Front Shock Removal

[SETXK5]

1983 K5. After sitting for a long period of time, I got my Blazer going again yesterday. All is well but the top bushing in each front shock has dry rotted out. I noticed after hearing a loud banging noise coming from the front suspension. I have new bushings to put in. I went at the front mounts with a wrench but couldn't get it to budge. Its in the driveway now and I've sprayed the back side nut with oil to hopefully loosen it. You guys have any tricks? If I can't get it done in my driveway can I drive it a couple of miles to work tomorrow where I can get at it with an impact or can serious damage result?

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[SETXK5]

Ok. I've gotten the top mounts removed. I pushed the shock into compression to get it out of they way. Now, any tips for getting this bushing squeezed into the eye? I've an energy suspension bushings and Doetsch Tech shocks. It's a tight fit so far.

 

[max 02]

Wd 40 and a vise or a c clamp if you don`t have a vise.

 

[THRILLBILLY]

Definitely oil up the bushing with some WD40 or PB blaster. then as stated above, use a C-clamp to push the bushing back in. it will practically fall back in at that point.

 

[SETXK5]

Thanks guys. Got one side done and will knock out the other when it quits raining. Noticed that the bottom bushings are crumbling every time I moved the shock and the shock bodies are rusted. Leaning toward buying a new set instead of buying bushings for four corners. I've been out of the K5 game while this thing has been in various stages of restoration. Any recommendations/bang for the buck in the shock world right now?

 

[K85 Octane]

C clamps

lol, tab was open too long before posting

 

[THRILLBILLY]

I've ran pro comps ES3000s, rancho 5000s, and skyjacker hydros. They all have been pretty good and cheap.

 

[Jester1]

Everybody on here really likes the bilstiens and I have come to agree with them as I have run them on my duramax no for 5 years. I think i paid 250-275 for all four with shipping. No lift and nothing over the top just the stock replacements. i belive that GM even puts them on the z71 package as my wife had them on her avalanch. Great ride.