The Chevrolet Suburban uses shock absorbers to cushion the suspension from harsh road conditions. These shocks use pressurized gas to dampen the jolts of the suspension to the body, and can wear out rather quickly. Replacement should take the average backyard mechanic about twenty minutes per shock.
Remove the lower shock absorber mount nut by turning it counterclockwise. Do not remove the shock eyelet from the bolt; just take the nut off.
Remove the top mount bolt and nut by holding the bolt head with a socket wrench while turning the nut counterclockwise. Remove the nut and slide the bolt from the mount and eyelet.
Slide the bottom shock eyelet from the bolt and maneuver the unit from the Suburban. Clean both mounts and the bolt hardware with some spray lube and a wipe with a lint-free cloth.
Position the new shock absorber in the top mount and slide the bolt through the eyelet. Secure the nut and tighten it clockwise, holding the bolt head as before.
Cut the keeper strap on the shock body that keeps it compressed during shipment. As it expands, slide the bottom eyelet over the bottom mount bolt. If the shock misses the bolt and decompresses fully, then compress it by hand and slide the shock onto the bolt. Secure the nut by turning it clockwise tightly.
Repeat the procedure on the remaining shocks.
