i need to put my new kyb agx shocks on my 88 gxl, but i am worried about how much time it will take, i can do the front one day and the rear if i need to, i know i need a spring compressor but my qusetions are:
i am plannin gon upgradeding to racing beat springs in a few month but not right now, is it a big hassel to change the shocks now then change the springs later?
do i need to get the new bushings and all that also or can they also wait until i replace the springs?
will i need to have an alignment done after i replace the fronts, i know the back you cant really do anything to.
and finaly about how many hours will it take with no air compressor or impact drill, just old fasion elbow greese? thanks guys!

 

I did it that way. Shocks, then springs, all elbow grease. Front and back took me the better part of the day. If you're mechanically inclined, it's not a tough job. The hard part is getting the springs compressed enough to remove them from the shock/strut. I found that an electric drill/driver with a socket wrench attachment helped.

 

It all really depends. My front 4 bolts for the shocks were rusted in there and it took 4 hours to get them out with an impact and numerous other tools. Then again, on my friends FC it only took 30-40 minuts. The rears were roughly the same. It depends on how knowledgable you are at working on somthing. I would estimate about 1-2 1/2 hours at the least for all fours.

 

so i am going to need to remove tires and everything, and i am going to need an alignment after i change the fronts?

 

Very easy job. I did mine in one morning. I was lucky I didn't have any rusted nuts or bolts though. The tough part is getting the top nut off the rear shocks. I recommend you take off your rear speaker grills and speakers and before doing anything go to a local mechanic. Ask him if he can loosen the nuts for you with an impact wrench. I had it done for free. Then tighten them by hand and drive home. The rest is very simple. Oh, you can get a spring compressor loaner from Autozone ($30 deposit I think). Good luck.

I got some pics for inspiration.. the improvement with the new shocks is worth the sweat
http://photobucket.com/albums/v43/cprx7/Shocks/

 

Hi, I am putting new shocks and springs on my 88 GXL tonight as well. The main thing I am wondering about, is it obvious what you need to toss from the old auto adjust suspension?