Got the car back from paint, and have started reassembly. I've installed the front shocks and have now moved on to the rear while I wait for additional parts to arrive. Manual says they should be torqued to 15-25 ftlbs. What's the easiest way to prevent the shock body from rotating while trying to do this without damaging it?

 

i've never worried too much about the torque rating just done them till the rubbers start to bulge.

either get a mate to hold them underneath the car while you do them up (no tools required - can hold them by hand) or put a pair of locking pliers right up under the floor pan if you need to do them by yourself.

 

You might look at the top of stud on the shock, some brands have a hex head machined into it that you can stick a wrench on.

 

+1 with Aussie

 

The end of the shaft can be held with a special socket or even carefully with vise grips while you turn the nut. Once the rubber expands, it helps hold the shaft from turning. I wouldn't worry about the toque though. Just tighten it until the rubber expands to the size of the washer.

 

true, but access for a wrench is pretty limited if you are holding the top of the shock with vise grips or similar.

borrow the neighbor's kid. its a 2 minute per side assist worth one can of cold Coke

 

Gotta love a wife that'll help you with stuff like this...

 

hahaha...my wife would rather stab herself in the eyes with knitting needles

 

Thats funny! mine helps "Reluctantly"