OK, so I have the shocks but have never installed shocks before. I'm not a mechanic but have done a few things like replace the fuel pump, vacuum pump, turbo downpipe install, etc. Are there any tips or tricks I should be aware of before I try to change out the OEM shocks? I see the Bilstein shocks have a nylon band around them (wrapped from end to end) to I guess keep them from expanding to much? Why is that? Is that something I need to worry about? Thanks for any help.
Re: Question about replacing shocks with Bilsteins
The nylon band is for shipping and to ease installation. it is a reall bear to compress a new shock and try to get it lined up and stay compressed while trying to align the mounting bolt all at the same time.
Re: Question about replacing shocks with Bilsteins
Real men cut the band before installing the shock [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]
Cary
__________________
95 f250 4x4 xlt Excab Lb. white, BTS Trans, 4.10ls, Dana 60, ORU RS kit DR 4"front 5" reas springs!, Bilsteins, Centerline 18x9", 37" Toyo MT's,H2e, Tapercore IC,3" Billet intakes, Tymar 4" exhaust,intake and HX mod,Beans 2's, Stealth and Fuel system and DI studs, JS's IDM mod, TW 4 pos chip,TSM Rear Disks, 198k miles.
2004 EB 4x4 6.0 X born 05/18/04
white, LS,premier group, tow package, dvd. centerline 18x9" w/ 35" Toyo MT's, Edge 4.5" Lift, V's & custom B codes 37k miles 3rd turbo 6 5150 Specialy valved Bilsteins!
1976 EB Exploration daily driver
1971 EB Hard Core Crawler
2006 Yamaha FJR1300
2005 Suzuki King Quad
Re: Question about replacing shocks with Bilsteins
[ QUOTE ]
Real men cut the band before installing the shock [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]
Cary
[/ QUOTE ]
So do little kids playing around while 'helping' their dad. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif[/img]
Dad promptly sends his little 'helper' inside to fix a lemonade, knowing that will take until just when the job is done.
Said 'helper' was about 6 at the time.
Re: Question about replacing shocks with Bilsteins
The band is nothing to worry about, it's there to hold the shock compressed to make it smaller for shipping. Install the top first, but don't tighten it all the way, cut the retainer, and try to slip the bottom on as the shock is extending... not big deal if you miss, but it does take some effort too compress the shock again.
Re: Question about replacing shocks with Bilsteins
The only thing I would add is use anti sieze when you put it back together. When I did the shocks on my '94, I would up having to take a grinder to the rear passenger side because it just wouldnt come loose. Before it was all said and done, I wound up with the top of the shock jammed into the bottom of the bed, and the bottom stuck on a piece of the bolt. Had to slice the shock open (very, very carefully) with a hacksaw to release the pressure so I could get it out. Dont want to have to do that again...
'94 2WD F-250 PSD 5 speed. 302,000 miles, DIY open intake, 5" single stack, Banks pyro and boost gauge, Grover air horns, DynaMat. Still on the original CPS!
AutoForums.com is the premier network of enthusiast-owned
enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
We operate more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share
experiences and opinions as a community.
Linear Mode
