The shocks on your Dodge 3500 should be replaced every 75,000 miles. There are four shocks on your Dodge--one at each corner. They are connected from the frame to the axle. Shocks cushion bumps in the road for a smooth ride inside the cab. Worn shocks, however, will cause the vehicle to bounce when it encounters a bump. Purchase your replacement shocks from any auto parts store. You will need to know the correct year of your vehicle to ensure you purchase the proper shocks.
Open the hood by pulling the release lever located inside the cab.
Locate the shock towers on each side of the vehicle. They are located inside the engine compartment on each fender well. The shock tower is attached to the fender with three bolts. The nut that secures the shock to the tower is directly on top.
Remove the nut that secures the shock to the tower with a ratchet and 3/4-inch socket. Remove the three nuts that secure the shock tower to the fender with a ratchet and 12-mm socket. Remove the shock tower from the vehicle.
Remove the lower shock retaining nut at the axle with a ratchet and 13/16-inch socket.
Remove the shock from the vehicle by pulling it out of the coil spring, into the engine compartment.
Insert the new shock by lowering it into the coil spring from the engine compartment. Install the shock tower on top of the shock. Install the nuts that secure the shock tower in position and tighten them with a ratchet and a 12-mm socket. Secure the top of the shock with the 3/4-inch nut and tighten it with a ratchet and socket.
Align the lower shock mounting hole with the brackets so that the bolt can be installed. Thread the nut onto the opposite side of the bolt and tighten it with a ratchet and 13/16-inch socket.
Repeat these steps on the opposite side of the vehicle.
Locate the mounting bolts that secure the rear shocks in position. Two bolts--one on the top and one on the bottom--hold these shocks. Remove these bolts with a ratchet and a 13/16-inch socket. The nut on the opposite side is attached to the frame so there is no need to use an additional wrench on the nut.
Remove the shock from the vehicle.
Insert the new shock into the mounting brackets. Align the shock mounting holes and install the bolts. Tighten the bolts with a ratchet and a 13/16-inch socket.
Repeat these steps on the opposite rear shock.
