Replacing Front Shocks w/o Front Cowl Removal

[libertybellcdr]

I decided to replace my front shocks, but didn't want to remove the front cowl to do this. My buddy Superman51 had a great idea. He suggested that I try to access the top of the shocks by going through the key switch access panel. I tried it and it worked! It's a tight fit, but definitely worth it. I replaced both shocks without removing anything besides the 2 plastic push rivets in the key switch panel.

Also, I replaced them with the Monroe 31069. At O'Reillys they are ~$25 ea. Superman51 told me that there was one for $18 each at Autozone, but it was out of stock. I had O'Reillys cross-reference the 31069 and it's a great fit. I definitely notice the difference.

[todo_brane_ded]

Originally Posted by libertybellcdr

I decided to replace my front shocks, but didn't want to remove the front cowl to do this. My buddy Superman51 had a great idea. He suggested that I try to access the top of the shocks by going through the key switch access panel. I tried it and it worked! It's a tight fit, but definitely worth it. I replaced both shocks without removing anything besides the 2 plastic push rivets in the key switch panel.

Also, I replaced them with the Monroe 31069. At O'Reillys they are ~$25 ea. Superman51 told me that there was one for $18 each at Autozone, but it was out of stock. I had O'Reillys cross-reference the 31069 and it's a great fit. I definitely notice the difference.

Thanks for the info. I've bookmarked this thread......

[scottyb]

You could do that or you could just grab a 9/16th box end wrench and force your hand up between the mud guard and the cowl the nut is right there Nothing to replace..... and usually once you get the nut loose you can just hold the nut and turn the shock with your free hand.... piece of cake.

[Superman51]

Glad it worked out for you liberty . I know it made a drastic improvement to my front end. When I lifted the cart I didn’t even think about the shocks being almost 20 years old and it showed. They might as well not even been there. I have to give credit to Curly 33333 for the idea about the shocks. I never thanked him but here was his thread about alternatives for rear shocks http://www.buggiesgonewild.com/elect...placement.html. They fit the same for the front are a LOT cheaper than buying the $100 HD shocks and they ride great.

As far as going through the mud flap, I must have fat arms bc I could not reach the bolts without thinking I was about tear the flaps.

[scottyb]

My partner is 6-6 and 250. A stout man. IF he can do it anybody can.... beats working thru the key hole in my experience.

[libertybellcdr]

Originally Posted by scottyb

My partner is 6-6 and 250. A stout man. IF he can do it anybody can.... beats working thru the key hole in my experience.

your PARTNER????

I didn't know you played for the other team...

[scottyb]

Originally Posted by libertybellcdr

your PARTNER????

I didn't know you played for the other team...

WTF are you smoking?

[libertybellcdr]

LOL. I'm only going on what you said... ha ha.

[gornoman]

Business partner! Sheesh!

[scottyb]

Originally Posted by gornoman

Business partner! Sheesh!

You know where their minds are .... Liberty and Superman