Author Topic: Front shock replacement  (Read 317 times)

Offline 68 GT

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Front shock replacement
« on: October 20, 2022, 01:15:52 PM »
Trying to install new front shocks on a 67 restoration. Are there any tips to compress the rubber bushings on the bottom of the shock to be able to install the bottom rubber, flat washer and nut? Also, the driver's side , the spring needs compressed about 3/8 of an inch to be able to get the bottom of the shock to go through the spring perch. No engine or transmission in the car. I put a floor jack under the lower control arm to try to compress the spring, I start to lift the whole car. Any tips?
VIN 7T01C246XXX
Actual build date 5-11-67

VIN 8F01J208XXX
Actual build date 6-27-68

Offline RoyceP

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Re: Front shock replacement
« Reply #1 on: October 20, 2022, 02:06:38 PM »
The suspension is over traveled right now. If you were to install the front shocks they would likely be ruined by the time you drove the car. The shop manual shows how to make the special tool needed to support the upper control arm to enable you to install the shocks properly. You will have to wait until you have that tool and the engine in the car.
1968 W code 427 Cougar XR-7 GTE Feb 23 Dearborn C6 / 3.50 open
1968 R code 428CJ Cougar XR-7 May 13 Dearborn C6 / 3.91 T - Lock

Offline 68 GT

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Re: Front shock replacement
« Reply #2 on: October 21, 2022, 06:42:47 PM »
Thank you for the reply! I have removed the shocks, upper shock brackets and shock tower braces until the engine gets installed in the car! I appreciate your advice!
VIN 7T01C246XXX
Actual build date 5-11-67

VIN 8F01J208XXX
Actual build date 6-27-68