Coilover Install Fox 2.5 Questions

I'm getting ready to install Fox 2.5 remote reservoir shocks in the front of my 2016 Crewmax 4x4. I have watched enough videos and understand I also need to get it aligned afterwards. The Fox directions call for removing lower tie rod and UCA knuckle bolt, sway bars, and then remove. When I get the new shocks installed should wait to tighten all the suspension bolts when the tires are back on and on the ground? I'm going to do my best to not take the LCA cam bolts loose and follow Fox directions but I see some say to tighten when weight is on.

 

Yup.
Always tighten down suspension components when loaded.

 

I just did this. There’s no need to remove the lower tie rod. You can disconnect the UCA from the knuckle or leave it and disconnect the lower ball joint assembly to fit the coilover in there. I’ve done it both ways, and both required me to loosen the LCA bolts to move the lower control arm down to fit.

There are a few vids on youtube that help, too.

 

Do yourself a favor and loosen the UCA bolt at the spindle, but do not remove it. Remove the two lower ball joint bolts at the hub and loosen the LCA.

By keeping the spindle connected to the UCA, you run less risk of the hub falling over and pulling the axle out.

 

Did you not loosen the cam bolts after taking the two lower ball joints out? I've heard those two bolts are a pain to get back in.

 

Youll need to loosen the LCA bolts regardless. The two lower ball joint bolts is not a problem to get back in. Use the jack to raise it back up. Your LCA bolts will still be loose, so it will move up into place a lot easier than you think.

 

Besides the shock bolts, you can just disconnect UCA from knuckle and sway link. Then use a ratchet strap around LCA to opposite wheel and ratchet down till there’s enough room to work, it will hold it for you until done, then release. No need to mess with LCA bolts.

 

Like Danman said, you can use a jack to raise it back up. It took some finagling the few times I've done it, but it's not that bad. And this might've been said earlier, but make sure you get a front end alignment once it's all done. You might have to get it done a second time after driving it around a week or two in case the coil springs settle a bit.

 

I like putting the truck on ramps to get under and torque all the bolts when done. Like someone else said, loosen the lower spindle bolts but dont remove them, by loosening them youll get an extra half inch or so.

I wonder if lowering the collars on the shocks would help? Then turning them back to the spot after install? Anyone done that?