Shock Replacement

[a1991owner]

I was wondering if there are any special measures needed to do shock replacement? I would rather do the work myself seeing as how the shocks are right out in the open.

 

[Byrd91]

Nope, shocks are real easy to replace. A socketset is all you should need. Maybe some PB Blaster or liquid wrench.

 

[bradmatejo]

A socket set definitely. But it's also helpful to have some box end wrenches and a jack. Box end wrenches for the nut, in case your socket isn't deep enough when the bolt comes through. And jack up the frame (not the axle or wheel) to extend the suspension. Makes it really easy to get the old shock out and the new one in.

 

[EliteConcept]

PRIOR TO DOING THIS SPRAY SOME LIQUID WRENCH ON THE BOLTS!

i say that in all caps because if you don't you are risking busting the mounts. i'd drench the bolts a day before you do it, maybe even soak them with liquid wrench 2 days in a row

 

[Rhett]

One trick for changing the rear socks is to remove the spare tire, and this allows you more room to get in there and work. And as was said, <yell> USE SOME PB BLASTER ON THOSE BOLTS!!! </yell> heheh

 

[a1991owner]

Sweet , this sounds like I will be saving myself about $120 in labor. Anyone by chance find a good company to get shocks from? I'd like to go with Edlebrock, Rancho, or someone well known. I want good quality and some ride adjusting capabilities.

 

[TheJMan]

I've got Monroe Reflex on my 1993 and while they don't adjust, they are a very high-quality shock for the price.

 

[rfuree11]

i need to change my set and want to put a set of old man emus on (ive heard good things about them) and i know they make a set for the X, i was just wondering if there was anyplace i could buy them online at a good price.
and PBlaster is the greatest stuff ever made!!

 

[chadb]

shocks

I believe most shocks are made by monroe or gabriel anyways. I would choose shocks that are spec'ed to do what you want. I don't think brand matters. As far as doing shocks your self I'd say go for it. Air wrench always helps to. Guess I'd have to ask why your replacing yours? are they leaking or do you have some serious body roll/bounce when hitting bumps?

 

[zavetsky]

Shocking details

When the lower front shock mount bolt(s) break (and with a 91 they most likely will if you live anywhere where salt is used on the roads, even with soaking with PB Blaster...ask me how I know), dont panic like I did and run it to the dealer.

Turns out this is VERY common, and there is a replacement bolt kit at NAP for like $15.00.

You grind the broken stub flat to the control arm and then drill it out, replacing it with the new bolt.

If you have the tools you can do it.

 

[a1991owner]

Re: shocks

Originally posted by chadb
I believe most shocks are made by monroe or gabriel anyways. I would choose shocks that are spec'ed to do what you want. I don't think brand matters. As far as doing shocks your self I'd say go for it. Air wrench always helps to. Guess I'd have to ask why your replacing yours? are they leaking or do you have some serious body roll/bounce when hitting bumps?

Well Let's just say that when I bought the truck it was a little lop-sided After having it for almost a year the ride is really bad (Not the typical ride of X's). I think I'm going to spend a little extra money and get my paws on some Rancho5000's. THey're a little more expensive than the Monroe's, but they will meet my needs (since I will be using the truck for off-road once I get everything fixed up).

 

[jagarundi]

Re: shocks

Originally posted by chadb
I believe most shocks are made by monroe or gabriel anyways. I would choose shocks that are spec'ed to do what you want. I don't think brand matters. As far as doing shocks your self I'd say go for it. Air wrench always helps to. Guess I'd have to ask why your replacing yours? are they leaking or do you have some serious body roll/bounce when hitting bumps?

I just replaced the front shocks on my 98 XLT with some Monroes and the ride was better right away. Before that, I would damn near get thrown out of the truck when I hit a bump. I still have to get rear shocks to complete the job.