Shocks Headache

[Bigdaddy_2]

Started to remove old shocks and first nut I turned broke off. UGH! It's the bolt welded to the frame on the left rear wheel. Can this be replaced with a bolt through the frame in lieu of the welded version?

[Minno]

I'd get a new one welded on. I'd be afraid of a bolt through the frame working loose.

My 2 cents.

[blickcd]

Been there and done that, and I'll try to describe my repair best as I can. If I can find a photo of that job I'll post it later.

First I cut off the remaining stub with a pneumatic cut-off tool. There will still be a raised round spot on the frame.

I center punched that round area and drilled it out to whatever diameter that is for the bolt you need for the nut that holds the shock on. Note that I drilled in several stages, using progressively larger bits.

I inserted a heavy grade bolt of the proper diameter from the inside of the frame, poking out. I placed a bushing/sleeve over bolt in order to create that larger diameter smooth surface. The inside of the sleeve fits the diameter of bolt and the outside diameter is the proper size to fit the hole in the end of the shock. I think I had to cut the sleeve to length but the ID and OD required are an off the shelf item. Use the regular nuts and washers to put the shocks back on. I also suggest a little anti-seize compound on the threads.

I did this maybe six years and thousands of miles ago or more. The ride is good, shocks are still on, and there is no apparent weakening of the frame. If you have a welder, or know someone who does and they will do the job for you, once you got the bolt in place I suppose they could weld it to make the joint solid metal, but given my results that is probably overkill.

Christopher

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Bigdaddy_2

Started to remove old shocks and first nut I turned broke off. UGH! It's the bolt welded to the frame on the left rear wheel. Can this be replaced with a bolt through the frame in lieu of the welded version?

I would not suggest that a bolt be used.

The shock studs are available and obviously cannot loosen up like a bolt can.

Andy

[Bigdaddy_2]

Thanks for the quick come back. What a great place for finding answers.

[blickcd]

Here are some photos from when I made the repair back in 2008.

You will see the broken mount cut off with the frame drilled and ready for the bolt.

The hardware used. I think one washer is missing in that photo.

The shock installed. It was not as I remembered, only difference being that the bolt was inserted from the outboard side and the nut is on the inside of the frame.

Christopher

[featherbedder]

If drilled out used bolt w/nylock nut plus [over kill red thread locker] will not come loose. I have used bolts wnylock nuts on my racing motor cycles at high speeds never had one come loose on dirt tracks more severe than road shocks

[Sneakinup]

I broke three of them removing the shocks/axles. Went to NAPA auto parts and bought shock bolts. Cut off the balance of the busted stud, drilled new holes, and put on the new shock bolts. Pretty simple.