How to Replace Front End Shocks

In an effort to save money on vehicle repairs, more vehicle owners are choosing to do some of the repairs at home. If you have a little bit of mechanical ability and knowledge, and the necessary tools, you might wish to replace your own front end shocks.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Safety glasses
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Ratchet
• Ratchet extension
• Sockets
• Socket wrench
• Flathead screwdriver

1. Remove the retaining nuts, washers and rubber mounts from the top of the shock.

2. Raise the front of the vehicle and support it with safety stands.

3. Take off lower shock retaining bolts and slide the shocks out of lower A frame. Discard all items.

4. Install new lower washers and rubber mounts. Slide shocks through the lower A frames, making sure that the top shaft of the shocks goes through the hole in the upper frame. Tighten the lower shock bolts.

5. Lower the vehicle and install the remaining rubber mounts, washer and nuts. Tighten to manufacturer specifications.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are having trouble getting the shock out of the lower A frame, you may wish to remove the wheel and tire for easier access.
• On some vehicles, it might be easier to break the shock top retaining nut off rather then to remove it with a wrench.
• It is always a good idea to protect you eyes with safety glasses when working on your vehicle.
• Be sure to always use jack safety stands when you have the vehicle off of the ground.