I have a full set of brand new Bilstein HD shocks I am wanting to install on my 4.7 2003 1500 RC myself. I didn't see a FAQ/DIY thread anyone else has done for replacing shocks. Does anyone have any tips? I have the service manual, but didn't know if I needed certain parts/materials to ease installation. I know sometimes you should replace hardware when adding aftermarket parts, so I'd like to have everything I need before I start. Thanks in advance!

 

The only thing I've heard of is people replacing the shock mount bolts with new and higher grade ones. Also some people spray them with WD40 or PB so they are easier to remove later on.

 

Well it was pretty easy to swap out, and the new shocks came with new hardware. I got them swapped out without too many issues.

What was kind of tricky was getting the top bolt for the front shock properly tightened. I searched around online and read that the top bolt doesn't need to be torqued, just really tight. That's good because my front Bilsteins don't have anything to grip to prevent the entire rod from turning besides the hole at the end of it for inserting an allen wrench; but that would prevent to ability to use a normal socket.

So it turned out my 2003 did have factory shocks on it and the ride/handling after the upgrade is definitely 100x improved.