Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the car.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Wrench(es) or sockets: Size will depend on the shock mounting bolts. Probably 9/16" or ½" but verify.
* Ratchet and extensions: To reach the bolts easily.
* Pliers or a shock compressor (recommended): To compress the shock to make installation easier. A compressor is strongly recommended to avoid injury.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification (found in your repair manual).
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Raise the rear of the car using a jack and securely support it with jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheels: Remove the wheels from the rear axle.
3. Locate the Shocks: The shocks are typically mounted on the rear axle housing and the car's body.
4. Remove the Old Shocks:
* Top Mount: Use the appropriate wrench to remove the nuts or bolts securing the top of the shock to the car's body. Penetrating oil may be necessary if the bolts are seized.
* Bottom Mount: Similarly, remove the nuts or bolts securing the bottom of the shock to the axle. Again, penetrating oil may help.
5. Compress the New Shocks (Highly Recommended): Using a shock compressor, compress the new shocks to approximately the same length as the old shocks. This makes installation significantly easier. Do not attempt this without a compressor; the springs can cause serious injury.
6. Install the New Shocks:
* Bottom Mount: Align the bottom mount of the new shock with the axle and install the bolts. Tighten them slightly.
* Top Mount: Align the top mount of the shock with its mounting point on the car's body and install the bolts. Tighten them slightly.
7. Tighten the Bolts: Using a torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This information is *critical* and is found in your repair manual. Over-tightening can damage the threads or the shock itself, while under-tightening can lead to loose shocks.
8. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car using the jack.
9. Replace the Wheels: Reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts.
10. Test: After lowering the car completely, gently bounce each corner of the car to ensure the shocks are properly installed and functioning.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual for your '63 Ford Falcon is invaluable. It will provide precise torque specifications, diagrams, and other crucial information.
* Shock Type: Make sure you are using the correct replacement shocks for your Falcon. The wrong shocks can affect handling and ride quality.
* Rust: Older cars often have rusty bolts. Penetrating oil and patience are your friends. If bolts break, you might need to drill them out.
* Safety: Always prioritize safety. Use jack stands, chocks, and appropriate safety gear.
This guide provides a general overview. If you are uncomfortable performing this task, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can compromise safety and vehicle handling.
