shock install

so i just my shocks from wheelers, now i need a idea on the install. any tips or tricks? the fronts look like a pita to do,but i think i can get the rears alright. thanks

 

The fronts are easy, just a good spring compressor and it will take 15 minutes a side.

 

They're really not that hard. Go rent a spring compressor from the parts store for the fronts. When putting the front assembly back together make sure to line up the bottom mount on the shock and the 3 top bolts the way it will go into the truck. Look at how it is when you take the current assembly out and match that when putting back together. If they don't line up correctly it won't go back in the truck.

The rears are a piece of cake. Just jack up the back end by the frame until the shocks are fully extended. Take the nuts off that hold the top and bottom mount and slide the shock off. Just stick the new one in its place and tighten the nuts back down.

 

Should I get a alignment when the shocks are installed?

 

That's up to you. Shocks shouldn't change anything with your alignment. If you feel the truck needs one, then go for it. But probably not necessary

 

Hey Don, My buddy Sean and I have a video you could use as a reference. Like others have already mentioned, just rent the spring compressors at a local auto parts store for free. I call bullshit on 15 minutes per side though. Unless you're working at a 4 wheel drive shop and do this all day, everyday, you're not going to swap out the shocks in 30 minutes. If you have an impact gun, it helps speed up the process of compressing the spring. Pulling the strut/coilover out isn't hard, but if it's your first time using a spring compressor and you're doing it the manual way with a 1/2" ratchet, it can take a while along with giving you some sore arms from the effort.

Here's the video:

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It is not necessary. If you're using the same spring, you're not changing anything.

 

Thanks for the vid..