Administrator and Claude Tainter N4W Card Holder Ultimate N4Wheeler
Posted
Written by Desert Rat
Tools needed:
19mm Wrench and Socket
10mm Socket
½" Socket
9/16" Wrench
Breaker Bar or Impact Wrench
Inspect your kit to ensure you have all necessary parts:
S Shaped Bracket
L Shaped Bracket
2 U-bolts and 4 nuts
Shock and boot
4 Rubber Shock Bushings
2 Shock Nuts
2 Bolts, Nuts, and Lock Washers
Installation:
Begin by lifting the front of the truck up on ramps or jackstands (not absolutely necessary, but it makes it easier to get under the truck to work)
Chock the rear wheels and set the E brake.
Remove the front skidplate using a 10mm socket.
Set the 6 bolts and the skidplate aside.
Loosen and remove the 2 rear bolts on the steering box found on the driver side of the frame using a 19mm wrench and breaker bar or impact wrench.
Using the longer supplied bolts, secure the S shaped bracket on the inside of the frame.
Tighten bolts securing the S-shaped bracket in place. (locktite recommended)
Install the L shaped bracket on the piston end of the shock . Install the shock washer, the bushing, then the L shaped bracket, the second rubber bushing, and the outer washer.
Secure with the provided nut using a 9/16" wrench. Squeeze the bushings down with the nut until compressed to about half their original thickness.
Install a washer and another bushing on the fixed end of the shock and insert into the hole on the bottom of the S shaped bracket. Then install the other bushing, washer, and nut and tighten down in the same manner as the other end.
Loop the U-bolts over the centerlink and into the holes on the L shaped bracket. The bolt ends will be pointing toward the front of the truck and at a downward angle. Hand tighten so you can still move it.
Tip: On VG33 V6 models, ensure there is adequate clearance between the shock and the oil filter. If it's too close, rotate the L shaped bracket on the U-bolts downward until adequate clearance is obtained. You'll want about 1.5-2 inches between the shock and the oil filter.)
Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right (passenger side on Left Hand Drive models).
Extend the shock all the way, then compress back about ¾" Now tighten your U-bolts down. Ensure you tighten them evenly.
Now turn the steering wheel all the way left (slowly) while someone watches underneath to ensure the L shaped bracket does not interfere with the frame and that the shock is within its working range from lock to lock.
Reinstall the skidplate and you're done!
Posts: 7414 | Location: SWANKy heaven, AZ | Registered: June 22, 2002
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