Front Shock Press Fit Bolt Removal

[67BroncoG1]

A while ago I purchased the Rock Krawler 1" front spacer lift to get back the spring sag the winch created. The appeal of this method was that it didn't seem to involve dropping the LCA's or removing the shocks. From what I have been reading it seems that I still have to remove the shocks in order to use a press to remove the press fit bolts on the lower shocks.

Has anyone managed to remove these bolts without removing the shocks?

Here is a link to the spacer lift in question https://rockkrawler.com/bronco-1-0-inch-adventure-system/

Sponsored

 

[Bmadda]

I used a balljoint/ujoint type c-clamp press to push them out. I had the coilovers off the vehicle when I did it, but I suppose I coulda done it on the truck. They have knurls on them like a wheel stud, and fit really tight, you might be able to pound them out w/an air hammer if you put some weight on the LCA so that there is something to press against. Just gotta get them past the knurl, not all the way out, then can remove them by hand

 

[67BroncoG1]

I used a balljoint/ujoint type c-clamp press to push them out. I had the coilovers off the vehicle when I did it, but I suppose I coulda done it on the truck. They have knurls on them like a wheel stud, and fit really tight, you might be able to pound them out w/an air hammer if you put some weight on the LCA so that there is something to press against. Just gotta get them past the knurl, not all the way out, then can remove them by hand

Was thinking about doing some sort of C-press to push them through. The next thing will be if I get them out will I be able to get the spacer in between the shock and the LCA. Perhaps a spring compressor is the solution for that part.

 

[orion]

I would quite trying to figure out an easy way and just undo the lower control arm. It's the easiest way. I used a 3 lb sledge while kneeling on coil and pounded out the studs. Easy. Before loosening the lower control mounting bolts, use a sharpie and mark location of the pins on the adjustment washer so you can go back to where it was.

Edit to add: Don't tighten any of the suspension stuff till your Bronco is sitting on its own weight again, AKA the lower control arm bolts, upper control arm bolt, or the lower shock bolts. Anything with a rubber bushing basically.

 

[67BroncoG1]

I would quite trying to figure out an easy way and just undo the lower control arm. It's the easiest way. I used a 3 lb sledge while kneeling on coil and pounded out the studs. Easy. Before loosening the lower control mounting bolts, use a sharpie and mark location of the pins on the adjustment washer so you can go back to where it was.

Edit to add: Don't tighten any of the suspension stuff till your Bronco is sitting on its own weight again, AKA the lower control arm bolts, upper control arm bolt, or the lower shock bolts. Anything with a rubber bushing basically.

You are likely right. The LCA's only have two bolts each. It isn't like that is such a big deal. I guess I'm avoiding taking it to the alignment shop.

 

[orion]

You are likely right. The LCA's only have two bolts each. It isn't like that is such a big deal. I guess I'm avoiding taking it to the alignment shop.

Do you have a Firestone Center near you? If so, they have a lifetime alignments for $280. My Bronco only has 8k miles, 1 year old and I've used it like 6-7 times already. It has definitely paid for itself.

 

[Bmadda]

Was thinking about doing some sort of C-press to push them through. The next thing will be if I get them out will I be able to get the spacer in between the shock and the LCA. Perhaps a spring compressor is the solution for that part.

You wont need a spring compressor for that part. The LCA flexes down more than far enough (with weight off of it). Worst case if you separate the upper ball joint it drops way down...probly dont even need to do that tho

 

[saxguy09]

A while ago I purchased the Rock Krawler 1" front spacer lift to get back the spring sag the winch created. The appeal of this method was that it didn't seem to involve dropping the LCA's or removing the shocks. From what I have been reading it seems that I still have to remove the shocks in order to use a press to remove the press fit bolts on the lower shocks.

Has anyone managed to remove these bolts without removing the shocks?

Here is a link to the spacer lift in question https://rockkrawler.com/bronco-1-0-inch-adventure-system/

OP, did you ever install this? What route did you chose. I just ordered the same kit…

 

[67BroncoG1]

I ended up letting my local tire shop do it. It need an alignment after the install and they didn't charge much to do it.

Sponsored