- A new set of front shock absorbers
- Appropriate new shock absorber bushings/mounting hardware (usually included with the shock absorbers)
- A rubber mallet or hammer
- A crowbar or pry bar
- A wrench or socket set
- A flashlight
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- A shop manual for your specific vehicle
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Prepare the Vehicle:: Park your MGB on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Turn off the engine and let the vehicle cool completely. Engage the parking brake for safety.
2. Locate the Front Shock Absorbers: The front shock absorbers on a 1977 MGB are located in the front suspension system, just behind the front wheels. They are connected to the upper and lower control arms.
3. Remove the Wheel and Tire: Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels and use a jack and jack stands to safely raise the vehicle so you can remove the front wheels and tires.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use a wrench to loosen the brake caliper bolts and remove the brake caliper. Hang the caliper aside using a piece of wire.
5. Remove the Front Shock Absorbers: Once the brake caliper is removed, use a wrench or socket set to remove the upper and lower bolts that secure the shock absorber to the upper control arm and lower control arm. Be sure to support the weight of the shock absorber as you remove the bolts.
6. Remove the Old Shock Bushings: Use a pry bar or crowbar to carefully remove the old shock absorber bushings from the shock absorber and the control arms. Be careful not to damage the control arms.
7. Install the New Shock Bushings: Press the new shock absorber bushings into the shock absorber and the control arms. Make sure that the bushings are properly seated and secure.
8. Install the New Shock Absorbers: Insert the new shock absorbers into the upper and lower control arms and secure them using the bolts you removed in step 5. Tighten the bolts until they are snug.
9. Reinstall the Brake Caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper and secure it using the bolts you removed in step 4.
10. Reinstall the Wheel and Tire: Reinstall the wheel and tire on the vehicle and lower the vehicle using the jack stands. Tighten the lug nuts securely.
11. Test the Suspension: Once the installation is complete, test the suspension by bouncing on the front end of the vehicle. The suspension should move smoothly and evenly.
12. Take the Vehicle for a Test Drive: Take your MGB for a test drive to check the performance of the new shock absorbers and ensure they are functioning properly.
Remember to follow the instructions provided in the shop manual for your specific vehicle as there may be slight variations in the procedure.
