Monroe-sensa-trac load adjusting shocks questions - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

1971ChevyTruck · 02-22-2009, 12:13 PM

I bought this set of shocks for my 71 stepside. The problem is that they are fully extended when I got them. What is the trick to install them?? I was thinking about using a floor jack to compress them. Any ideas?? Anyone ever used them?? I was also wondering if the springs would clear the axle. I had them hanging off of the top bolt and it looks like it will be really close.

Longhorn Man · 02-22-2009, 12:34 PM

you could always unbolt the panhard bar (unless it is on there permanatly due to Illinois salt crews) and lower the rear to where they reach the shocks (uppers bolted on as you said).

If you are useing those as overload springs, as in planning on hauling a bunch or weight, be warned that they upper shock mounts have been known to rip off from this kind of add on.

LONGHAIR · 02-22-2009, 12:48 PM

Like Andy said, it is easier and safer to stretch the suspension than to try to compress the shock.
Also to repeat, shock mounts were not designed to support any weight, so adding springs to them w/o reinforcing the mounts can lead to failure.

**Boog** · 02-22-2009, 01:09 PM

Maybe some helper bags might be a better choice.

1971ChevyTruck · 02-22-2009, 02:06 PM

I'm not going to be hauling or anything. I just wanted to stiffen up the rear of the truck a little. Heck I might only drive this once a week if I'm lucky. Plus I though they look cool. Thats the main reason I went with them. lol

02-22-2009, 12:13 PM	#1
1971ChevyTruck Registered User Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Illinois Posts: 1,006	Monroe-sensa-trac load adjusting shocks questions I bought this set of shocks for my 71 stepside. The problem is that they are fully extended when I got them. What is the trick to install them?? I was thinking about using a floor jack to compress them. Any ideas?? Anyone ever used them?? I was also wondering if the springs would clear the axle. I had them hanging off of the top bolt and it looks like it will be really close. Attached Images

02-22-2009, 12:34 PM	#2
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	Re: Monroe-sensa-trac load adjusting shocks questions you could always unbolt the panhard bar (unless it is on there permanatly due to Illinois salt crews) and lower the rear to where they reach the shocks (uppers bolted on as you said). If you are useing those as overload springs, as in planning on hauling a bunch or weight, be warned that they upper shock mounts have been known to rip off from this kind of add on.

02-22-2009, 01:09 PM	#4
Boog laying low Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Searcy, Ark. USA Posts: 13,139	Re: Monroe-sensa-trac load adjusting shocks questions Maybe some helper bags might be a better choice. __________________ Boog 69 Chevy stepside, 358/T350, 4.11 posi, 4.5/4 drop, rallys, poboy driver primer is finer 91 Chevy sportside, Tahoe, Yukon & GMC Crewcab All GM..'nuff said. I stand for the flag and kneel at the cross

02-22-2009, 02:06 PM	#5
1971ChevyTruck Registered User Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Illinois Posts: 1,006	Re: Monroe-sensa-trac load adjusting shocks questions I'm not going to be hauling or anything. I just wanted to stiffen up the rear of the truck a little. Heck I might only drive this once a week if I'm lucky. Plus I though they look cool. Thats the main reason I went with them. lol



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