Yes, that's the trick. It's been a long time since I replaced 123 shocks.

Disconnect the top first when removing, and connect it last when reinstalling. With stiff gas shocks it can be a challenge. There is wire holding the shocks compressed for shipping. Get the bottom bolts both tight before clipping the wire, then be ready to guide the stud into place as soon as you clip the wire. If you don't hit the mount, you will have to muscle them closed a little to jockey them into place.

Good luck,