Installing New Rear Shocks on a 1971

[1971SE440]

I just changed the front shocks from worn out Monroe's to KYB's with no problems. Any tips on changing the rear shocks on a 1971. Does it matter if you do the top or bottom bolts first. It looks like it may be hard to get the top bolt on the new shock. Not a lot of room. Any ideas?

[A383Wing]

raise rear end, put jack stands on frame, lower rear axle to gain clearance to top shock bolts...you will need to keep floor jack under third member to raise it a bit to get upper & lower bolts out

the top bolts & nuts are a pain-in-the-ass

[71bee]

I don't remember how I did it, but I do remember it being a pain in my ass! hope them KYB's hold up for a few more years. 

[71charger_fan]

I went with KYBs all around on mine. Put anti-seize on all those fasteners and you'll be glad you did a few years down the road.

[Nacho-RT74]

I never have had any problem to remove the top bolt. Rachet and wrench

[RD]

soak them in PB blaster.  you may need to heat them based upon the amount of rust in that area.  when replacing my 73 Charger's shocks for the first time since the 70's, i actually broke the bolts trying to loosen the nuts.

[1971SE440]

Thanks for the info. Will start on the rears Saturday morning. I have taken the car out with the KYB's on the front and what a difference they make over the old Monroe's. It was the best $70 bucks I ever spent on the Charger.

[daves68]

All b body Mopars have the no-access top bolt on the rear shocks. Sometimes soaking them works, more often they end up being cut off. I use a sawsall and get it carefully between the shock and brace. The new ones get a1/2 stainless steel bolt.  You will never have removal problems again. Marinas may even have some lying around as the size you need is exactly the same as the ones used to mount v-4 and v-6 outboards to the boat transom.
Dave

[FLG]

Ive had good luck...top bolt is a bit of a pain but its not hard at all  didnt break either