OK I'm about to tackle front and rear shock replacement on my '04 2wd 5-lug regular cab. I've looked at quite a few videos on you-tube and searched these forums. I think I've wrapped my head around the front end pretty well. Just a quick question on jacking/supporting the rear.

I've always jacked the rear by placing the jack under the axle a couple of inches inboard from the shock. What I'm wondering is where exactly I should place the jackstands before lowering the axle to unload the leaf springs- the chassis box-beam? Also, how can I tell when the leaf spring tension is free (i.e., when have I lowered the axle to the right height to ease removal of the shock)? Can I do one side at a time?

Sorry for the dumb-ass questions. I just want this to go as smoothly as possible. Any tips/tricks would be welcomed.

Thanks

 

Most guys lift at the pumpkin, stand the rear of the truck at the frame so the wheels are off the ground and the axle is fully extended, then work the shocks loose, then the leaf springs. Helps to have extra jack stands to support the axle so you aren't hanging on the brake lines or driveshaft*.

 

If you need the height to work Jack Stands under frame

Jack under the rear supporting that to keep the weight off the shocks .

Unless you really want to wrestle the shocks off under tension