How hard would it be to change shocks on a 94 Formula? I am very mechanically inclined but I never changed shocks. Is this out of my leauge?

Are there any special tools I will need?

Thanks

Dan

 

Try reading through this:

http://members.aol.com/InjuneerZZ/HALEibch.htm

 

I used Injuneer's guide. Bottom line is this:
Rear is easy. Jack up the rear, put the car on jack stands, unbolt bottom shock mounts (22 mm socket), lower the rear axle until the shocks are fully extended, remove lower mount, loosen upper mount, shock falls out. Replacement is opposite of removal.
Front is not as easy. The top shock nut may be rusted into place. Generally they take lots of WD40 and an impact wrench or worst case is you will have to cut the shock shaft. In either case you will need a spring compressor. I would recommend you pull the shock and mount assembly and take it to a shop that has a spring compressor and let them do it. Make sure the bottom shock mount is aligned correctly in relation to the mount so it will bolt up to the A arm with no trouble.

 

Here's how bad the threaded end of the strut rod can be on a 2001.


sawing the strut apart was my only option. Be sure to use a spring compressor carefully.

 

lucky you...i had nothing but a stub on my first strut change. i hac to use a spring compressor...cut the shaft...and then grind off the upper mount to change off one of mine. expect to pay about 30/ea for taking to a shop.

i'd suggest a little por-15 when you do this job. or at least a crap-load of vasaleen asd some tape of some sort. load the top part with [edit] and cover with tape to prevent rust.