Repair 7

How to Upgrade the Rear Shocks on a Nissan Frontier XE

The rear shocks on a Nissan Frontier XE are important for the riding conditions of the vehicle as well as its towing capabilities. Shocks are typically replaced every 60,000 miles or when the ride becomes soggy or bouncy. If the shocks show grease or oil rubs on the exterior of the control tube, its probably time to replace them with some new ones.

Instructions

1

Block the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling when lifted. Use the ratchet wrench and lug socket to break loose the lugs on both rear wheels. Raise the vehicle up using the hydraulic lift. Place the jack stands under structure points, then lower the lift until the weight of the vehicle is distributed equally among the jack stands and hydraulic lift.

2

Remove the lugs and place them into the wheel to ensure they arent misplaced. Push the wheels under the vehicle for extra security. Locate the the upper and lower shock bolts and spray them liberally with WD-40 to loosen the nuts.

3

Use the 1/2 in. ratchet and the correct sized deep socket to break loose the top shock arm nut. Remove the bottom shock arm nut entirely. Return to the top nut and attempt to remove the nut using just the ratchet. Use the vise grips to secure the shock if the nut spins endlessly. Pull the entire shock down and remove from the arm mounts. Installation is reverse of removal.