How hard is it to change out the front shocks on a 2005 screw. Can it be done easily or is it a job for mechanic.

 

Job for a mechanic with the tool that compresses the shock for you.

 

I agree, unless you have all the tools you need. There are some large bolts and nuts and you need a heavy duty spring compressor to remove and reinstall the coilsprings.

 

what about on the older body styles 97-03?

 

97-03 is easy. Just remove the shocks. Don't even have to jack it up. Just turn the wheel as far as it will go to gain good access to the shock mounts. Biggest problem, both front and rear is the upper post mount. If rusted it can be a bear to get off.

 

As for the 97-03, I just did mine last week. The fronts were a piece of cake. No trouble holding the bottom nut on the upper mount with a wrench.
As for the rears, I had to grind 2 flat spots on the shock shaft for my vise grips to hold. That did the trick. Took about an hour and 45 min. to do all 4.