starlifter f/e

Greetings fellow Acurites! I am trying to pick out who will r&r the shocks/springs (not coil-overs) on my 03 TL-S, and would love to hear how many shop hours that would take a journey tech to do that. The local stealership wants $625.00 + alignment for labor only

HairyMonkey019

iTrader: (7)

If I were to install coilovers all over again on my car it would probably take me about 2.5hrs with adjustments. So as a guess I'll say 2-3 hrs since you have springs and shocks. It all depends how experienced the guys are with the car.

starlifter f/e

Only 2-3? That's not bad at all! I guess I WON'T be using THAT stealership Thanks, Monk

HairyMonkey019

iTrader: (7)

Like I said, it all depends on how experienced they are and how many guys work on it. It could take longer if they are new to the car. As for the alignment, don't get one until your shocks and springs settle in, that way you wont have to realign them after. Give it a week and try not to drive it too much until the alignment.

I've never done a shock and spring install, only a coilover install which was an easy swap.

3.2TLc

Hey Starlifter f/e......are you replacing the springs along with the shocks, or are you going to reuse the original spring on the new shock ?

The reason that I ask....is that labor time can be cut in half if you are having a pre-assembled "Quick Struts" complete with shock, spring and top hat. Once the old strut assembly is removed, the new unit is simply bolted back in place. Less than 2 hours labor at any good mechanic's shop. Check Rock Auto for comparing prices on available parts.

starlifter f/e

Thank you for the suggestion. Unfortunately, Monroe does not make quick struts for the 2003 TL-S. Why are springs replaced anyway? Do they wear out or fail somehow? Since I am not interested in lowering the car at all, should I just reuse the old springs on some new shocks? The most important things to me are: 1) Handling, 2) Safety/reliability, 3) Ride comfort

fsttyms1

there is no reason not to reuse your stock springs, just get a new set of decent shocks. Any competent shop could do it in 2 hours tops. I can do it in my driveway in under an hour now. This car is very easy to work on.

starlifter f/e

Excellent! I will reuse the springs. By the way, I digg your avatar. Was the General Lee a 440, 426, 383, or 318?

fsttyms1

????? what ever they used for the movie