Mopar 5181844AA Mount-Shock ABSORBER

Raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands placed under the frame rails. For models with a solid rear axle, support the rear axle with a floor jack placed under the axle tube on the side being worked on, ensuring not to raise the axle but just support its weight. For models with Independent Rear Suspension, support the outer end of the control arm on the side being worked on with a jack, raising it just enough to support its weight. Remove the fastener(s) that secure the upper end of the shock absorber to the frame or body, applying penetrating oil if the fastener(s) won't loosen due to rust. It may be necessary to remove the two plastic fasteners for the rear fenderwell liner and pull it back to access the upper shock mounting fasteners. For models equipped with a shock solenoid/dampening assembly mounted on the shock absorber, disconnect the electrical connector before removing the absorber, noting how the canister is installed for proper reinstallation. Remove the nut and bolt that attach the lower end of the shock to the axle bracket, applying penetrating oil if the nut is frozen. Extend the new shock absorber as far as possible and install new rubber grommets into the shock absorber eyes if they are not already present. Installation is the reverse of removal, ensuring to tighten the shock absorber mounting fasteners to the specified torque.

Models equipped with a shock absorber and coil spring assembly allow for individual replacement of shocks or springs, but disassembly by a qualified repair shop with the proper equipment is necessary, which can significantly increase project costs. For 2010 and earlier models, begin by removing the air box cover, air intake hose, and Power Distribution Center bracket nuts. For the left front shock, shift the Power Distribution Center aside to access the upper shock mount nuts; for the right front shock, move the coolant reservoir. Remove the four upper mounting nuts, loosen the front wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle securely on jackstands, and take off the front wheels. Detach the brake caliper adapter bolts and support the adapter and caliper before removing the rotor. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle by removing its nut, and then take out the lower clevis bolt and lower stabilizer bolt at the lower control arm. For 2011 and later models, remove any wiring harness retaining clips around the upper shock mounting studs and the three upper mounting fasteners. Again, loosen the front wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the front wheels. It may be easier to access the lower shock assembly if the front of the wheel/brake rotor is turned inward. Remove the wheel speed sensor and any wire retainers, then position it aside. Safely support the brake caliper out of the way, raise the outer end of the lower control arm slightly to simulate normal ride height, and separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle. Remove the lower stabilizer link nut and the lower shock absorber mounting fastener. On 4WD models, remove the front drive axles. For models with an Active Dampening System canister on the shock absorber, disconnect the electrical connector before removing the shock absorber, noting the canister's installation for reassembly. Remove the shock absorber and inspect it for leaks, dents, cracks, and other damage, as well as the coil spring for chips and cracks. If any components are worn or damaged, have the unit serviced or replaced. Installation follows the reverse order of removal, ensuring fasteners are tightened to the specified torque, with the shock absorber lower mounting fasteners tightened at normal ride height. Finally, tighten the wheel lug nuts to the specified torque.