Front shocks replacement

EZLiberty · **Joined:** Sat Aug 08, 2009 9:46 pm **Posts:** 84

Can it be done with regular tools? I was about to pull them to install my new bilstein shocks but I only did the rear ones so far, someone told Me I need a spring compressor and special tools :?:

I work a lot on bigger trucks, I'm not afraid of a job like this but since I don't have said spring compressor I delayed the replacement until someone who has done it clarifies this for Me.

Thanks in advance.

tommudd · **Posted:** Sun Feb 19, 2012 7:11 pm

Yes you either need to run them to a shop and have them compressed or rent a compressor
Only replacing the shocks? Not the springs as well???

All3Sports · **Posted:** Sun Feb 19, 2012 7:36 pm

Spring compressor needed, might as well change out the springs at the same time, some procedure just newer springs.

EZLiberty · **Joined:** Sat Aug 08, 2009 9:46 pm **Posts:** 84

Thanks fellows. I didn't know the springs need replacing as well (120k miles) but if so then I guess I'll get a pair of them and change them when I do the shocks. I'll get a manual for this jeep in the next few days to learn exactly what it involves and rent a spring compressor as well.

tommudd · **Posted:** Sun Feb 19, 2012 9:59 pm

Not hard to R&R the springs/shocks at all
There should be several run downs on here or I'll give you my number.
If you don't want any lift Tahoe from Ohio here just installed a pair of CRD stock springs on the front of his today, lots better than the stock ones
and at 120,000 miles bet you are sitting low by now

EZLiberty · **Joined:** Sat Aug 08, 2009 9:46 pm **Posts:** 84

I did use the search engine on this forum but it takes a little getting used to for Me, I was a bit lost with out Your answers.
I found two different set at rock auto, I get My parts there, could someone point Me to the right one.
Well I guess I don't know how to attach a picture here, one is a two piece spring compressor and the other has two arms controlled by one long threaded bolt, does it matter which one I use?

Thanks.

All3Sports · **Posted:** Sun Feb 19, 2012 10:38 pm

MacPherson spring compressor is the one I used.

Here's a pic:

As far as the procedure goes for the front, you're looking at a couple hours without air tools on the springs alone. Try finding a buddy with an impact wrench, it'll be 1000x easier with one.

Here's a good write up on the procedure for getting to the strut assembly, it's a little bit different but pretty straight forward, 4 bolts under the battery tray on the drivers side and 4 under the air box on the passengers.

http://www.jeepkj.com/forum/f202/how-pu ... ift-43781/

EZLiberty · **Joined:** Sat Aug 08, 2009 9:46 pm **Posts:** 84

Thanks for the link I'll get on reading now. I got plenty of tools specially air tools, thanks again for the good advise it will a lot easier knowing what to expect.

tommudd · **Posted:** Mon Feb 20, 2012 12:46 am

Just be careful with the spring compressors
I hate them and refuse to use them
Of course I value my life :wink:

EZLiberty · **Joined:** Sat Aug 08, 2009 9:46 pm **Posts:** 84

Well I finally got time to do the front shocks and springs, first one (driver) took Me 3 hours (I had to go and buy a different spring compressor) and the 2nd (pass) maybe 45 minutes.

Thanks to everyone for the good advise and tips.

Front shocks replacement

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