You might think replacement is a tough job, sometimes it is. However, the Silverado shock replacement isn’t as tough as you think. People do it without hiring any professionals. No doubt, it can be a little bit intimidating initially. Despite the fact, it’ll get easier if you’ve dedication for such a DIY project. A host of truck drivers test their patience by doing it themselves. So, if you’re one of them, you should give it a try by learning some tips and tricks regarding the task. Replacement of shocks in your Silverado vehicle will be handy with proper tools at your hands and trips and tricks in your mind.
Yet, learning about how to replace Silverado shock by yourself is more important than wishing to save hundreds of dollars by doing it yourself. The following parts will educate you by offering you all essential information you’ll require to master the project.
Note that, the following guideline is intended to help those who have already attempted to do it but failed anyway. Beginners may find it inadequate.
Why Change Shock?
Shock is one of those crucial parts of your vehicle that needs to be inspected regularly. More to say, you should check the status of the air shock after every 12,000 miles drive. Therefore, each time before you start the engine of the vehicle, you must test the shocks along with other parts. Meanwhile, if you notice some strange behavior from the shock, consider changing it soon. The following are the symptoms that hint you to change promptly.
- If it dives while taking a rough or a sudden break.
- If it winders on the highway.
- if it hits the bumps roughly.
- If there is any leak on the shock fluid.
While the strut, which looks quite similar to the shock, is supposed to digest countless bumps. Shock is generally estimated around 50,000 bumps on the road. So, make sure you replace the strut every 50,000 bumps.
What is the Difference Between Strut and Shock?
Although people mess up with these two diverse parts, they are practically not the same at all. They look quite similar in shape and sometimes even in size. Despite the fact, they don’t play the similar role. Technically, there is a difference between the shock and strut. Each wheel of your vehicle has any of them, not both of them together. Note that, you may employ shock in the rear, while struts for the front or vice versa. Choose any of the options sensibly by researching and asking your vehicle’s manufacturer or experts.
How to Replace Shocks Or Struts
Once you have done an inclusive research on the shocks and struts anyway by asking any expert or consulting your manufacturer’s manual, you can now move forward with shocks or struts. Make sure you go through the guideline below thoroughly or hire any professional to succeed the project. For the time being, let’s walk through the step-by-step formula.
Tools You Need
- Compressor
- Socket wrench
- Impact wrench
- Torque wrench
Step 1: Make Sure If You Need A Spring Compressor
This step is not applicable for all vehicles, except for those who come with spring and shocks/struts. They are integrated together. If so, you’ll require a matching compressor to separate them first. Get a compressor or you can save some money by taking in rent. Make sure that you know how to use the compressor competently.
Warning: Don’t forget to separate the spring first. It is a priority task. If you ignore it or forget to separate, you’ll have to pay the price as they can pop off and can cause damage in the way. Even you can get injured in the long haul.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle Partially
Now, you need to raise one side of your vehicle. Managing an actual lift isn’t possible all the time. However, if you can manage it, that would be total rocking! If not, manage to lift at least one side of the vehicle at a time, so that you can get enough access to put a jack-stand. And place it right under the jack point behind the front wheel.
Step 3: Separate the Wheel and the Old Shock/Strut
When you start this step, you’ll find the wheel is separated effortlessly but the absorber will make you tired for sure. If you find the shocks are integrated with spring, find a compressor to separate them safely. In addition, you’ll require a socket wrench in this stage. There are three bolts that keep the bottom of the strut in place. Use a wrench to loosen them. Use another impact wrench to loosen the strut top that is tightened with a tough bolt inside the engine compartment.
Step 4: Install the New One
You’re almost done with the project. Put the shock in the place where you’ve removed the previous one from. This step is supposed to be the easiest one. Later, use a torque wrench to tighten all the bolts back, complying with the OEM standard. After you’ve installed the shock and tightened perfectly, put the wheel back in place. Now, reverse step 2 carefully.
Step 5: Give A Test Drive
You’ve already done the main job with installing the shock and putting back the wheel in the right place. However, it’s time to see how much you could have mastered the project. The pro tip for you at this stage is to take your vehicle on the road for a slow testing drive. Don’t ride on the highway or on the bustling road. Drive slowly at first and roar gradually on the road.
Summing Up
After going through the reading, you might think of giving a try for Silverado shock replacement. Yes, we can now leave you with your compressor, wrench and shocks anytime to replace the old one. However, before you pull up your shocks, make sure you understand the method and you have everything you need for the project.
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