I just purchesed Rancho 9000xl for my Jeep Wrangler JK, I just took off my bad shock from the right rear and It came out pretty easy, just a few tugs and a push with a screwdriver. However when I went to install the new 9000's it seems the bushing is a little wider than the metal bracket that holds the shock in place (its more like the collar in the center or the bushing that is holding it back from going in). I tried angeling it in different directions to squeze it in but no luck. Any sugestions? Can I prie open the bracket but the metal is pretty thick, all I need is less than a quarter of an inch and it will fit right in. If prieing it open is the best solution what would you suggest I use... Thanks

 

this is normal and you can widen the bracket a bit using a crescent wrench or pry bar.

 

I would not bend the bracket. Use a file and file down the bushing abit.

 

it will bent it you hit it with a hammer, then when you tighten the shock bolt it will bent back. don't use a small hammer, get at least a 2 pounder

 

If the brackets are square, I wouldnt open the brackets any larger for fear of compromising the welds.

Instead, file down the collar a little on each side to get it to fit. I used a dremel and filed down mine a tad and they slipped in easily. You might find that this may have to be done on all four corners, I did.

 

the amount of prying needed is very slight and far from something that would compromise your welds. if anything, the factory bushings are a bit on the small side and the brackets get pinched together a bit - all you would be doing is restoring the flanges so that they are square.

 

Thanks guys, hitting it with a 2 pound hammer worked, it opened it up and they fit snug. Thanks for your help...