[sagacis]

I'm reviving this thread to add that JW's tips are exactly what I needed yesterday. The right side was no problem, but my left insert was stuck. I tugged and pulled and banged and cursed, but the insert wouldn't come out. After a 12 oz mechanic's lubricant, I re-read this thread and saw the tip about using a vise grip for more banging area. I put a box wrench under the nut on the top of the insert (which was hanging out of my fender) and banged it upward with a 3 lb sledge. It popped right out.

My addition of value:

JW says you need to vacuum out the bottom. I had to use a wire coat-hanger to poke out some bits, then when I put in the new insert and pulled it out, it still came out with bits of rubber on the bottom. I shone a flashlight into the roll pin hole and moved the insert up and down with my other hand. I kept cleaning until I could clearly see the notch on the insert through the roll pin hole.

Love this forum. Love my new shocks.