🔧 Shock Absorbers - Replacement

This procedure covers the rear shock absorbers on your Silverado. Rear shocks on this truck are straightforward to replace, but the axle must be safely supported so the suspension does not bind while you remove the bolts.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on level ground and chock the front wheels.
• Support the truck with jack stands before removing any shock bolts.
• Support the rear axle with a floor jack so it does not drop suddenly.
• Keep hands clear when the shock is unbolted. The axle can move.
• No battery disconnect is required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Wheel chocks
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves
• 15mm socket
• 18mm socket
• Ratchet
• Breaker bar
• Torque wrench
• Penetrating oil
• Paint marker

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear shock absorber - Qty: 2
• Rear shock mounting hardware kit - Qty: 1 set

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground.
• Set the parking brake.
• Chock the front wheels.
• Spray the upper and lower shock bolts with penetrating oil and let it soak.
• Replace shocks in pairs for even ride quality.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Lift and support the rear of the truck

• Use a floor jack under the rear axle and raise the truck.
• Place jack stands under the frame rails.
• Lower the truck onto the jack stands and leave the floor jack lightly supporting the axle.

Step 2: Remove the lower shock bolt

• Use an 18mm socket and ratchet to remove the lower shock bolt and nut.
• If the bolt is tight, use a breaker bar.
• Keep the axle supported so the shock is not under tension.

Step 3: Remove the upper shock bolt

• Use a 15mm socket and ratchet to remove the upper shock bolt.
• Pull the shock out from the wheel well.
• Mark bolt orientation before removal.

Step 4: Install the new shock absorber

• Position the new shock in place by hand.
• Install the upper bolt first using a 15mm socket.
• Start the lower bolt by hand using an 18mm socket.

Step 5: Torque the shock bolts

• Use a torque wrench with the correct socket sizes.
• Torque the upper and lower shock bolts to 103 Nm (76 ft-lbs).
• Make sure the shock bushings are seated evenly.

Step 6: Repeat on the other side

• Repeat the same steps for the opposite rear shock.
• Always replace shocks in pairs.

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✅ After Repair

• Lower the truck and remove the wheel chocks.
• Bounce the rear of the truck a few times to settle the suspension.
• Check both shock bolts again for proper tightness.
• Test drive slowly and listen for clunks or rattles.
• After 25-50 miles, recheck the mounting bolts.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $350-$650 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $120-$280 (parts only)

You Save: $230-$370 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.