I purchased Monroe gas matic shocks to replace the stock shocks on my 99 1500 2wd 5.2. The first step in my Hayne's Manual says to remove the upper bolt. When I try to hold the center post, I can't. Even with PB blaster, vice grips, and a open-ended wrench. I didn't even try to loosen the lower bolt since I couldn't get anywhere with the upper, but I have a 18v impact wrench (1/2 inch) from Harbor Freight and a set of impact sockets (i think this calls for a 13/16"). I plan to use a closed end wrench on the nut and the impact on the bolt. Any tips for the process as a whole (I didn't find a DIY on the forum) and getting the upper nut off is greatly appreciated.

 

I cut that nut off with a sawzall.

 

disc grinder or oscillating tool work as well.

 

If you can get it in there, a chain wrench around the upper shock body will do the trick.

 

I parted out one of these trucks once, couldn't get that bolt loose either, the shock just spun with the bolt. I cut mine with an angle grinder.

 

Depending on the shock, and if it is accessible there should be a place for a wrench on the bottom of the stud your bolt is attached to.

 

Thanks guys. I will give it another shot this weekend with my craftsman rotary tool. I don't have an angle grinder, but the sanding discs should work the same;may just take longer; I've cut several metal pieces on my bike with it.

To be honest, I never thought about cutting it. I was trying to figure out how to loosen it the hard way. Much appreciated

 

agree on cutting it if you have a new nut. Shops cut parts all the time if they are just replacing them (think tie rods).

I used my Dremel to cut a nut off of my tie rod end on my caravan. Took a while. Eye protection is definitely a good thing.

 

A dremel will turn this 5 minute project into afternoon pain in the a**.
Rent a sawzall or 4 in angle grinder.

Dave

 

How about a hack saw?