It has been awhile since I posted. This site has been invaluable in helping me with complete front brake replacement, belt, fuel filter and front hubs last week and new shocks this week on my DD.

I read the write-ups on rear shock replacement and thought I was prepared for all four bolts snapping off today. An hour later after pounding away with a three pound hammer and long punch I realized I was wrong. Not a problem, I needed an excuse to replace the 25gal compressor I traded off 10 years ago (and regretted ever since) so I picked up a new upright 20 gal compressor and an impact hammer. This worked and got rid of the old nuts but I did not feel like trying to fish the bolts through from the bottom.

I also did not want the gaping rectangular holes in the cargo floor shown in the write ups. I compromised and drilled up from the bottom, then used a 1 1/4" hole saw to cut round holes just big enough to place the new bolts in from the top. Standard hardware store plugs will fit the holes and they will be there for the next time I need to replace shocks. I wanted to add this as I have not seen this method in a write-up although I am sure some one else has done it. Sorry for the crappy cell phone pic but it should give the general idea.

 

Great tip!!

Add a little paint to that bare metal and your golden.

 

that is a great tip. i actually got lucky during my lift install and only broke one. but getting that 1 nutted back up was alittle trying.

nonetheless; i wirebrushed the other studs and used comercial grade antiseize. so i should be good for next time. i still have all new shock bolts front and rear,minus one...lol. good job.