How to torque top nut on rear shocks?

The top of the shock shaft is very close to the frame of the bed and the shaft extends far through the nut for a deep socket to fit. So there is little space for a torque wrench. There seems to be space only for two wrenches; one to clamp on the shaft and the other for the nut.

How can I torque this nut when I can’t fit a torque wrench and socket? Using a crowfoot attachment seems like the only option.

 

I was thinking of a crowfoot too. Or just tighten it up until the bushing compresses out so that the outer edge is even or just ever-so-slightly greater than the "washers" that sandwich it. There's probably a much more "scientific" way to do it in that situation though.

 

That’s a good approach.

I ended up measuring the length from the top of the shaft to the nut of the installed stock Bilstein 4600s and matching that onto the Bilstein 5100s that I installed. It measured to 3/4”. Both shocks are nearly the same length. It was to me the logical approach with the tools that I have.

 

Sounds like a good idea, then check up on them in a few days!

 

That’s the plan.