Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Crucial for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set: Various sizes, including metric and possibly SAE, depending on your Blazer.
* Ratchet and extensions: To reach those hard-to-reach nuts and bolts.
* Wrench(es): Open-end and/or combination wrenches may be needed for certain fasteners.
* Shock compressor (highly recommended): Makes compressing the springs much safer and easier. Improperly compressing springs can lead to serious injury. If you don't have one, consider taking it to a professional.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* New shocks: Make sure you get the correct shocks for your Blazer's model and options (2WD or 4WD, load capacity, etc.).
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
Procedure (General Steps):
Front Shocks:
1. Safety First: Secure the Blazer with the parking brake engaged and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the front end and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Locate the Shock: Identify the shock absorber. It's usually a fairly large cylinder attached to the frame and the control arm/knuckle.
4. Disconnect the Shock: You'll likely need to remove a nut and bolt at both the top and bottom of the shock. Penetrating oil may be necessary. Some Blazers may have a mounting bolt at the top that is accessed from the engine bay.
5. Compress the Spring (if necessary): Depending on the design, you may need to compress the spring slightly to remove the shock. A shock compressor is strongly recommended here.
6. Remove the Old Shock: Carefully remove the old shock absorber.
7. Install the New Shock: Install the new shock in reverse order, making sure everything is aligned properly.
8. Reassemble: Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle.
9. Repeat: Repeat steps 1-8 for the other front shock.
Rear Shocks:
1. Safety First: Repeat step 1 from the front shock replacement. Jack up the rear end and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
3. Locate the Shock: Identify the rear shock absorber. It's usually attached to the axle and the frame.
4. Compress the Spring (highly recommended): This is even more critical with rear shocks due to the higher spring tension. Use a spring compressor. Failing to do so could lead to serious injury.
5. Disconnect the Shock: Disconnect the shock from the axle and frame. This will involve removing nuts and bolts. Use penetrating oil if needed.
6. Remove the Old Shock: Carefully remove the old shock.
7. Install the New Shock: Install the new shock, compressing the spring as needed. Ensure proper alignment.
8. Reassemble: Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle.
9. Repeat: Repeat steps 1-8 for the other rear shock.
Important Considerations:
* Torque Specifications: Always consult your repair manual for the proper torque specifications for all bolts and nuts. Over-tightening can damage components.
* Suspension Alignment: After replacing the shocks, it's highly recommended to have your vehicle's suspension alignment checked and adjusted by a professional. This ensures proper handling and tire wear.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this task, or lack the necessary tools and experience, take your Blazer to a qualified mechanic. This is a job that can be dangerous if not done correctly.
This guide provides a general overview. Specific steps and challenges may vary depending on your 1997 Chevy Blazer's configuration. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and diagrams. Safety should always be your top priority.
