can't get springs off shocks
 

I really have done a search on this, and felt even dumber afterward, I have looked at the factory service manual, I think I am following the directions, but every time I try to loosen the bolt on the dampening rod, the whole rod turns, even if i attempt this with the mounting plate bolted in. please offer a suggestion,

you need an air gun. I really hope you are using a spring compresser as well....

Ditto and ditto.

PaulC

take vise grips and hold the shock really hard then thry it it works for me every time

You don't need an air wrench.

You need to break loose and loosen a little bit when the shock is still mounted in the car. Just loosen the nut a LITTLE BIT! DO NOT REMOVE IT COMPLETELY WHILE IT IS MOUNTED TO THE CAR.

You can also use vice grips to hold the shock rod. You cannot damage the shock though, so you need to put something between the jaws of the pliers and the shock rod. Wood, plastic, rubber, whatever. Also try to use the pliers as close to the threaded end of the rod.
IF YOU DAMAGE THE SHOCK ROD AND IT COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE SEALS OF THE SHOCK IT WILL RUIN THE SEALS AND HENCE THE SHOCK. So be careful.

The first method is the best one and has worked for me in the past several times.

And yes a spring compressor, a pair actually, is absolutely necessary. I have taken the springs off without compressing them, but this is not the best idea. You have to have compressors to put the assembly together.

uggg...

I was hoping not to hear I'd have to grip the shock rod, even with something soft.

I'm installed a GROUND CONTROL coilovers kit, which requires removing the strut top to install ontop of the Tokico shocks :(