Here's a general outline. Specific steps might vary slightly depending on whether you're working on the front or rear shocks. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Buick Roadmaster for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely essential for safety.
* Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Sockets and Wrenches: Various sizes, likely including metric. Check your repair manual.
* Shock Compressor (Highly Recommended): Makes compressing the spring much safer and easier. Trying to do it without one is risky.
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster or similar): To loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque Wrench: To tighten bolts to the proper specifications (crucial).
* Ratcheting Wrench: Helpful for accessing tight spaces.
* Wrench for shock mount bolts (size will vary): Check your repair manual for the appropriate size.
General Steps (for both front and rear, but specifics vary):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise the Vehicle: Safely lift the vehicle using the jack at the appropriate jacking points (consult your repair manual). Securely place jack stands under the vehicle's frame, never rely solely on the jack.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Locate the Shock Absorber: Identify the shock absorber and its mounting points.
5. Disconnect the Shock: This involves removing bolts and potentially disconnecting a sway bar link (depending on location). Penetrating oil may be needed to loosen rusted bolts. Pay close attention to how everything is connected so you can put it back together correctly.
6. Compress the Spring (if applicable): For many vehicles, you'll need to compress the spring to remove the shock. A shock compressor is highly recommended here to avoid injury.
7. Remove the Old Shock: Once the bolts and spring (if applicable) are loosened, carefully remove the old shock absorber.
8. Install the New Shock: Install the new shock absorber in the reverse order of removal, ensuring everything aligns correctly.
9. Reconnect Everything: Reconnect any sway bar links or other components.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
11. Torque Specifications: Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. This prevents damage and ensures safety.
12. Reinstall the Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
13. Lower the Vehicle Completely: Once everything is secure, lower the vehicle fully.
14. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or handling issues.
Important Considerations:
* Front vs. Rear Shocks: The procedure will differ slightly between front and rear shocks. The front may involve disconnecting brake lines or sway bar links. The rear might require dealing with leaf springs or other suspension components.
* Spring Compressors: These are essential for safety when dealing with compressed springs. Attempting to compress springs without the proper tools is extremely dangerous.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1995 Buick Roadmaster is invaluable. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other crucial information.
This is a general guide. Improper installation can lead to dangerous situations. If you're not comfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Safety should always be your top priority.
