Changing Rear Shocks

[Stumper]

This is a bit embarrassing but I was having one hell of a time installing new KYB rear shocks on my 62 today. 20 years ago it probably would have taken 10 minutes but I just don’t have the strength anymore to compress those damn things. I tried installing top first and bottom first but just cant compress the shock and hold it long enough…. With the mounts being at such a steep angle I couldn’t find a way to use a jack or clamps. Any helpful suggestions?…..

 

[pnora]

An extra pair of hands.

 

[Demon 2048]

Wrap a ratchet strap around the top and bottom and compress the shock until you get the bolts in the upper and lower holes.

 

[khryslerkid]

Stands under the frame and let the rear hang as low as it will go.

 

[Stumper]

Gonna try the ratchet strap tomorrow..

 

[Fran Blacker]

SEE below. A bottle jack on spring or rear diff can get you an inch. Don't get to happy with bottle jack. It will work if you a little bit more to go.

Stands under the frame and let the rear hang as low as it will go.

 

[Kern Dog]

This is a bit embarrassing but I was having one hell of a time installing new KYB rear shocks on my 62 today. 20 years ago it probably would have taken 10 minutes but I just don’t have the strength anymore to compress those damn things. I tried installing top first and bottom first but just cant compress the shock and hold it long enough…. With the mounts being at such a steep angle I couldn’t find a way to use a jack or clamps. Any helpful suggestions?…..

Yeah. Throw those shocks in the trash and buy Bilsteins!
Seriously. The KYBs are junk, man. The reason KYBs are cheap is because they are crap. They give a harsh ride that "seasoned" enthusiasts don't usually like.
I ran them for years because I was short on cash and didn't know any better.
In 2015. I actually went from 1.0 to 1.15 torsion bars along with throwing out the KYBs and installing Bilsteins. The car actually rode better despite the huge jump in spring rate.

 

[33 IMP]

KYB.
K ill
Y our
B ack

 

[Darter6]

ratchet strap

I also have used large zip ties doubled.Installed the top bolt and cut the zip and as it approached the bottom mount slid it on. Gotta be fast.

Throw those shocks in the trash

Yeah, not a fan of the KYB's.

KYB.
K ill
Y our
B ack

I agree. Installed them on my 64 Belvedere . Felt every crack in the road.Should be called "Ruff Riders"

 

[Stumper]

Well, I managed to get then installed today using a ratchet strap. What a PITA! Thought I could encircle the shock with the strap at first but that didn’t work. Finally used some holes in the cross frame for one end and the shock bottoms on the other.
thanks for the ideas and help guys!