Leveling First...Cognitos Later...Any Issues?

[navigator32v]

I just received my cognito bilstiens also. I am trying to get the stock shock out but can't. It seems I am missing some part of the equation. Do you have to compress the shock or remove a cv or a-arm or something? Any help is appreciated.

[Sewie]

Originally Posted by navigator32v

I just received my cognito bilstiens also. I am trying to get the stock shock out but can't. It seems I am missing some part of the equation. Do you have to compress the shock or remove a cv or a-arm or something? Any help is appreciated.

Raise the front end from the crossmember so the A-arm can droop. At full droop the bottom shock bracket should be free of the A-arm.

You'll need to compress the Cognitos to fit them them on though.

[navigator32v]

Thanks for the help. I decided it was free oil change time so the dealer said they'd put htme on for me on the cheap. I put the bolts back on and I'll let them screw with it. I've put in my share of wrench time over the years and decided anything worth doing is worth paying someone else to do. (joking)

[Sheriff]

Originally Posted by navigator32v

...anything worth doing is worth paying someone else to do...

Come on...where's your "Tim The Tool Man" spirit??

My girls (wife and daughter) have plans this weekend, so I am installing the Cognitos and a Magnaflow exhaust system. Modifying my "toys" is my form of therapy! I'd rather pay someone to cut the grass, paint, wallpaper,..........

[navigator32v]

I usually put in the wrench time myself as well. Unfortunately I can't fit my truck in the garage (the boat's in the way) and Seattle weather has been 35 degrees and raining... So the shocks are on, t-bars cranked, I just need to tweak them a little and it's off to the alignment shop.

[Sheriff]

Originally Posted by navigator32v

....So the shocks are on, t-bars cranked, I just need to tweak them a little and it's off to the alignment shop.

Let us know how you like them!

I got word Friday that because of a "computer error" my Cognitos didn't ship until Thursday and not Monday as they originally said. Well, at least the Magnaflows came in and I got those on!! I guess it will be next weekend for the shock install!

[navigator32v]

I should maybe start a new thread, but I'm in a hurry. Bilstien Cognito Report:
So I got two silver shiny shocks now dressing up the otherwise subdued undercarriage. They look sweet. I haven't been to the alignment shop...yet, but scheduled for next Mon. The ride is definately stiffer in the front with the t-bars cranked up 3.5 turns +/- ea side. It is still about 1/2 - 3/4" shy of level in the front and on level ground. On road with the bilstiens still a bit rough over stock, but tolerable. Lowered bumpstops would make a huge difference in a minor amount of swaying. The nose also "lifts off" a little during launch from a stoplight, but I drive a manual and am relatively aggressive. Now the good part--Off road. Kicks A$$. Took them on some really steep rutted hillclimbs, and it seemed to track really well, fire roads are confidence inspiring (see "turning off stability assist" and "hanging the a$$ end out"). Overall, the upgrade seems to be worth the money spent, but still wish I could make the front end a little more supple on the street. Thoughts?