Hello, so I'm trying to freshen up an 85 4runner I recently purchased and I figured I'd put new shocks on while I'm at it. The lower bolt is not a problem. I'm struggling to get the top nut off. Any tips on how to keep the shock from spinning so I can loosen the nut...or can I just get the sawzall out?

 

No reason not to hack it off. Probably quickest.

 

I most often don`t even try Just get the Grinder and a Cutting Disc.

I have not used a Sawzall in years

 

Some shocks use a hex key on top of the shaft while others are just two flats that you can use a crescent wrench to hold the shaft while you back off the nut. To save your knuckles though a grinder would work best. Just make sure the side you're removing is jacked up safely.

 

I've had some luck in the past taking the bottom bolt out and jerking out on the bottom of the shock, lots of times the top of the shaft will snap off and no wrench or saw needed. just watch your knuckles and wear safety glasses!

 

you can probably grab below the bushing with a small pair of vice grips. have the truck on the ground when you do it or just make sure the shock isn't under tension because then it may be more difficult to loosen the top nut.

 

Use a large mouthed adjustable locking vice-grip and place it around the top shock body. As you turn the removal nut... the vice-grips will spin around until it lodges against the inner fender well. Once it makes solid contact you can use lotsa torque on the socket/wrench and bust it loose. Soak the nut with some PB Blaster and let it sit for awhile first.

 

I just cut them off, worked great...Thanks

 

Not long ago I replaced my 85's shocks with kyb's. The original factory shocks had no more gas and didn't extend on their own anymore - time to go!

Replace the steering damper while you're down there if it's the original. The cheap Monroe one works good.