To remove the shock absorber, start by loosening the wheel lug nuts and raising the front of the vehicle. Support it securely on jackstands and remove the wheel. Mark the shock absorbers with a R or L if they are both removed at the same time. Remove the wheel speed sensor cable bracket from the steering knuckle. Remove the cotter pin and loosen the castle nut from the upper ball joint stud. Detach the ball joint from the steering knuckle using a puller and remove the nut. Pull the steering knuckle outward and to the back of the front wheel opening, being careful not to strain the brake hose. Remove the shock absorber clevis pinch bolt and nut. Remove the clevis bolt from the lower control arm and tap the clevis from the shock absorber using a soft-faced hammer. Remove the four bolts from the shock tower attaching the upper control arm/shock absorber. Remove the upper control arm mounting bracket and shock absorber as an assembly. To inspect the shock absorber assembly, check for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other obvious damage. Also, check the coil spring for chips and corrosion. Replace any damaged components. To install the shock absorber, connect the assembly to the upper control arm mount and install it into the shock tower. Align the locating pins and mounting holes and tighten the four bolts. Install the clevis on the shock absorber and tap it until properly aligned and fully seated against the locating tab. Install the bolt and tighten it. Install the clevis-to-lower control arm bolt without tightening it. Install the upper ball joint into the steering knuckle, tighten the castle nut, and install a new cotter pin. Install the speed control routing cable on the steering knuckle. Use a floor jack to raise the lower control arm to simulate normal ride height and tighten the shock absorber clevis-to-lower control arm bolt. Install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts.
