[ds475]

well, i just got my shocks today (4 boge), and i decided i would start with the rear first. obviously, this seems like the best order of operations in my mind, because the back is obviously easier. well, not easier in my case...

the driver's side (rear) was not difficult, bolts were a little rusty (these were the original shocks) but i easily knocked them out with a hammer. the passenger side, well, that's a different story. bottom bolt came out with a little resistance, but the top bolt is rusted COMPLETELY with the steel sleeve within the rubber bushing on the top of the shock. i've gone as far as using a sledge hammer to attempt to knock the sleeve/bolt junction apart, but so far all i've done is f*** up the threads (i've decided that i think i'll just put all new bolts on my shocks). i can see the sleeve move within the rubber bushing and sometimes it just spins the rubber too.

ANY ideas of what to do to that son of b****? i was so frustrated when i came inside (i have to be at work at 7am tomorrow...) that i almost put a gun in my mouth (not really, but i was PISSED) i can't believe how much of a nightmare a simple shock replacement has become. SOMEONE please help me.

what do you mechanics out there do when something like this happens?

Nothing would make me happier than when i get off work tomorrow than to come to the forum and see the perfect solution.