I am wondering how long it takes to swap springs and shocks. Is it pretty easy to do with basic tools and a spring compressor? Ive called a couple shops, firestone wanted $550 and said that it would take the better part of the day. Another shop quoted $295. This seems really high to me. A friend told me it took a shop 2 hrs to do his spring swap, but I have moved away from there. I wouldnt have a problem doing it on my own, but currently Im away from home, most of my tools, and a garage. I would have to do this in my apartment parking lot if I did it myself. Is this doable, or should I try to find a cheaper shop?

 

It's really easy to do, especially with air tools and a spring compressor (obviously) the hardest part is removing the top nut on the shock body itself. It's always corroded on and takes a cut off tool or air hammer to get the bastard off. Yes, it will take the better part of a day.

 

I did mine in 1/2 day, I could likely do it again in under 3 hours. Do it yourself, you can do the rears one day and the fronts another in the evenings - rears are < 1 hour to do

 

I used a lift, and did a set on my buddies 01 SS. It took us about 5 hours. If you have access to a lift then try it. In my guesstimation it should not take a good mechanic more than 3 hours.

John

 

I was able to do mine in 5 hours with the shocks and LCA's. It is very easy. I have done it before but with a buddy, it only took about 7 hours the first time. I was clueless and just dove in. What you need to do is just look up the install guide and youre set, I wish I would have. It has everything you need to know about the install. MAKE SURE YOU USE JACK STANDS! Dont get under there jerking and pulling with only a jack supporting the car. Im sure you planned on this but I have heard some horror stories and I dont want to see anyone get hurt. Anyways, good luck with the install.

 

do a search on my name in the lt1 tech. I wrote up several tips on removing and installing them.

It took me an hour to do the back ones, and awhile to do the front ones because i was running around everywhere looking for parts and tools.