Just asking the question indicates either a) limited automotive experience, or b) limited mechanical aptitude. Not knocking the OP because everyone has to start somewhere, but that's what I took from the question.

 

+1 on using Grade 8 if you have to replace the bolts.

 

I was just asking because I want to make sure I don't screw it up. I don't really see the foul in asking questions, even if they seem dumb. I thought the forum was supposed to be here to be helpful. Who cares if I don't have experience working on cars? I bet a lot of people on the forum started with little experience. My mechanical aptitude is not what concerns me, but ya...I haven't had a lot of experience working on cars...Haven't had an older truck in a while. But, that's why I post questions. And Miami_Son...I've seen posts from you too asking questions that showed your lack of experience.

 

First off, Peter, I never called you dumb or said there was anything wrong with your asking the question. Please don't infer things that aren't there. When I reply to a question I have to determine if my answer will be understandable to the OP. I do that by trying to discern their skill level from the question. It is not an exact science, but as changing shocks on most vehicles is among the easiest tasks an owner can do themself, I have to assume that someone asking about it is not particularly skilled at working on vehicles. You have confirmed my original assessment of your skills. That's nothing to be ashamed of, IMO. Most people are blissfully ignorant of how their cars work and even more don't want anything to do with modifying or maintaining them beyond driving it to the service center. That you do speaks well of you. We are a rare breed of people who want to get dirty and do things for ourselves and know as much about our vehicles as possible. Good for you on that.

As for my questions, I am no stranger to 4WD trucks, engine theory, or repair processes. I have a high mechanical aptitude and have made my living over the past 30 years as a car mechanic, appliance repairman, avionics installer, motorcycle mechanic and shop owner and magazine technical writer. Today, I make my living in video production. What I am new to was this particular truck. My last Dodge 4X4 was a '79 Power Wagon I sold in 1988. In between I have owned a Jeep CJ7, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and basically used them as commuters and tow vehicles since a Harley is my main transportation. This RAM 2500 is a far different animal from those and I needed to get back up to speed and familiar with its particular idiosyncracies. I have forgotten more about vehicles than most people even know to begin with. Such is the case when you no longer deal with it every day.

I apologize if you thought I was belittling you. I wasn't.