My 1999 cherokee sport standard needs new shocks. Getting to them and replacing them isn't hard. Though, I heard somewhere that you need to prime the shock before installing. Can anyone run through the steps of priming the shock? Or, any other tips and advice about switching shocks?

 

hey man not that this helps your thread but if you are looking for shocks i have 4 stock ones that are like 4 months old, if you want all 4 for $15 let me know

 

When you purchase new shocks(aftermarket or OE),they will come fully compressed with a strap holding them.It is recomended to purge any air from by removing the strap and fully extending and compressing them 2 to 3 times.Hopefully this answers your question.Good luck

 

A tip for you from my experience..

WD40 or spray some stuff onto the bolts before you try to remove them.

I broke a bolt on either side of the Jeep at the top shock mount, and broke the big bolt on the bottom driver side, so now it has a carriage bolt in it.

Just a little heads up, I sprayed them with some lubricant and waited, but they still broke.

 

Is there any turn of the shock, like turning it upside down or anything? Or, should it be kept upright at all times?

 

not sure on the priming of the shock.....thats a new one to me and sounds like a good bit of info, as for changing them the front is easy, just have some pb blast or something on hand, as for the rear EXPECT all 4 top mount bolts to shear off (may not happen i suppose but just expect it anyways lol).....its really common especially if you live in a place with snow and salt.

I would do a search about breaking rear shock bolts on here before changing.

There are pretty easy ways to change the bolts out with an air hammer or punch and chisel if this happens.

Or the other solution i read was people cutting holes in the hatch to access them (not recommended, do it the other way)

 

In most cases,the shocks will be mounted rod end up.The exceptions to this rule are Rubicon Express Monotubes,and some others that require reverse or upside down mounting.And x2 on soaking everthing good with PB Blaster or equivilant.

 

Be prepared to drill the broken bolts. All 4 of mine broke. Dilled and re-tapped the nuts.

Jeff