Advice for removing rusty suspension bolts
09-04-2017, 08:03 PM
#31
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Sometimes you can just muscle them out. However, you run a much higher risk of breaking the welded nuts free that hold the bolts in. Then the job gets a little more tedious. I've seen videos though were people just pulled the old ones out, and put new ones in, no problem. Mine was the exact opposite of that. But if it worked out well for you, good deal, bonus.
09-05-2017, 09:15 AM
#32
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Model: Cherokee
Ended up ordering some new shackles online, but I don't think it comes with the bolts. However, my local Ace Hardware tends to have these types and sizes of bolts.
09-09-2017, 08:17 PM
#33
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I just installed a 3" rough country lift yesterday. I had many of the same problem you did plus some... a labor of love for me I guess. I replaced my shackles as well with a set of Dormans which lucky for me came with new bolts from advanced auto. They were expensive $60 each but worth it. I paid $600 for the kit and didn't want to skimp on cheap eBay shackles, hopefully you though the same and skipped purchasing the el cheapo $20 eBay specials.
09-10-2017, 08:16 AM
#34
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Year: 1998 Classic (I'll get it running soon....) and 02 Grand
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Do you know the difference in bolt grades? If not, don't buy them at Ace Hardware. Order parts online that are made specifically for this purpose.
09-10-2017, 03:41 PM
#35
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The suspension bolts on the Jeep are grade 10.9. The bolts I purchased from Ace hardware are also grade 10.9.
As for the shackle, it is aftermarket, but not a cheap eBay knockoff. From the reviews I read everyone says they are a good OEM replacement.
I have everything completed except the g******n rear shocks. I stripped the heads of the upper bolts and broke off the threads on the lower mount on both sides. I need to get my air hammer out and bust the upper bolts through. I got the Rough Country Rear Bar Pin Flag Nut kit to replace the upper bolts. For the lower ones I plan to drill through and thread it for a bolt to go in and hold it to the lower mount. So close!
As for the shackle, it is aftermarket, but not a cheap eBay knockoff. From the reviews I read everyone says they are a good OEM replacement.
I have everything completed except the g******n rear shocks. I stripped the heads of the upper bolts and broke off the threads on the lower mount on both sides. I need to get my air hammer out and bust the upper bolts through. I got the Rough Country Rear Bar Pin Flag Nut kit to replace the upper bolts. For the lower ones I plan to drill through and thread it for a bolt to go in and hold it to the lower mount. So close!
10-16-2017, 09:51 AM
#36
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I just wanted to post a quick update on this. I managed to get the aftermarket bar pins in for the upper shock mounts in the rear. I replaced the rear shackle on the driver's side and all bolts are torqued and if replaced, replaced with grade 10.9 bolts. I had a local shop weld on new studs for the lower shock mounts in the back, so those are done as well. The Jeep drives pretty good. The suspension is pretty stiff and its a bit bouncy. I got an alignment done too so the steering is pretty straight. There is a slight drivetrain vibration, but that's another story. In any case, thanks all for the help!