A couple tidbits that might help someone installing rear shocks, especially a first timer.

Pic 1
It can be a little tricky to install the lower shaft that runs thru the control arm and thru the bottom eyes of both shocks. Take the shaft to your bench grinder and make a small bevel on the shoulder of the shaft. This allows it to pass into the shock eyes more easily

Pic 2
Inside the upper eye of each shock is this bushing, oft mentioned. Make sure to look for 'em and transfer them to your new shocks. If you don't install them you'll have one helluva rattle

Pic 3
The upper mounting bolts should be installed from the inboard side to the outboard side....so that the nuts are on the outside of the cage. Reversing this...only possible if the cage is out of the car....will mean that you can't get the bolts out once the cage is installed. Ask me how I know





Cheers
DD

 

Tip #3 is well appreciated Doug, but alas, has come too late for me. Live and learn.

Dave

 

GUILTY on all 3, no wonder I drink BEER.

Thanks Doug, well written.

 

Good stuff.
#3 reminds me of the steering rack bolts. They have to installed so that they can be removed when mounted to the car.

Rob

 

Well, it's not the end of the world, as I discovered. And would probably be a problem only on the rear-position shocks.....as the body-to-rear cage clearance is especially tight.

I slid the bolts out as far as possible and then took a Sawz-All to 'em !

Cheers
DD