smcnich

Yea, you need to unbolt the TRE, sway bar end link, and upper ball joint. You can leave the lower ball joint connected. Make sure you check the orientation of the top mount and the bottom of the shock before you take it apart. You need to get the new one set up pretty close to the same way (mounting holes for the top plate are a little elongated, so it doesn't have to be exact). I also needed a pass through socket and then another ratchet on top of the shock post to get the top nut tight without the piston turning.

Chaotic29

$600 is crazy... Most shops around my area charge $200-250 with an alignment included. Double check and make sure that is just install and not with parts. I installed mine myself though to save some money but from the pics... remove the tie rod end, sway bar end link, cv axle nut and upper control arm ball joint so the knuckle is free. I did not loosen my upper control arm pivot bolts. Once the knuckle is free you can use a bar or have a second friend stand on the lower control arm to get the entire coil over out. Getting the knuckle and upper ball joint back together is difficult by yourself but doable... I have no idea if it would work but a ratchet strap from the lower control arm around the upper might help get everything back together easier. The most difficult part for me putting it back together for me was trying to pull the control arm down with one hand and thread the nut on the ball joint with the other hand.
It was not too difficult for me, maybe 3 hours or so, but finding out after the fact that local shops charge around $200-250 I would probably just pay a shop since my time at home is limited and valuable.

There are a few install videos on youtube that are very helpful if you have not checked that out yet.


***I obviously did not read the pic close enough. Glad you got it off! haha it was a PITA to get the strut out. The newer trucks with 2 bolts are way easier.

ejbf2b

No worries, I did basically the same process as you to get both struts off. Just got the struts back from Big O Tires with the shocks installed. Now to get it back together. Tired of my new fuel wheels sitting in the box.

Thanks for the replies and help everyone

ejbf2b

Chaotic29

jk. Looks good!