Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set (metric): You'll need various sizes, likely including ones for the shock mounting bolts and nuts.
* Ratchet and extensions: To reach those hard-to-access bolts.
* Wrench (possibly open-ended or box-end): Depending on the bolt access.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification – this prevents damage to components.
* Shock compressor (highly recommended): Makes compressing the shock spring much safer and easier. Trying to do this without one is dangerous.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from injury.
Steps (General Outline):
1. Safety First: Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise and Secure: Jack up the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. Support the car at the appropriate jack points (consult your repair manual).
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the wheel using the lug wrench.
4. Access the Shock: Locate the shock absorber. You'll likely need to remove some components to access the shock's mounting points (this is where a repair manual is vital). This might include unbolting brake calipers (support them with wire or a hanger to avoid stretching brake lines), disconnecting sway bar links, and possibly removing other suspension components.
5. Compress the Spring (Use a Shock Compressor!): Using a shock compressor, carefully compress the spring to relieve pressure on the shock mounting bolts. This is crucial for safety.
6. Remove the Old Shock: Unscrew and remove the bolts securing the old shock absorber to both the chassis and the control arm or knuckle. Penetrating oil may be necessary.
7. Install the New Shock: Install the new shock absorber, ensuring it's properly seated. Line up the mounting points and install the bolts, tightening them slightly.
8. Release the Spring (Slowly!): Carefully release the spring pressure using the shock compressor.
9. Tighten Bolts: Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
10. Reassemble: Reinstall any components you removed to access the shock (sway bar links, brake calipers, etc.).
11. Lower and Check: Lower the vehicle slowly. Check that everything is securely attached and that the shock is functioning properly (no binding or unusual noises).
12. Torque Check: Do a final torque check on all bolts.
13. Reinstall Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix GT is indispensable. It will show you exactly what to do, where everything is located, and the correct torque specifications.
* Parts: Ensure you buy the correct shocks for your vehicle. The wrong shocks can lead to handling problems and potential damage.
* Safety: This is a potentially dangerous job. If you're not comfortable working on your car, take it to a qualified mechanic.
This guide provides a general overview. Always consult a repair manual and prioritize safety throughout the process. Improper installation can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
