48 merc shocks
 

I have questions about the front shocks on my 48 mercury. Fully extended they are 18-1/2 inches, closed they are 11-1/4 inches. These measurements are longer than the after market shocks that are advertised. Questions about removal. The top connection is simple, just take the nut off and pull the shock from the stud welded on the bracket. The bottom of the shock connect to part of the suspension. I take the nut off and nothing moves. Is the stud part of the shock. I can't see any thing that looks like the head of a bolt on the other side of the shock. Is the lower bolt threaded into the suspension? Any help would be great

al

Re: 48 merc shocks
 

You should be able to drive the bolt out of the perch bolt attachment point after removing the nut.

Re: 48 merc shocks
 

The old rubber may be stuck to the shock stud. Spray some WD40- on the rubber bushing to see it helps get it to move. Once the upper is loose pull the shock downward to see if the rubber breaks loose from the stud.

Re: 48 merc shocks
 

I was afraid to beat on the stud too much because I didn't want to break anything. I took a grinder and split the bottom of the shock mount to expose the stud. I then took a pipe wrench and turned the stud a little and it came right out. I found that it was tapered just like a tie rod end. After much research I found that Monroe 32207 shocks will work.

see photo