imported_jaysi

I've found some online how-to's on suspension for my 97 civic. I understand how the front shocks dissassemble and everything.
It's the rears I don't quit understand. If anyone has directions with pics and could explain a little more would be great.

I guess it's all the talk about lower/upper control arms and stuff that scaring me. I should get me a Helms or a hanes manual...

1.8 HB

Let me say a few things first.

Spring install - NOTHING TO BE SCARED OF!

Now, for the rear. All you gotta do is take off a few bolts and you are ready to go.

After taking off the wheel you will see how the shock is connected to the lower control arm. In order to take out the shock you can take different routes.

Basically you have to disconnect 3 pieces to make this easy.

1. Unbolt the shock from the lower control arm where it connect. It's pretty straight forward. It's just one bolt...don't pull it all the way out. Just pull it enough so you know it's out and you don't need to unbolt anymore.

2. Disconnect the shock from the shock towers. Meaning, in your trunk there are 2x14mm nuts i believe (can't remember this, haven't done it in a while).

3. Go back under the car and disconnect the lower control arm where it connects to the subframe...there is a long bolt just like at the shock/lca point. Take that one out...then pull out the bolt you left hanging at the shock and lca and the shock/spring assembly will come right out with a little bit of moving around and force.

This is how it is on 5th gen civics, but i would assume that it should be fine.

One problem you might run into is the bolt that connects the lca and shock, it could be seized. Make sure you try taking that bolt out before you do anything. If it is seized go to a shop and get it taken care of.

If i have forgotten anything, please feel to add whatever you guys want.

1.8 HB

I forgot to add that you need a spring compressor which you can get at Canadian Tire for free with a $100 deposit.