The Chevrolet Venture minivan uses shock absorbers to cushion a bumpy road, dampening harsh suspension conditions. The shock absorber is a pressurized gas cylinder between the suspension and the body. The Venture uses front struts and rear shock absorbers, which have differing methods of removal. The shock can wear out and require replacement, which can take the average backyard mechanic about an hour to complete (30 minutes per shock).
Lift the Venture if the shocks are not easily accessible (because of debris or an uneven surface) by placing the jack stand onto a frame rail and pumping the lever until the wheel is in the air. Place a jack stand near the jack head for support. Remove the wheel if necessary.
Loosen the lower shock nut by turning it counterclockwise, but do not remove it completely.
Turn the upper shock mount screws counterclockwise, releasing the shock mount plate from the van body. The screws are vertical, holding the shock to an eyelet mounted plate. A long socket extension bar may be required.
Remove the lower shock mount nut, and slide the lower eyelet from the mount bolt. The shock should drop from the vehicle, and you can remove it.
Replace the shock with a new unit by positioning the top mount first and securing the two mount screws by turning them clockwise. Firmly tighten these hex head screws.
Cut the shock absorber's keeper strap, which will allow the shock to expand. As it expands, push the lower eyelet onto the lower mount bolt. If you miss the bolt, push firmly on the shock body to recompress it. Tighten the lower shock mount nut in a clockwise direction.
Remove the jack stand, replace the wheel and lower the van if applicable.
Repeat the process for the opposite-side shock.
