How to Replace Shock & Spring Assembly 2015-2020 Cadillac Escalade

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to replace the shock and spring assembly in a 2015-2020 Cadillac Escalade. By following these instructions, you can simplify the installation process, as the complete assembly eliminates the need to separate the spring from the shock absorber.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Gather Tools

Before starting the replacement, ensure you have a clear workspace and gather the necessary tools:

• Flat Blade Screwdriver
• Pocket Screwdriver
• Pry Bar
• 15mm Wrench
• 10mm Socket
• 15mm Socket
• 18mm Socket
• 22mm Socket
• 7mm Socket
• Trim Tool Set
• T15 Torx Driver
• 3/8 Inch Drive Ratchet
• Torque Wrench
• Gloves
• Safety Glasses
• Floor Jack
• Wheel Chocks

Step 2: Remove the Tire

1. Use a pry bar or screwdriver to remove the center cap from the wheel.
2. Use a 22mm socket to remove the lug nuts.
3. Take off the tire and set it aside.

Step 3: Remove the Fender Liner

1. Remove the front plastic clip using a pocket screwdriver or trim tool.
2. Unscrew two clips with a 7mm socket.
3. Remove two bolts located at the under part of the bumper using a 10mm socket.
4. Unscrew twelve T15 Torx screws to detach the fender liner.

Step 4: Loosen the Sway Bar Link

1. Use a 15mm wrench on the top of the sway bar link and a 15mm socket on the bottom to loosen it.
2. Do not completely remove the sway bar link; just loosen it enough for flexibility.

Step 5: Disconnect the Shock Strut

1. Locate the wire connected to the shock strut and disconnect it by popping the safety clip with a pocket screwdriver.
2. Remove the harnesses mounted to the top of the strut using a screwdriver or pry bar.
3. Unscrew the three nuts at the top of the strut using an 18mm socket.

Step 6: Remove the Shock Strut from the Bottom

1. From underneath, remove the two mounting bolts securing the base of the strut using a 15mm socket.
2. Support the strut with one hand while fully removing the last bolt.
3. Carefully slide the shock strut out through the top.

Step 7: Install the New Shock Strut

1. Remove the nuts from the new shock strut's studs.
2. Position the new strut through the top mounting holes, ensuring the wire is not pinched.
3. Start all three nuts by hand to secure the strut.

Step 8: Torque the Strut and Reconnect Wires

1. Torque the top nuts to 37 ft-lbs using a torque wrench.
2. Reattach the wire harness and secure it in place.

Step 9: Reinstall the Lower Mounting Bolts

1. Align the strut with the lower control arm and insert the two mounting bolts.
2. Torque these bolts to 37 ft-lbs using a torque wrench.

Step 10: Reconnect the Sway Bar Link

1. Reattach and tighten the sway bar link until snug.

Step 11: Reinstall the Fender Liner

1. Position the fender liner back into place.
2. Start with the plastic push pin and continue with the other fasteners (screws and bolts) without fully tightening them yet.
3. Once all fasteners are in place, snug them all up.

Step 12: Reattach the Tire

1. Place the tire back onto the wheel hub.
2. Tighten the lug nuts in a cross pattern using a 22mm socket.
3. Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to 140 ft-lbs in a star pattern.
4. Reinstall the center cap, aligning it with the valve stem.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the shock and spring assembly on your Cadillac Escalade. Remember to have a professional alignment done after this installation to ensure optimal performance. Following these steps not only enhances your vehicle's safety but also improves its ride quality.