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 | Point of No Return
The point of no return is determined by your ability to remove the fasteners
that hold the old shock absorber units. You may want to review the Freeing
Stubborn Fasteners DIY article in the archives, and apply the methods outlined
there.
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| Tools Required
Basic hand tools are needed for this job:
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Socket wrenches (metric or SAE, depending upon your vehicle)
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Combination wrenches (metric or SAE, depending upon your vehicle)
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Large, flat-bladed screwdriver
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Vise grips (optional, depending upon the type of shock absorber)
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Rust penetrant
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Vehicle jack and jack stands
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| Materials
You can obtain good replacement shock absorbers from your local parts store or
your vehicle's dealership. Check the hardware that is included with the shock,
since you may need to buy an additional hardware kit to replace the original
rusted or broken fasteners.
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| The Job
Locate your vehicle in a well-lighted level area, either inside or outside.
Give yourself plenty of access around each wheel.
1. Jack the car up until one wheel is clear of the ground and support
the vehicle with a jack stand. Follow all appropriate safety precautions.
Remove the wheel/tire.
2. Once the wheel is removed, locate the lower attachment bolts and
nuts of the shock absorber, and remove them. If necessary, use the rust
penetrant.
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| 3. If the suspension arms drop when the lower bolt is removed, or if
you can't push the bolt out once the nut is removed, you may have to use the
jack to take the load off of the lower suspension arm. To do this, you will
need to locate your jack under the lower point where the shock absorber
attaches to the suspension arm (or the axle). Make sure that the jack is
lifting on a solid point on the lower suspension arm or axle. Raise the jack
just enough to take the load off the shock or to the point where the shock
absorber bolt can be removed.
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