How to Install Monroe Shock

by Eli Laurens

Monroe shocks use a gas-pressurized cylinder to cushion hard jolts and keep the vehicle stable on the highway. These shocks can wear out or leak, lowering efficiency or failing completely. The average backyard mechanic can install a set of Monroe shocks in about two hours.

Step 1

Raise the vehicle with the floor jack by placing the jack head on a frame rail and pumping the lever until a wheel is in the air. Place a jack stand close to the floor jack, on the frame rail, for support.

Step 2

Remove the wheel by turning all lug nuts counterclockwise, then pulling the wheel from the hub. Place the wheel aside.

Step 3

Turn the lower shock mount bolt's nut counterclockwise, but do not remove it entirely. Leave it loosened on the bolt.

Step 4

Turn the top mount bolt counterclockwise and slide it out of the shock's eyelet. Some models, especially GM, have twin vertical screws holding the shock in with a mount plate to dissipate force. Turn these screws counterclockwise and remove the plate in the same manner.

Step 5

Remove the lower mount nut entirely, and slide the bottom shock eyelet from the bolt. The shock is now free, and can be manipulated out of the car.

Step 6

Replace the old shock with the Monroe by positioning it into the top mount first, then securing its mount bolts or screws by turning them clockwise until they are tight.

Step 7

Cut the keeper strap present on all new Monroe shocks, which will allow it to decompress slowly. As it passes the lower mount bolt, slide it onto the bolt. If you miss the chance, then compress the shock and try again. Once the shock is on the bolt, tighten the mount nut clockwise until snug.