If you’re searching for “how to install front shocks on a Chevy truck,” chances are you’re experiencing issues like losing control while turning or braking. You want to restore stability and comfort while driving by installing new, high-quality shocks for your Chevy truck – and you want to do it yourself.
You’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through the process of replacing and installing front shocks on your Chevy truck, step by step. Let’s get started and help you get your truck back in top shape!
How to install front shocks on a chevy truck
Table of Contents
To install new front shocks on your Chevy truck, the first step is to remove the old shocks.
Step 1: Lift the Truck
Start by lifting the truck with a jack. Make sure to raise the front tire 6 to 8 inches above the ground.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel
Take off the wheel by first removing the lug nut covers. Then, use a wrench to remove all of the lug nuts. After that, carefully take off the tire, holding it with both hands.
Step 3: Loosen the Shock Bolts
You’ll see two bolts holding the shock absorber in place – one at the top and one at the bottom. Begin by loosening the upper bolt. Use locking pliers and a 15mm ratchet to free up the bolt. Move the ratchet back and forth until the nut is loose, and then remove it with your hands.
Next, move to the bottom bolt. Use a 21mm wrench to remove the nuts securing the bottom of the shock. Once both bolts are removed, take out the old shock absorber.
Step 4: Prepare the New Shocks
Before installing the new shocks, compress them 4-5 times to get them into the correct shape. Wait 1-2 minutes for the shocks to return to their normal position.
Step 5: Install the New Shocks
Start by inserting a washer into the bushing. Place it on the frame, then line up the bottom of the shock with the mount. Insert the bolt from the inside out and start the nut. After the bolt is in place, add the rubber bushing and washer on top.
Step 6: Raise the Suspension
Now, use a jack to raise the suspension. Position the floor jack safely under the control arm and lift the suspension high enough to allow the shock’s threads to come through.
Step 7: Tighten the Top Nut
Once the threads appear, use a 14mm wrench to tighten the nut. If the shock starts spinning, use locking pliers to hold the top in place, and then use an adjustable wrench to compress it. Don’t over-tighten; just compress it enough to secure the shock.
Step 8: Tighten the Bottom Nut
With pressure still on the control arm, tighten the bottom bolt to a torque of 18.4 pounds.
Step 9: Reinstall the Wheel
Lower the jack and reinstall the wheel. Tighten the lug nuts, and finish by putting the lug nut covers back in place.
Now your new front shocks are installed, and your Chevy truck should have improved control and stability!
Read more about – How to replace shock absorber
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, you probably now have a good understanding of how to install front shocks on your Chevy truck. However, if you’re still unsure about any of the steps or need more clarity, feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll be happy to help. You can also watch the YouTube video linked above for a more detailed, step-by-step guide on how to remove and install front shocks on a Chevy truck easily.
By following these steps, you can improve your truck’s performance and save money by doing the work yourself.
Do you need to jack up truck to change front shocks?
Yes you need to jack up the truck to change the front shocks.
Can you replace front shocks yourself?
Yes you can replace front shocks by yourselves because in this modern day you can type the word to google how to install front shocks on a Chevy Truck and read 1-2 article to get proper idea about it and then you can do the task by yourselves very easily.
Which way should a shock be mounted?
Your rear shock absorbers should be mounted as far outboard as possible as well, and in as close to perpendicular to the travel of the suspension.
