02 Venture shock swap. Auto leveling for standard shocks?

[Monty66]

I know this has been asked before but some of the threads are a little old and don't exactly address my question. I replaced one of my factory air leveling shocks with a monroe aftermarket shock. (sorry I don't have the exact part number.)

When I went to install it the first problem was that the metal tube in the upper rubber mount was not as long as the original so I had to cut some spacers so that the top of the shock would bolt solid in the bracket.

The second problem came when I went to slide the lower mount onto the stud on the lower A arm (AWD). The hole was too small! I carefully drilled it out and got it on, but what a hassle.

Then I discovered what a bone jarring ride it is in the back seat. I'm very disappointed in how this all turned out and didn't even put the other one on.

Has anyone else run into this? I want to replace my self levelers with standard shocks now (for better ride quality), but I wonder if I'm going to have the same hassle. Has anyone done this swap successfully and is the ride good?

Any input appreciated! Thank you.

Tom

p.s. 84K miles. Just performed the dreaded intake gasket changeout. That worked well, now I think the radiator is leaking. sigh.

[Wr_guy]

I boought the stock rear air shocks from rockauto for about $250 for the pair.

I also recently installed a set of KYB struts in the front. They are much firmer than the wornout stockers but the ride is tolerable and the van van never handled better.

[jimslaid]

I replaced mine with regular Monroe and no difference really.

[lesterl]

Get that radiator changed out FAST, I rebuilt the 2.5l in my 89 S10 I had, epoxied the radiator thinking it would hold for a few days till I could get a replacement, needless to say It Didnt hold.

[63johnm]

I'd say you were sold the wrong shocks. you shouldn't have to perform all those mods to mount them. I replaced mine with Monroe Air shocks (cant remember the price, not that expensive). They went in easily. I just adjust the air pressure depending on the load I am carrying. Take in the shock you removed when purchasing the replacements to make sure the mounts have the same openings, etc.