Replacing the shocks ths weekend

[MarkS]

Hi guys,

I know this should be simple and straight forward but I thought it would be worthwhile to ask if anyone had any tips or watch-outs.

[Donut]

It should be fairly straight forward.  Just hit the old mounting hardware with some penetrating oil.  Letting the WD or whatever you like sit a couple days wouldn't hurt.

[MarkS]

Sounds like a good idea. Thanks for the info!

[SUX2BU99]

Probably plan on cutting the lower bolts on the rear shocks off. I replaced two rear ends now that I wouldn't doubt had original 30+ year old bolts and they had to be cut off. New grade 8 bolts and washers though look nice and play nice

[MarkS]

Hopefully I won't have to cut the bolts... I'll have to get a cutting rig. The upside is it'll be another reason to get some new tools

Blazin, thanks for moving this to the right area. I'm still getting feel for the site.

[Blazin]

No problem.

[MarkS]

Got the new shocks installed (monroe reflex). Thanks Donut for the WD40 suggestion. It made it a piece of cake removing the old hardware. I know it sounds obvious but sometimes a reminder to those of us who haven't been doing this since high school helps tremendously. I wouldn't have thought in advance to hit the bolts with WD a few days before actually trying to remove them.

This site is a great resource for those of us just learning these trucks!

[Donut]

Most people don't think of hitting the bolts in advance.  IMO, it just gives it (penetrating oil) a little more time to work.
Personally having to deal with 30+ years of rust on my truck, I'll try anything to get the advantage.  I've actually gotten to the point of planning on replacing the bolts on whatever little project I'm doing. (If they can be removed and reused, it's a bonus)  Having a KL Jack/Fastenal about 10 mi from me helps.

I'm glad it all worked out for you.

[SUX2BU99]

Glad it worked out for you. How do you like the shocks? I should replace mine as well.

I hear you, Donut. I'm not convinced about the effectiveness at all with penetrating oil on the bolts I've tried to take off. I've applied it several times, hit them with hammers, let it sit for days and still no peceivable improvement. Ah well, new bolts look good and come off great later on!

[MarkS]

I'll let you know. I'm driving it to work tomorrow. I have high expectations... the set cost about $200.

[MarkS]

Defintely a difference. The stock shocks were gone. The reflex have a larger bore so the ride is a bit stiffer but more controlled. The tires stay planted on the pavment.

I went for a shock that advertised the best ride while still giving some stiffness for hauling and towing. Hard combo to achieve and don't think they have it nailed but I'm satisfied. I wouldn't recommend them for comfort or handling. Monroe has a sensa trac that is supposed to be more comfortable. For handling performance I would recomend bilsteins but they're pricey.

If anyone else has other opinions, let me know. I prefer comfort but still want to haul the boat (3700 lbs).

[dunedigger]

I would be sure you have a tranny cooler.  It never hurts.  I've been puttinf off new shocks on my 87 for a long time.  I have too many trucks and it seems hard to keep them all tip top.  My toy trucks seem to come first.

[MarkS]

good point... I've had so many trucks I forget that this one doesn't have the tow pack.