Here's a general outline. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon for detailed instructions and torque specifications. This is a general guide and may vary slightly depending on your specific vehicle's condition.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Crucial for safely lifting the vehicle. 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: Various sizes, likely including metric.
* Ratcheting wrenches: For easier access in tight spaces.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To loosen rusted bolts.
* Shock compressor (highly recommended): Makes compressing the shock spring much safer and easier. Some people attempt this without one, but it's very risky.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Wrench for the shock mounting bolts (likely 15mm or 18mm): Check your vehicle for exact size.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself from dirt, grease, and potential injury.
Procedure (General Steps – Consult Your Repair Manual for Specifics):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake firmly. Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that remain on the ground. Jack up the vehicle using the designated jack points (consult your owner's manual). Securely support the vehicle with jack stands under the frame, not the suspension components.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Access the Shock: Locate the shock absorber. You'll see the top and bottom mounting points. They are usually bolted to the chassis and the control arm/axle.
4. Disconnect the Shock: Apply penetrating oil to the bolts connecting the shock to the vehicle. Use the appropriate wrenches to carefully remove the top and bottom mounting bolts. This is often the most difficult part due to rust and tight spaces.
5. Compress the Spring (Use a Shock Compressor): Using a shock compressor, carefully compress the shock spring to relieve pressure and allow for easier removal of the shock. Never attempt this without a compressor; it is extremely dangerous.
6. Remove the Old Shock: Once the bolts are removed and the spring compressed, carefully remove the old shock absorber.
7. Install the New Shock: Compress the new shock absorber (using the compressor) to roughly the same length as the old one. Carefully install the new shock into place, ensuring it aligns correctly with the mounting points.
8. Secure the New Shock: Tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench. Consult your repair manual for the correct torque values.
9. Release the Spring Compressor: Carefully release the pressure on the spring compressor. Ensure the spring is seated properly before removing the compressor.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack. Remove the jack stands.
12. Repeat on the Other Side: Repeat the process for the other side of the vehicle.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: Older vehicles are prone to rusted bolts. Apply penetrating oil liberally and allow it time to work before attempting to remove the bolts. If a bolt breaks, you may need specialized tools to remove it.
* Spring Pressure: Never work under a spring that's not properly compressed. The consequences can be severe injury.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench and consult your repair manual for the proper torque settings for all bolts. Over-tightening can damage components, while under-tightening can lead to loose parts.
* Repair Manual: This guide provides a general overview. A repair manual specific to your vehicle is essential for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
This job is challenging even for experienced mechanics. If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can lead to dangerous driving conditions and vehicle damage.
