I need to replace the shocks/struts on my 2005 Envoy SLT (has approximately 110,000 so well overdue) and have a couple of questions:
1. I have done some research and it sounds like the Bilstein are best. How do I tell if I have rear air suspension? I can't seem to find pictures.
2. It looks like the rears are easy to do. Do I need to buy anything besides the shocks themselves? Any replacement mounts, etc?
3. Just how hard are the front struts to replace? I know that the struts have to be removed from the springs which require a special tool and can be dangerous. I have worked on cars a lot (brakes, spark plugs, thermostat, alternator etc) but never worked with shocks/struts. I was thinking of removing the struts themselves, and then taking them to a shop to have the springs removed and reinstalled on the struts. Does that sound like a decent plan? Any idea on costs for spring swap? Do the springs ever need to be replaced?
4. What else needs to be purchased and replaced on the fronts?
5. How long would both the front and back take?
Thanks in advance!
1. I have done some research and it sounds like the Bilstein are best. How do I tell if I have rear air suspension? I can't seem to find pictures.
2. It looks like the rears are easy to do. Do I need to buy anything besides the shocks themselves? Any replacement mounts, etc?
3. Just how hard are the front struts to replace? I know that the struts have to be removed from the springs which require a special tool and can be dangerous. I have worked on cars a lot (brakes, spark plugs, thermostat, alternator etc) but never worked with shocks/struts. I was thinking of removing the struts themselves, and then taking them to a shop to have the springs removed and reinstalled on the struts. Does that sound like a decent plan? Any idea on costs for spring swap? Do the springs ever need to be replaced?
4. What else needs to be purchased and replaced on the fronts?
5. How long would both the front and back take?
Thanks in advance!