I tried to change the rear shocks on my 2000 F150 a couple of months ago, and I couldn't figure out how to get to the top bolt. I plan on changing the front shocks tomorrow, and if that goes smooth, I'll give the rears another try.

When I tried, I could get to one side of the bolt, but the frame was in the way of the other side, and the nut kept turning, if I remember right. Any tips on getting it off?

 

I didn't have any problems putting a wrench behind.

Try removing the lower and pushing the shock out of the way to get a wrench up there.

 

I used a standard (not deep) Great Neck 18mm, 1/2 drive socket for the top nut. A deep well socket was too long. Even though it was not a deep socket, it was still plenty long enough at 1.5 inches. Put the socket onto the nut first then the rachet. The rachet will not snap into the socket, but it will still work. Use an open end wrench (19mm?) for the second nut below the shock bracket. It takes a while due to the limited space, but it will work.

This is with the spare removed, laying between the rear wheels with the truck on ramps.

 

Thanks for the info. I ended up changing the front shocks today, but decided to leave the rears for another day.

I didn't think about moving the spare out of the way and attacking it from inside. When I change them in a couple of weeks, I'll give that a shot. Thanks again!

 

when i did my 4 shocks the other month, i took off the wheels and it allowed access to the top nut. i put a wrench on the stud and a ratchet and socket on the nut. one side came right off and the other just broke the stud. if yours is that hard then unbolt the bottom and try to brake it off at the top.

 

That's why I ended up buying a set of ratcheting box end wrenches. Just for that type of situation.
I would also put some antiseize on the shock post so that if you have to deal with them again, they won't be frozen.