Installing rear shocks

[astat1]

Is there a trick (or a secret wrench) to hold the rear shock nut in the crossmember? A short socket is too short for the bolt end, a long socket doesn't fit between the crossmember and trunk floor, an open end won't fit in the crossmember lip. It came off easy enough, Thanks

 

[YY1]

I've been collecting "medium" length sockets from pawn shops.

They're about halfway between a standard and a deep, but I don't think they are marketed as such.
I know Stanley makes them, and I'm sure the higher end manufacturers do as well.
They are the perfect size for under the dash master cyl work, among other things.

 

[Dako]

Put the box end of the wrench on the nut with the wrench parallel in the channel to hold it stationary, then turn the bolt with a socket.

 

[Propwash]

A ratcheting box end wrench works wonders

 

[bandit]

I just used a socket wrench extension with a pivoting head and put the socket on there. This is a little thinner than the ratchet/socket so fits in there.

Good luck

 

[Dennis H]

Off topic. But, the 4 Bilsteins I had installed were one of the best upgrades ever. Sweet handling, much improved. A short time later, an annoying rattle started. Eventually found out that the top right rear shock bolt was loose. We think it got shoved in wrong or hardware was wrong.

It has been snugged and is quiet now. I think it happened because of the bitchy spot you are describing. Make sure it is seated and tight.