i have a 2007 Tahoe with 70K on it. Front shocks feel worn out, as I get terrible shaking in the front end over bumps, especially when I am towing. It feels like the wheels are bouncing on the road. I am very mechanically inclined. What's involved in changing the shocks myself, and has Chevy made any upgrades to the stock shock. I've had this problem since I put about 30K on the truck. It originall rode smoothly. I had the dealer check out the front end, and a private shop, as well. Both said that everything looks good, so I assume it's shocks. I don't want to put the same units in, if they are only going to last 30K. Any thoughts ?? Thank you, Jay B Medfield, Massachusetts
Hi, do you have a coil spring over the shock or just the shock alone? They have both depending on what series the truck is. 1500, 2500 etc. Let me know and i can give you the procedure. Thanks, Eric
It's an '07 Tahoe, the new series. There are no 1500/2500, etc. Mine is an LT. Not sure what the configuration is, as it isn't home with me right now. I don't think it uses torsion bars like the previous series.
Here are the two procedures depending on the setup you have.
Callout
Component Name
1
Shock Absorber Module Bolt (Qty: 2)
Notice: Do not use air powered tools in order to disassemble or assemble any vehicle component. Bolt torques are vital to diagnosis. You can detect bolt torques only when using hand tools. Improper bolt torques can contribute to vehicle repair problems.
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.
Tighten50 N·m (37 lb ft)
2
Shock Absorber Module Nut (Qty: 3)
3
Shock Absorber Module
Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
Shock Absorber Retaining Nut
TipSupport the lower control arm with a safety stand.
Tighten24 N·m (17 lb ft)
Insulator (Qty: 2)
Tip
Retaining Nut
Tighten80 N·m (59 lb ft)
4
Mounting Bolt
5
Shock Absorber
TipIf replacing the shock absorber, refer Shock Absorber Disposal for the proper disposal procedure.
If you end up having the type with the coil spring this may be your problem and you may want to consider replacing the coils. Let me know if i can help you further. Please click on accept. Thanks, Eric
When I click on the "shock absorber /spring replacement " link, it tells me I don't have access. Other than the pictires, this isn't much help. If I have the coil over variety, which I believe I do, do i need to compress the spring to get it back in? Will I need an alignment if I remove the tie rod end?
Sorry about the links not working, it happens sometimes, Yes you will have to compress the spring to remove the shock
Shock, Shock Component, and/or Spring Replacement
CH-48845 Spring Compressor
Removal Procedure
Important: Use only hand tools to perform the following service procedure.
Caution: Use only the CH-48845 Spring Compressor when servicing suspension components on this vehicle. Other tools may not be strong enough for the springs on this vehicle and you could be injured if you do not use Special Tool CH-48845. Failure to do so could result in serious personal injury.
Important: For vehicles equipped with electronic suspension control, ensure that the upper retaining bracket of the CH-48845 is adjusted properly so that it DOES NOT damage the front suspension mount.
Important: DO NOT re-use the shock absorber nut, discard and replace with new ONLY.
Installation Procedure
Important: The inboard strut mounting studs are spaced closer together than the outboard stud. The outboard stud should be facing toward the outside (closest to the technician proper alignment.
Tighten For vehicles equipped with electronic suspension, tighten the shock absorber nut to 80 N·m (59 lb ft).
Tighten For vehicles equipped with electronic suspension, tighten the electrical connector to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).
Tighten For vehicles without electronic suspension, tighten the shock absorber nut to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).
© 2009 General Motors Corporation. All rights reserved.
I would have the alignment checked when you are done.Thanks, Eric