S10 Blazer Rear Shock Removal

[chevymotocross]

1991 s10 blazer 4x4. I was going to attempt replacing the completely rotted rear shocks on this blazer, but before attempting I realized removing them is almost impossible.

First, you can't get a socket, or wrench, on the upper nuts. The shock itself blocks a socket from going on straight. No room for a wrench. Second, you have to back it up, preventing the upper bolts from spinning while removing the nuts. Once again, no room for wrenches up there.

The upper bolts/nuts are what's holding me back from even attempting this job. It's just an old plow vehicle, but I'm going to be using it as a daily driver for some time while I work on my C10. I was able to replace the front shocks, would be nice to replace the rears.

Any recommendations on the rear shock removal.... particularly the upper mounting bolts?

[Tink]

It has been a while but I'm thinking we did it as a two person job... one to hold a box end wrench on top, the other to use the socket wrench/air tool below.

[v8blaze]

i know this is kinda old, but a socket with a long extension will fit from the bottom, and you can get an open end through the wheel well area to the top. Its a pain no matter what and breaking them loose the first time will suck. I highly suggest wearing some safety glasses or something of the sort. THe first time i did it on mine it took me forever and a good bit of swearing, the second time it was just annoying but easily accomplishment