This weekend I will like to replace the rear shocks on my 380 SEC. Before getting started I'll like to like to know if there are any special tools I'll need? Are there any instructions that anyone can send me? Are there any short cuts to replacing them?

Thanks in advance for everyone's help!

no special tools. on the bottom bolts on some models the fasteners get rusty and are easy to break off, so be careful to soak them with pb blaster or wd40 generously before attempting to unfasten. then be cautious in the removal. start by wiggling the bolt head back and forth gently and gradually applying more pressure. if you feel the bolt giving and not the threads, let it be and soak some more.

after it is unfastened, it will come down thru the lower arm. the car or its suspension arm may need to be lifted to get it out. use normal precautions about jacking the car and put your spare under the car as close as is comfortable to the place you are working in case the jack should slip.

to get the top you must remove the back seat. i have never done this on an sec even though i own one, but if it is like a sedan, you must remove the seat first. there will be some kind of a latch mechanism on the lower front edge of the bottom which you can pull then the seat lifts up and out. then there will be fasteners (again if it is like the sedan and it prob will be) along the bottom edge of the back and inside the arm rest pocket. when the fasteners are off the back will lift straight up. at the tops of the shocks will be a plastic plug about 2.5" d. pry that out and you will see the top of the shock stud and nut.

when installing pay attention to the rubber parts and the discs. there is a right way to install all of them. your shock box should tell the tale. looking at what is in there will work if it hasnt been replaced and installed incorrectly before. the rubber parts need to be compressed some on the installation.

it is not too hard. getting the seat out is the most time consuming thing. with any luck you will be done in two hours or so.

be careful with the bottom bolts.

good luck

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

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