How to Replace the Front Shocks on a 2003 Chevy S-10

The shock absorbers are necessary for maintaining the safety of a car's suspension and ensuring a smooth ride. The front shocks on the Chevy S-10 are separate from the coil spring and are similar to the rear shocks. This makes them simpler to remove and replace. There are slight differences between the two-wheel and four-wheel-drive models of the Chevy S-10. You must change both front shocks together to maintain even stability on the truck's front suspension.

Instructions

1

Clamp the upper stem of the shock with one wrench and remove the upper mounting nut with a second wrench. Remove the metal washer retainer and the rubber grommet.

2

Raise the truck's front end and support it on jack stands. Remove both front wheels.

3

Collapse the shock absorber if this is a four-wheel-drive Chevy S10.

4

Remove the lower fasteners from the shock absorber, working underneath the truck. Then, remove the shock from the lower control arm. Remove the metal and rubber retainers from the shock's lower rod.

5

Install the retainers onto the lower rod of the replacement shock -- assuming they are still in good condition -- and connect the shock to the lower control arm. Tighten the bolts to 22 foot-pounds (2WD), or tighten the nut to 54 foot-pounds (4WD).

6

Raise the shock into position (4WD) and connect the upper retainers. Install the upper nut without tightening it all the way yet.

7

Reconnect the wheels and lower the truck off the jack stands after changing both shocks.

8

Tighten the upper shock nuts to 106 inch-pounds (2WD) or 54 foot-pounds (4WD).