Problem replacing rear shocks - '06 SV6/Uplander

[RustyMutt54521]

Parts stores list the Monroe MA824 as the correct rear shock for the '06 (with leveling suspension), but it won't fit. The van has a large stud/nut that holds the lower part of the shock, and the stud has a considerably larger diameter than the hole in the shock. The end of the shock is probably a good 1/8" too narrow to slide over the mounting stud.

Has anyone else encountered this? I checked a second pair of shocks from another local parts store and they were the same size and consequently wouldn't work either.

Use a different brand? If so, what? Is this the wrong shock model?

Guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Dave

[JabbaTHutt]

Try going up or down a year.

My 03 has the load leveling on it and the sensor for it is from 2004.

Of course I am not going to spend $500 to replace it then another $200 for shocks.

I am just going to put on normal shocks.

[RustyMutt54521]

The online catalogs indicate the Monroe MA824 is used from 2005-2009, and even on the previous model.

I've taken pics of the differences in the shocks. Feel free to take a look. http://home.comcast.net/~rustymutt/terraza/index.htm

I emailed Monroe but haven't received a response. I'm just not sure what's up.

Dave

[dewaynep]

Looks to me like you need a set of MA826, available at your local FLAPS. The ma824 is for front wheel drive, the ma826 is for AWD and looks just like what you are looking for. I wouldn't have known if you didn't post the pics though.
Edit, It looks like they should be available at your local NAPA, I couldn't find them on the 'Zone's website. They are pricey too, almost twice as much as the ma824s.

[RustyMutt54521]

dewaynep - you hit the nail on the head.

The MA824 is listed as "requires additional air kit".
The MA826 is listed as "includes air kit" and cost over 50% more.

I incorrectly assumed the only difference is one had the air hose kit and the other didn't. The shocks themselves are different, with the MA826 being identical to what was on my van.

I was able to exchange the shocks and put them on this past weekend without problems. They seem identical to what came off, and I was able to reuse the existing air hoses and connectors without needing to open the air hose kit at all.

BTW, my van is FWD and not AWD... I'm not sure how one would know which shock to use without looking first. It's an '06 with the larger 3.9L and 6-bolt lug pattern for the wheels, so perhaps that affects things.

Thanks for the guidance ... I hope this helps others as well.
Dave