Though we all know, truck shocks play an essential role in our road trips; helping us to travel as smoothly as possible. It absorbs the excess of energy and shocks generated by a rough road. As time progresses, the materials of the shocks may wear out, which will cause the cars to bounce. If the truck’s shocks are not right, even the slightest bump on the road will start hitting harder. So, it’s essential to replace shocks on a truck.
Test The Shocks
It is not at all problematic to figure out that the shocks are not working correctly. Even a critical visual inspection will bring you to a conclusion. If you see the weeping or dripping of hydraulic fluid across the piston foundation, it is a symptom of hydraulic-based shock wear.
If you want to test the shocks, force the truck over the shocks and release it instantly and see if the truck stays stable or gives a small bounce. Bounces are not permitted when shocks occur, since the vehicle is automatically balanced by correctly operating shocks. But if there’s a bounce, it means there’s no right dampening of the shock.
Why should replace the shocks?
Like anything else, shocks will wear off after a time. When that happens, the rough road will cost you dearly. You’re not even going to be able to brake as quickly as you were. So, whether there’s a pace breaker or a bump, you’re not going to have the right power to go over it quickly. Loss of control can be risky, particularly on long journeys, because you’re vulnerable to accidents. Besides, the pain will drive you out and frustrate you.
How to Install Front Shocks?
If you’ve realised that you need to change the front shocks on your vehicle, you will not have to run to the expert or the mechanic. You should do it yourself! It would be best if you kept a few security precautions in mind, and everything’s going to be perfect.
Let’s have a look at the step by step guide on front shocks replacement on a chevy truck.
- Firstly, block the tires so that the vehicle doesn’t drive away. The transmission must be in ‘park’ or 1st gear mode. Then remove the lug nuts. You don’t need to remove the bolts altogether; you need to loosen them.
- If you notice that the shocks are rusty, then it is advised that you use penetrating oil before beginning the operation. It’s essential to make the implementation effortless and seamless.
- Take the jack to lift the truck and lock it at the stands. Take extra care of the setup here, so you have to work under the truck, and it need not fall. TThe rear tires need to be 6 to 8 inches up to the ground surface.
- Using your safety glasses and move underneath the truck to initiate the process of replacing the rear shocks. Remove the upper shock holding bolt from the plug. You may also use the threaded rod with a unique tool to stop the rod from spinning. Then cut the bottom shock bolt and make a few taps with the hammer.
- Secure the threads or use new hardware while you’re doing the entire process. Install the two leading mounting hardware and connect the new shock to the vehicle, beginning with the top shock bolts and washers. Using your hands and tighten them up. Adjust the bottom of the shock to the latest shock extension.
- Lower the truck, position the jacks in their places, and go to the test drive. If any component is absent, do not initiate the installation process. It is essential to read the instructions before and after the procedure so that you can figure out what information is missing if any!
Things to Keep in Mind
If there is only one jack supporting a truck, position the support stand as per the manufacturer’s guide. This is compulsory for your safety purposes.
Never avoid protective devices, such as eye gear, hand gloves, and face cover. They are essential when you’re engaged in such mechanical activities.
If you can, get a helper around you during the installation process! He will help you get the stuff you need when you’re mounting the shocks under the vehicle.
This is a comprehensive guideline for replacing shocks on a truck. We hope you can quickly instal the shocks on your Chevy right now. If you’re still nervous and confused, it’s best to leave it to the mechanic.
