Any surprises to look out for replacing front shocks on an '80?
02-01-2006, 03:20 PM
#1
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Any surprises to look out for replacing front shocks on an '80?
Just doing a little homework and wondered if anyone has comments about a DIY front shock replacement? I'm probably going to replace bushings and things in the front suspension if its not too too involved also. Looks like the boot on my steering rack is toast despite having replaced the rack 4 years ago.
02-01-2006, 03:40 PM
#2
Rennlist Member
You require very strong spring compressors, get 2 pair if you don't already have them, to disassemble the coilovers. Having an air compressor helps tons as does recent motor mount work as if you follow Tonys detailed instructions on his web site you remove the lower A arm.
Why are you only replacing the fronts?
Why are you only replacing the fronts?
02-01-2006, 04:13 PM
#3
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Replacing the fronts only because one shock is totally blown out from hitting a manhole that was sticking up during resurfacing of the road. How I didn't bend a wheel I don't know but the wheel is totally bouncy over bumps now and doesn't seem to be a balancing issue due to a squared off wheel. The front was sort of bouncy anyhow according to my mechanic who knows his sh*t (worked as a wrench for a 996 supercup team and owns Mind Over Motorsports in San Diego - a Rennlist Sponsor last I checked). I don't have any spring compressors at the moment; nor do I have any air tools. Hoping I can rent the compressors.....wait a sec....my friend has an air compressor and may have air tools...we'll see about that. Without any responses with pics etc. I guess a long search of the archives for a front end rebuild or something is in order....was just looking for some firsthand feedback on what to avoid. I guess I'll figure it all out once I get in there.
02-01-2006, 04:21 PM
#4
Rennlist Member
My feedback is firsthand; did the Eibach/Bilstein upgrade last Oct.............solo.
As mentioned, check out Tonys web site: http://members.rennlist.com/v1uhoh/index.htm
As mentioned, check out Tonys web site: http://members.rennlist.com/v1uhoh/index.htm
02-01-2006, 04:42 PM
#6
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Thanks Malcolm. Jimbo, not sure I want to spend $$$$ on the compressors until I know how much it is to rent vs. buy. I'll be calling you soon to get all my new replacement parts!
02-01-2006, 04:57 PM
#7
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They sell for $12-$13 as I recall and I only use one set, two on each spring. going back together I use the Eibach springs which are shorter and do not need to be compressed 
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02-01-2006, 05:04 PM
#8
Chronic Tool Dropper
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The compressors are in the H-F sale flier that came in the mail last week. They are cheap to start with even when they aren't on sale. If you want to borrow a set come on by, but... it may cost less to just go to your closest H-F store and buy them, considering the cost of gas for two trips to Glendale and all. Or maybe I need to do a road trip to Santa Barbara this weekend...
02-01-2006, 05:05 PM
#9
Drifting
I used the HFT mechanical spring compressors that were on sale for under $10 a set.
On the rear, one set will work fine. But on the front springs, I used 1-1/2 sets (three compressors).
I noticed that Kragen has loaner set at my local store. A hydraulic unit would be a much better way to go.
On the rear, one set will work fine. But on the front springs, I used 1-1/2 sets (three compressors).
I noticed that Kragen has loaner set at my local store. A hydraulic unit would be a much better way to go.
02-01-2006, 06:03 PM
#10
Advice: Maybe thing about removing the entire suspension whole, from each side. Upper, lower arms, hub, spindle, brakes, etc. Then do everything on a bench. ITS EVEN EASIER if the fender is off, but its not required.
02-01-2006, 06:30 PM
#11
Rennlist Member
Originally Posted by borland
I used the HFT mechanical spring compressors that were on sale for under $10 a set.
On the rear, one set will work fine. But on the front springs, I used 1-1/2 sets (three compressors).
I noticed that Kragen has loaner set at my local store. A hydraulic unit would be a much better way to go.
On the rear, one set will work fine. But on the front springs, I used 1-1/2 sets (three compressors).
I noticed that Kragen has loaner set at my local store. A hydraulic unit would be a much better way to go.
02-01-2006, 07:13 PM
#12
Rennlist Member
Remove wheel, caliper and rotor. Remove the lower shock through bolt and the four bolts securing the lower control arm to body ( there are other things in the way, like tow hooks - but they swing out easily). You can then 'corkscrew' the coil over down through the upper A-arm after removal of its three outer nuts under the hood. With the caliper and rotor gone, one guy can wrestle all the parts sufficiently.
Air tools are great, but my first sets happened nicely with 1/2" socket gear. Three compressors on the spring are far better than two - especially if you've ever witnessed one slipping!
Talk to Jim or your vendor of choice about sourcing the ( used) front height adjuster gear, for now is the time to update if not already done. The front will then have the adjustability of the rear .....
Air tools are great, but my first sets happened nicely with 1/2" socket gear. Three compressors on the spring are far better than two - especially if you've ever witnessed one slipping!
Talk to Jim or your vendor of choice about sourcing the ( used) front height adjuster gear, for now is the time to update if not already done. The front will then have the adjustability of the rear .....