Need Help on Shock & Spring install --have already searched!

[mcintosh816]

OK I have searched extensively not only here but also on DSM Talk as well (yes I checked VFAQ) but cant find the answer to my question.

Im installing Tokico Illuminas and Eibach Pro Springs on my 98 GSX. I have never worked on a vehicles suspension so I lack even the most basic of experience here. I do have my chiltons handy though.

I have peiced together the first shock/spring assembly and am now to the point where I am supposed to tighten down the top shock nut to Tokico torque specs....... Heres the problem, when I attempt to tighten it, the whole piston of the shock spins so I cant get the nut to tighten to spec.

Can anyone here tell me what Im missing or how Im supposed to get this freakin thing to tighten?? Any help is greatly appreciated Thanks!

 

[mcintosh816]

anyone??

 

[gregalmighty]

Theres a little section of the threads that are cut out of where the top nut goes. You need a really small open end wrench to hold the shocks piston still while you torque the top nut. I want to say it was an 8mm but its been a while so I can't remember for sure. Don't use pliers and be careful not to chew up the threads though.

I needed spacers in the front shocks. The top nut wouldn't thread down far enough for it to torque down and hold the shock in place, I used about 6 washers on each side and it worked. You may run into this to but I was working on a 95 FWD so yours may be different.

Hope this helps.

 

[mcintosh816]

Theres a little section of the threads that are cut out of where the top nut goes. You need a really small open end wrench to hold the shocks piston still while you torque the top nut. I want to say it was an 8mm but its been a while so I can't remember for sure. Don't use pliers and be careful not to chew up the threads though.

I needed spacers in the front shocks. The top nut wouldn't thread down far enough for it to torque down and hold the shock in place, I used about 6 washers on each side and it worked. You may run into this to but I was working on a 95 FWD so yours may be different.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the info! I was starting to wonder if I have to go ahead and put them on the car and use the pressure of the weight to hold them in place to tighten the nuts. Ill have to give your method a shot.

I ran into a roadblock anyways as I found the dealer shipped me some of the wrong parts for the rear suspension so I had to put my whole install on hold for the time being.

 

[DGajre777]

I have the same setup on my car. I put the nut on top to hold the the shock/spring assembly in place and then installed it in the car. One it was in the car, the weight of the car will compress it and allow you to tighten it.

While you are at it, check the condition of your isolators and replace them if needed. All of mine were gone!