This thread is a how to for changing your front shocks on 4x4's.
Tools Needed:

• 18mm socket and ratchet
• 18mm closed end wrench
• Zip ties (preferably long ones)
• WD-40 or other penetrating oil
• Jack setup

Removal-

Step 1: Jack up auto and place safety blocks or such to prevent auto from falling.
Step 2: Removal wheel
Step 3: Spray WD-40 or other penetrating oil on the nut side of the two shock mounts
Step 4: Place closed end wrench on nutof lower shock mount, and place ratchet onbolt and then losen and remove bolt

Step 5: Place closed end wrench on nutofupper shock mount, and place ratchet onbolt and then losen and remove bolt

Step 6: Pull shock out of mounts and compress shock, if shock doesnt stay compressed long enough to pull down and out go to step 7
Step 7(optional): Place multiple zip ties together and feed through both shock mounting eyes, and then compress and tighten zip ties and remove shock

Installation-

Step1: Compress new shock and place into shock mounts
Step 2: Place bolt through upper mount and add nut
Step 3: Place bolt through lower mount and add nut
Step 4: Tightenboth bolts to 54 ft. lbs.
Step 5: Reinstall wheel
Step 6: Remove safety blocks and lower auto

 

Looks good, but I think we might want to combine this with a replacing rear shocks how to as well. Also the technique should be about the same front and rear on a 2wd, the 2wd just wont have the cv axles and massive hub bearing in the way. Othwerwise it looks good.

 

Doesnt the 2wd have a single bolt come out of the top of the shock rather than the eye that a bolt goes through? I don't have a 2wd so im not familure with that. I can add the rears it just has a few more steps like supporting the axle and bashing your hand against the spare tire.

 

Any threads or tips on replacing the rear shocks? Doesn't look too bad, just need a way to compress the shocks with cheap zip ties.

Steve

 

well you need to support axle so it doesnt over extend brake lines. Depending on the spare you have it might be easier if you remove the spare first since the two upper bolts on each shock are up next to it.

 

this real soo, ill post pics so you have more reference photos

 

I like step one....lol I'm GUILTY your honor!!!

 

Admins - can someone please make this thread a sticky? It's a pretty helpful how-to. Thanks.

 

THanks a lot guys, this is exactly what i've been looking for. I'm going to go ahead and give it a try.

 

*Moving to Tech Article (DIY) - Article Submission/Discussion* Where it belongs.

I will copy the initial post into the Tech Article (DIY) section as well.