How to Replace Front Shocks 2002-05 Dodge Ram 1500

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In this video, we're going to show you how to replace the front shocks on this 2004 Dodge Ram, same as any 02 to '08. The only tools you'll need are a 18-millimeter wrench and an adjustable wrench, as well as a 21-millimeter socket with a ratchet. In this video, I do have the vehicle up on a lift with the tire off. You do not need to remove the tires. You can just simply turn the wheels all the way one way, and that gives you clearance to get in under there and make this repair. I just took the wheels off because it made it a whole lot easier to video.

Okay, to remove the shock, you can see there's a spot where you can hook a wrench on the top there, and then you need another wrench to pull out that bolt. Coat it with some penetrating oil first. Okay, so up here, I've got an 18-millimeter wrench on that nut. I'm going to take a 17-millimeter, and you can see that everything just kind of twists. So I'm going to take a large adjustable wrench and lock it onto that stud. Okay, and it moves hopefully. I'm getting it to move. Now, it'll- yep. Now, it's moving without holding it. Okay, we'll fast forward here as I work that nut off. Then there is a bushing and a washer on top.

Okay, now here on the bottom, there's a 21-millimeter bolt. You should be able to get it with a good-sized ratchet socket. Just to speed things up. This little bolt is out. The shock comes down and out. Okay, this is actually a fairly new this is actually a new shock, so I'm just going to re-install it. Okay, I'm going to freeze the frame here. I have a little piece of information that I kind of forgot to mention because I was just kind of pulling it out and re-installing it just to show you how to do it. On the shock, before you install a new shock, you want to place a large washer first and then a bushing, and then when you put the shock up in there that rubber bushing goes against the frame. This obviously holds it nice and securely and prevents it from rattling.

We're going to install it. The installation is just the opposite. You may need to push the shock up in a little bit to get this bolt started. The bolt should be all right, it should be torqued to about 100 foot-pounds. It's not a crucial bolt, so if you don't use a torque wrench on it, you'll be okay. Just get it as tight as you can. Now up top, put your bushing on first, then your washer, and then your locking nut.

We hope this helps you out. Brought to you by www.1AAuto.com, your source for quality replacement parts and the best service on the internet. Please feel free to call us toll-free 888-844-3393. We're the company that serves you on the internet and in person.