[DeTomaso] replacing shocks today-help!

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 4/24/10 6 57 46, panteratime at aol.com writes:


> I am getting different adive on replacing front shocks on a 1972L.  some 
> folks say I must remove lower ball joint and entire brake caliper disc 
> etc.. and drop lower a-arm. 
> 
>>>Why would you have to touch the brakes?   They have nothing to do with 
this operation.


> > Some folks say just to remove mounting bolts and remove shock assembly 
> (as does the Ford manual) 
> Before I do this project, I wanted to know what I am really getting into.  
> Just from a visual it looks tight to remove the shock assembly from 
> between the a-arms without dropping a-arm.  Maybe if I push top of shock inward I 
> can slip it out? 
> 
>>>Highly doubtful.   You can try, but be expecting to need to remove the 
bottom ball joint from the A-arm in order to get enough clearance to get the 
shock out.   You won't need to fully remove the A-arm from the car; you'll 
just need to pull the lower ball joint, spindle etc. out away from the car 
enough to get clearance to get the shock out.

Unless you're a mechanical Houdini. :>)

> >I have limited mechanical skills, I have done brake jobs, intake, valve 
> covers, brakelines, radiator etc..  but no suspension work.   
> Am in in over my head? 
> 

>>>You're making WAY too much out of this.   It's a simple nuts-and-bolts 
kind of job, well within the scope of your abilities.   Granted, you'll find 
yourself constantly reaching for a new tool as a new problem arises, but 
they will all be minor problems.   By the time you're done, you will have used 
the appropriate sockets (one on each side; there's usually not clearance to 
get a wrench on one side and socket on the other, for the lower ball joint 
bolts), long tapered punch, prybar or large screwdriver, BFH, and profanity. 
:>)

Mike