03+ front coilover question

[BigBiscuit]

I added an 05 Crown Vic to my stable this winter. The front needs new shocks, which on this model are the coilover/strut design. My searches on this haven't turned up an answer to my question, which is:

Once I remove the coilover assembly, compress the spring, and unbolt the seat (on the top), can i pull out the old shock by hand? Can I push the new shock in by hand?

Or, is it best to have a shop compress and remove the old shock and install/press in my new one?

thanks.

[BigBiscuit]

Now that I look closer, I may be making too much of this. I think the spring will lift right off the shock and there's nothing to "press in."

[mrltd]

phew, cause nobody here knows anything about the 03+

[BigBiscuit]

ha! well, i'll try to remember my camera when i do the job so i can document it and maybe do a short writeup for the next guy who finds himself in the same situation.

[mrltd]

That would help!

All I know is the basics, that it's a coilover setup.

You might have to compress the spring a little to get it on depending on the arrangement, but again, I haven't meesed with any of the newer setups.

[turbo2256b]

I have found out on the aluminum fronts the alignment is done using the inner lower control arm bushings / bolts