V70R C4 Shock Replacement

[Dave W]

I am trying to replace the rear shocks. I have installed the new shock into the top mount which I removed from the car. The assembly will not line up with the bottom pin or top mount holes. Is there a part of the process I am missing or have I assembled it in the wrong order. Perhaps the top mount should be left in place and the parts mated to the top mount. I just cannot get it all to fit I feel like I am missing something. Does anyone know the process for reassembly?

[- Pete -]

You should be able to align the spring with the rubber insulator that sits inside the aluminum top-hat the same as it was aligned with the old shock/same configuration as when you removed it from the car. Just look closely at the rubber; it’ll be obvious where it rested against the top-had and also where the spring rested against the rubber.

For the bottom mount, you will need to use a come-ahh-long to “scissor” the rear control arms towards the floor. You may also need to use the end of a ratchet to “turn” the bottom of the strut mount so it aligns with the dowel/lower mount on the control arm. Once it aligns, you will likely need to pound it on with a rubber mallet or dead blow. There’s not much about the process that is truly enjoyable. Just don’t get all worked up, it’ll go back together as before with some patience & a fresh outlook after a break.