Shocks

[RonS]

Check your shocks, When greasing my suspension bolts I found the bottom bracket broken off and the shock just flopping. This weak spot has been posted here before, so just giving another reminder to other DRV owners. Shock was bent, so installed two new Monroe 555025.

[wingnut60]

How did you fix the bottom bracket? Have broken 3 shocks so far, but none from the bottom--all three unscrewed the nut on top and it fell out, then bent. Was very lucky I did not ruin any tires.
Joe

[RonS]

Took the plate/bracket and broken piece which was still attached to bent shock and had it welded. Will keep an eye on it to make sure it holds, we leave in the morning for a short vacation. You might try to use two nuts on the top end of your shock, then after both are tight put some pressure on each nut pulling them together. Hope I have explained this so that you understand, but it should keep the nut in place.

[wingnut60]

Ron,
I have begun using a locknut on the stems--too many times have had the nuts loosen. Also had the upper bracket on one break--had it fixed halfass only to have it break again. The second time I had a real welder do the work.
The original shocks sat there doing their job, but I dropped the springs to the lower mounting and the shocks would not work + they were trash by then. Got the longer 555025s and that is when the loose nuts started. Hope that I have it under control now.
Thanks,
Joe

[2blackdogs]

I too lost a shock due to the nut on the bottom coming off. After that I double nutted all 4 and have not had that problem since.
Shortly after that I had problems with the top mounting brackets breaking away from the frame due to not enough surface area on the weld. It was still under warranty and dealer welded 1" square tubes about 6" long to the frame where the bracket mounts and I no longer have a problem with that.
The past July the lower shock mount broke just like the OP mentioned and factory shipped me one ($20) plus UPS. Bought a new shock at NAPA.
If we go back to FT'ing again I think I'll replace the other 3 shocks.