Questions about changing springs/shocks.

[JTR 97 Z71]

Hello,

 

I am about to replace my springs and shocks on my truck (97 k1500 ext. cab z71). I have never changed leaf springs before, how hard is it? Do I need any special tools? What's the correct process? -Also, anything else I should know of that's a particular PITA or anything changing suspention on these trucks? I have done full suspentions on F+Y-bodies, and shocks on many other vehicles, but never messed with leaf springs. . . . BTW, I will be using factory replacement parts. I am swapping them out due to 135k miles and hauling TONS of weight. . . plus a lot of off-road/gravel road driving. . . .

 

Thanks,

-Justin

 

P.S. Where's the best place to buy my new parts? I have used paceparts.com and gmpartsdirect.com before, and will prob. use one of them.

[fossil]

Real easy, no special tools needed. If you're mechanically inclined you should be able to do in a few hours. Get new U bolts though as you will probably have to cut them off with a torch if they are seized due to rust.

[JTR 97 Z71]

Thanks, I appreciate it! I'll order some new U-bolts too.

 

I haven't had a chance to look at the truck in a year or so. . . but I'm thinking I simly need to lift the rear end off the ground, supporting it under the frame so the springs will not be under pressure, and I can just swap them out without having to compress the springs with any sort of tool, correct?

 

-Justin