I've searched all over and most threads I find are about replacing shocks and springs with coilovers. I just want to swap out my shocks.

Am I missing the DIY somewhere? It seems like it should be less involved if I am not removing the springs as well. Any thoughts?

Chris

 

You have to get the spring compressor. You can rent one from Autozone, there is one specifically for MacPhearson struts that works well. It is simple, you just loosen up the nut on top and pull the springs out. Put them back together doing the opposite. You might clean and re pack the steering bearing for the front struts or replace them. The fronts are a little complicated but the rears are easy.

 

http://www.autozone.com/test-scan-an...ssor/70135_0_0

 

Replacing the shocks alone requires pretty much the same work as doing coilovers or lowering springs. If you are only replacing shocks the entire shock+spring assemblies still need to come out. You can look at the coilover and lowering spring diy's for guidance as it's pretty much exactly the same when it comes to removal. Install is just swapping the shocks.