Struts shocks and ?

[jcint]

I'm getting new struts and shocks for my 96 gt. My question is how hard is this to install. Do i need additional items besides the stuts and shocks. I've never done this before so i'm kinda nervous about messing things up. Do i need a special tool? Will i need alignment after the install? sorry about the newbie questions i'ts just i'm no mechanic but i think this is something i can tackle.

 

[Hornetsnest]

Are you doing springs too or do you already have aftermarket ones installed?

 

[03ghoststang]

well besides having all the proper tools to do the job which might require an impact gun. For the front when the car is lifted you must put a jack under the control arm and raise it to hold the arm in place or else the spring might have the tendency to fly out and also to relieve any stress the strut might have any other questions feel free to ask

 

[jcint]

hmmm i guess i better have someone do the install. i have no special tools. rears are a snap..right?

 

[cracula69]

Install isn't difficult if you're handy but keep in mind that you may want to consider installing caster camber plates and a bumpsteer kit if you plan on lowering the car. During the install I'd suggest a jack and 2 jack stands to help support the frame while you lower the control arms w/ the jack. I just finished installing a K-member, tubular control arms, and an Eibach pro-street coilover kit & it was fairly easy. Don't forget that you'll need to get your car to the alignment shop asap once this work is done.

 

[03ghoststang]

hmmm i guess i better have someone do the install. i have no special tools. rears are a snap..right?

the rears are easier but you will still need a jack under the axle not the diff itself but on the side to lift that side up to get it in the hole on the top to screw it in

 

[jcint]

yeah i have jack stands and a good floor jack. I don't plan on lowering it i just want replacement shocks since the ones on now are shot to ****. Heck i think i'll give it a shot........at least the rears first so i can see what i'm getting into as far as tools and time.

 

[Kilgore Trout]

I did mine, it was easy. I just followed the instructions in my Haynes manual and referred to the Bullitt Archive.

I have a real long breaker bar and that was very helpful on the strut bolts.

 

[tomustang]

Rule of thumb is to always get an alignment after messing with the front suspension

It's an easy job, the rear being the easiest, just put a jack under the control arms and slowly depress the springs and keep an eye on the brake lines so they don't strech out

It helps to have an air gun to get the strut bolt back on